This is our review of Takadaya Nishi‑Chiba Station (Maps), visited in January 2026.
Located right in front of Nishi-Chiba Station, just beside the south gate of Chiba University, Takadaya Nishi-Chiba Ekimae (高田家 西千葉駅) is a Chinese fast-food restaurant specializing in málàtàng (spicy herbal hotpot soup) and ròu jiā mó (Chinese meat-filled flatbread). Opened in the difficult period of April 2020 amidst the pandemic, the shop has become a local favorite, cherished by students for its authentic flavors brought by its Chinese owner.
Concept and Beginnings
Takadaya draws inspiration from Taiwanese and Chinese street food, focusing on medicinal málàtàng soups and ròu jiā mó (often called a Chinese burger). The restaurant was originally a bubble tea shop that was remodeled into a casual eatery offering quick, healthy meals for students and office workers in Nishi-Chiba. Inside, the cozy yet spotless space features seven counter seats and eight table seats, plus a convenient QR code ordering system and takeout option. On weekdays, lines often form at lunchtime—proof of its growing popularity.
The Lunchtime Appeal
Arriving around opening at 11 a.m., you’ll find the place lively with students and locals. Ordering via touch panel is quick, and within 15–20 minutes, steaming-hot dishes are served. With prices around ¥1,000, the meals are budget-friendly yet nourishing—perfect for recharging after a long morning.
The Temptation of Beef Noodle Soup
One of the newest stars on the menu is the Beef Noodle Soup 牛肉ラーメン (small size, ¥980). Its deep amber broth releases a rich aroma of complex spices, balancing the umami of simmered beef with a gentle sweetness and a touch of heat that builds over time. The flat noodles are silky yet springy, soaking up the broth beautifully. Tender chunks of beef fall apart easily, while crunchy bok choy and fresh cilantro add vibrant texture and aroma. The broth has incredible depth of flavor”—a dish worth returning for.
The Depth of Beef Tripe and Vermicelli Hotpot
Another standout is the Beef Tripe and Glass Noodle Hotpot 牛ハチノス煮込み春雨 (regular size, ¥1,280, with optional cilantro topping). Featuring tender beef tripe in a soup filled with glass noodles, it looks creamy but tastes surprisingly light. The herbal bitterness melds with rich beef flavor, as the warmth of Sichuan peppercorns gently tingles your senses. The translucent vermicelli absorbs the broth perfectly, while the tripe provides a satisfying chewy bite. Mild in spiciness but enhanced with fragrant chili oil, the dish is complemented by fresh greens like komatsuna.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
Takadaya’s lunch offers an authentic Chinese spice experience that livens up everyday life in this health-conscious student district. The tender beef in the noodle soup and the chewy texture of the vermicelli hotpot stand out in particular. It’s absolutely worth waiting in line for—and next time, I’d love to try their ròu jiā mó or Taiwanese-style lǔ ròu fàn (braised pork rice).
