Edamamé, Oxford

This small restaurant is so popular at lunchtime that you often have to share your table with others. Although perhaps not very appealing at first, this can actually add to the intimacy of the dining experience. Simply decorated with the odd Japanese touch, the restaurant offers fast and friendly service. To keep things moving, only cash and cheques are accepted at lunchtime. The broths are huge and packed with noodles, meat and vegetables. With ingredients imported directly from Japan, this is definitely the place to come for an authentic, home-cooked Japanese meal.