TLDR
Silky, chewy udon noodles in rich, fish-based broths. A cozy, comforting Japanese noodle destination with multiple city locations.
Details
Renowned for its silky, chewy noodles and flavorful, fish-based broths, this noodle shop delivers an authentic Japanese dining experience [2]. Patrons often describe the atmosphere as a warm, comforting hug, making it an ideal spot for a nourishing meal [3]. With various locations throughout the city, including a highly-regarded Soho branch, it offers a consistent and high-quality menu for under $40 [1][2].
Food Overview
This eatery specializes in udon, offering a variety of hot and cold preparations that feature flavorful fish-based broths and high-quality noodles [1][2]. Popular menu items include beef udon, kamonan udon, and chilled crab roe udon [1][4][6], while the menu also features sides like gyoza and donburi [1].
Caveats
Some diners express a preference for the Soho location over the East Village branch [4].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About RAKU RESTAURANT
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Stuck In My Hotel For The Day What To Order In In
"The SoHo location is noted as being better in person, but it also delivers well."
PositiveFrom post: Coldest Cold Noodles For The Hot Weather Too Many
"The chilled crab roe udon was very good."
PositiveFrom post: Coldest Cold Noodles For The Hot Weather Too Many
"Offers a selection of excellent cold udon."
PositiveFrom post: Whats Your Favorite Preparation Of Duck In The
"The commenter mentioned the kamonan udon at Raku, noting that the Soho location is preferable to the East Village one."
PositiveFrom post: Wheres A Forlorn Gal Taking Herself Out To Dinner
"The commenter recommended Raku on MacDougal Street as a place that feels like a 'warm hug', with nourishing food and a calm, cozy vibe, sending strength to the original poster."
PositiveFrom post: Reccomendations And Thoughts
"In response to a question about choosing between Raku and Cocoron, this user stated they love both and the choice depends on whether one wants soba or udon noodles. Raku is known for its udon."
PositiveFrom post: Reccomendations And Thoughts
"This user recommended Raku, highlighting their beef udon noodles as the best available in the city. Raku has multiple locations, including one near SOHO."
Positive