After a few months spent toiling away at the La Commune food court, Koji Ito finally opened his own place in the Guillotière neighborhood. In a space combining waxed red floors, looooong wooden tables and a hanging wooden structure, this former bassist for the J-pop band Azian Z devotes his time to his true passion: pork broths, made from locally sourced meats and stewed all day long in classic Kyushu style. The other day at lunch, our bowl of the famous brew that was perfected with some added spicy miso paste (the chef’s signature touch, but spice-free options are available as well) also included: loads of wheat noodles, chopped leeks, a few nori leaves and thin slices of marinated-braised pork, known as chāshū. Plus, the house also offers up some traditional Japanese treats to share with your tablemates: gyoza, mackerel stewed in miso, fried tofu, karaage chicken… // A.S.

FEELING THIRSTY? There are around 15 sakes to choose from, including a ginjo junmai from Bunraku (€7 a glass) and a daiginjo junmai from Hinomaru (€12).

PRICE: Set menus €14-16 (lunch), ramen €10.50 to €12.50, shared plates €6-14.