Popolamama

Diners who have tried the carbonara have singled out the pasta’s pleasantly chewy texture, making pasta the natural place to start at the Hirai branch. The menu features carbonara with Yodo Egg Hikari and hanging-cured bacon, as well as a spicy red carbonara made with the same combination. Choose between a classic-style plate and a warmer, spicier option.

One diner who ordered the eggplant and hanging-cured bacon arrabbiata enjoyed both the chewy noodles and the sauce’s heat. It is a good option when you’re in the mood for spice, and it is also available in a half-size portion. Other choices range from seafood pescatore and vongole bianco to cod roe and Genovese-style pasta, giving you plenty of reasons to return and try a different plate. A diner who had the cod roe pasta also remarked on its generous amount of toppings.

There is more than pasta on the menu: options include a Margherita with a thin, crisp crust and pizzas made with domestic-wheat dough. The cheese pizza drizzled with honey offers a different direction, whether you want to build a meal around something other than pasta or share a dish at the table. Desserts include a soufflé pancake with fresh chocolate and iced catalana. One diner enjoyed cake with family after their meal; dessert with coffee makes a relaxed pause, too.

The Hirai branch is in Hirai 3-chome. Children’s options include kids’ pasta and a kids’ plate with a drink, giving families another choice when dining out.