Unique solo dining booths and comforting ramen bowls define this popular Japanese spot, though some find the NYC prices a bit steep.
This popular ramen establishment offers a unique solo dining experience, allowing each guest to focus on their meal in a private booth. It's often recommended as a go-to for comfort food and is particularly well-suited for those dining alone. However, the restaurant has faced criticism for its pricing in NYC, with some feeling it's overpriced compared to its more budget-friendly image in its home countries.
This Japanese ramen restaurant is known for its Tonkotsu Ramen. While some patrons find it a satisfying comfort food and a good option for solo diners, others criticize its high price point in NYC, suggesting it's marketed as a luxury brand compared to its more accessible reputation elsewhere. The spiciness of their ramen can also be extreme, with one user reporting the spice level 10 as overwhelmingly hot.
"While specific dishes aren't consistently called out, the Tonkotsu Ramen is the signature item, with variations in spice levels available."
Customers have mixed feelings about this ramen spot, with some praising it as a great comfort food and solo dining option, while others find it overpriced compared to its reputation in other countries.
Important Note
Some customers find the restaurant to be overpriced in NYC compared to its international reputation and mention that the spiciness levels can be extreme.
"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
