1.
Chinese-style noodles; ramen (traditional name)
An older, traditional name for ramen — wheat noodles served in a broth. Still used by some restaurants, especially those with a classic or nostalgic style.
Before the word ラーメン became dominant, 中華そば was the standard term for what is now called ramen. It evokes a simpler, more traditional style of noodle soup — typically soy sauce-based broth with straightforward toppings.
Common collocations
- 昔ながらの中華そば: old-fashioned Chinese noodles
- 中華そば屋: Chinese noodle shop
- しょうゆ味の中華そば: soy sauce-flavored Chinese noodles
Related words
- ラーメン: ramen — the modern, more common name
- そば: soba, buckwheat noodles — a different kind of noodle entirely
- 支那そば: an older synonym, now considered offensive and rarely used
Cultural note
Restaurants that use 中華そば on their signs often aim for a retro or traditional image. The dish itself is essentially ramen, but the name signals a classic, no-frills style.
Related Words
Related:
ラーメン (ramen)