RAMEN SPOTS YOU NEED TO TRY IN NYC
Photo by JAN N G U Y E N 🍁
By Jenna Stolzberg, Staff Writer
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Over the past few years, Ramen has surged in popularity. Below are some unique restaurants that are serving up their version of the flavorful comfort dish.
E.A.K IZAKAYA
360 W 46th St // Manhattan // Reservations
Set in a long, narrow space, this subterranean joint is sure to stand out. While you’re slurping your delicious noodles and drinking the thick, creamy broth, look around and read the cheeky signs that adorn the walls. If you’re in the mood for something boozy, they also have a full bar.
Ichiran
132 W 31st St // Manhattan // Walk-ins Only
This unique franchise started in Japan in the 90’s, and increased in popularity so quickly that they rolled out locations all over the world! Instead of ordering through a server as we generally do, this dining experience is completely solo. Guests sit at single stall dining tables, with a curtain in front of them obscuring the kitchen. You choose your items from the form given to you, and then you press the call button when you want to submit your order. There are also two other locations in Times Square and Brooklyn.
Ippudo
65 4th Ave // Manhattan // Walk-ins Only
This classic ramen joint makes their noodles in house, so they are about as fresh as you can get. With all different types of ramen bowls, there’s sure to be something for everyone. They also offer all sorts of buns, ranging from the classic pork bun to the more unique shrimp bun to the super healthy veggie bun. There are also two other locations on the Westside and 5th Avenue.
TabeTomo
131 Avenue A // Manhattan // Walk Ins Only
This restaurant not only serves ramen, but also a unique style of noodles called Tsukemen. Known as “dipping noodles”, the components of the dish are served separately from the soup in order to keep the original texture of noodles. In addition, this restaurant also has a Megamori challenge, where one has to eat a 16 pound bowl of ramen in 50 minutes. Bring a big group with you and give it a try!
Ivan Ramen
25 Clinton Street // Manhattan // Reservations
Though their original flagship store closed in 2020, Ivan ramen has continued to serve up rich, flavorful bowls of goodness. Even before you get to the main course, you’re offered a number of delicious appetizers, like pickled daikon and crispy eggplant. In addition, they sell the ultimate ramen kit, for those who are looking to replicate the ramen from the comforts of home.
Marufuku
92 2nd Avenue // Manhattan // Call to reserve Mon-Thursday // Walk-Ins Fri-Sun
A classic style ramen joint that offers not only different styles of Ramen, but also many different side dishes. They are known for their authentic Hakata style noodles, which are much thinner than normal types of ramen. They also have locations all over California, including Del Mar, Redwood City, and San Diego.
Naruto Ramen
1596 3rd Ave // Manhattan // Walk-Ins Only
A ramen shop with more than just delicious ramen. They also have 5 different types of curry, a bento box with all sorts of unique items, and a platter of fried chicken. For those looking to save some money, the restaurant has a lunch special for 15$, where you can get an appetizer and a bowl of ramen. There are two other locations in the Upper West Side and Brooklyn.
Kame
330 8th Ave // Manhattan // Call for Reservations
This modern ramen place has made a name for itself in NYC. Not only does it have numerous types of ramen and unique toppings (including two salmon miso bowls), but it also has its own dedicated vegan menu with two different bowls of ramen. To finish off a delectable meal, try the matcha panna cotta, a take on a traditional Italian dessert.