Solo ramen sanctuary w/ customizable tonkotsu bowls. A focused, authentic Japanese noodle experience.
Experience a unique solo dining adventure at this renowned ramen shop, designed for ultimate focus on your delicious bowl. Each meticulously crafted tonkotsu ramen offers a customizable experience, from broth richness to noodle firmness, ensuring your perfect slurp. While some find the US pricing steep compared to its Asian counterparts, many still laud the authentic flavors and customizable options that make it a must-try for ramen aficionados.
This Japanese restaurant specializes in tonkotsu ramen, offering a highly customizable experience where diners can tailor broth richness, noodle firmness, and spice levels. While many enjoy the authentic flavors and the unique solo dining booths, some reviews note that the ramen is significantly more expensive in the US compared to its origins, leading to mixed sentiments about value.
"The tonkotsu ramen is highly recommended, with options to customize broth richness, noodle firmness, and spice level to personal preference. The vegetarian ramen is also noted as a satisfying option."
Customers praise the customizable and authentic tonkotsu ramen, often highlighting the unique solo dining booths. However, some express concern over the high price point compared to its international reputation.
Important Note
Some customers feel the ramen is overpriced in the US compared to its reputation in other countries, with the cheapest bowl potentially exceeding $20 with tip.
"For those who want ramen served to them, this commenter recommended Ichiran, providing a Google Maps link."
Neutral"The user lives next to Ichiran and feels they have a great spot for tonkatsu ramen."
Positive"Ichiran is recommended for ramen, noting that even the queuing experience is similar to Japan."
Positive"The commenter is asking about the spice level of the Ichiran ramen the original poster consumed, noting it appears to be very high."
Neutral"The user visited Ichiran as part of their NYC trip. Another commenter inquired about the spice level of their ramen."
Neutral"The commenter suggested that all the places the original poster visited were 'mid' and advised browsing the subreddit more."
Negative"This commenter expressed confusion about the original poster's 'meh' sentiment towards their choices, questioning the criteria and who recommended them."
Neutral"This commenter referred to Ichiran as the 'Starbucks of Ramen', implying it is a widely accessible but perhaps less authentic or specialized chain."
Neutral"Ichiran is mentioned as a ramen option in NYC."
Positive"Ichiran is recommended for pre-theater dinner, noting that the NY special is unique and not available in Boston. Cho Dang Gol is also suggested for Korean cravings, with a caveat about weekend wait times."
Positive"Ichiran's vegetarian ramen is mentioned as hitting the spot, though the solo dining aspect is also a highlight."
Positive"The user states that Ichiran's Tonkotsu Ramen at spice level 10 was extremely spicy and overwhelming for them."
Negative"Ichiran is recommended as a traditional ramen restaurant."
Positive"Ichiran is recommended for solo diners as it is specifically designed for them."
Positive"Confirming prior points, Ichiran was cheap and an 'Everyman' ramen in Hong Kong and Japan, contrasting with its perception as fine dining in the US."
Neutral"Ichiran is criticized for marketing itself as a luxury brand in the US despite being considered the 'McDonald's of ramen' in its home countries."
Negative"This reviewer complains about paying $25 for Ichiran's cheapest ramen, including tip, indicating it's too expensive."
Negative"This reviewer expresses surprise and dismay that Ichiran's ramen is priced over $20."
Neutral"Recommends Ichiran as a comfort food option near TSQ."
Positive