Misen

When ordering Taiwanese ramen, the first question is how much heat you want. Diners who tried the regular version said it was hotter than expected—enough to make them sweat. Those who chose the milder American version found it easier to appreciate the sweetness of the minced meat and the savoury broth. Choosing a level to suit your tolerance for spice is part of the appeal. The menu also lists Taiwanese ramen called Italian, African and Alien.

For more than ramen, greens stir-fry is a good dish to consider. Diners described the greens as nicely cooked and coated in a garlic-rich sauce, making them enjoyable both as a break between bites and as a snack with drinks. Other options include mapo tofu, mapo eggplant and stir-fried clams. You can make noodles the centrepiece of a meal or choose several small plates for dinner.

Garlic fried rice is another tempting choice, whether as the main event or to round off a meal. One diner reported that it came generously dotted with chopped garlic, whose aroma lingered after eating. It may be best saved for a time when you can enjoy that garlic afterglow without plans the next day.

At lunch, one diner ordered a set of Taiwanese ramen with half a portion of fried rice and a mini salad—a useful option when you want both noodles and rice. Misen is a Taiwanese restaurant suited to a meal on your own or an evening of small plates with beer.