Exceptional udon noodles and juicy karaage highlight this Japanese gem, a must-try for authentic flavors.
RAKU HELL'S KITCHEN is a highly regarded Japanese eatery celebrated for its exceptional udon noodles, which are often described as handmade, chewy, and outstanding in both hot and cold preparations. Alongside its signature udon, the restaurant also receives high marks for its flavorful karaage (Japanese fried chicken) and its pressed sushi offerings. While most patrons have a fantastic experience, a rare mention of undercooked pork suggests occasional inconsistencies.
Raku is celebrated for its authentic Japanese cuisine, with a particular emphasis on its udon noodles, described as handmade, chewy, and exceptional in both hot and cold preparations. The karaage (Japanese fried chicken) is also a standout, noted for its juiciness. The restaurant also offers pressed sushi, which has garnered positive attention. While most feedback is glowing, one customer reported a negative experience with undercooked pork.
"Raku is highly acclaimed for its udon noodles, with both hot and cold preparations receiving praise. The karaage (Japanese fried chicken) is also frequently recommended for its juiciness, and the pressed sushi is noted as a good option."
Customers overwhelmingly praise Raku, frequently highlighting its exceptional udon noodles and often recommending dishes like karaage and pressed sushi. A few negative experiences, such as undercooked pork, have been noted, but the overall sentiment is highly positive, with many considering it a top-tier Japanese dining experience.
Important Note
One customer reported receiving undercooked pork.
"Raku is recommended for excellent udon and is a good option for pre-theater meals. For late-night snacks in the area, Halal Guys or Adel's are suggested."
Positive"The user recommended the zaru udon and veggie tempura from Raku."
Positive"Raku is listed as a restaurant that has potentially improved."
Neutral"Raku is recommended for its Wagyu Udon (American Mishima beef)."
Neutral"The cold udon at this restaurant is described as incredible. It's recommended in a discussion about cold Asian noodles."
Positive"Raku is mentioned as one of the many restaurants suitable for takeout or a quick meal."
Positive"This restaurant was recommended as a casual dining option in response to the original poster's request for casual eats in Greenwich Village and surrounding areas."
Positive"The user agrees that Raku has better food across the board, even if Tsuru Ton Tan offers different flavors."
Positive"The user agrees with the general sentiment that Raku is great for udon."
Positive"The user agrees with a previous comment, stating that Raku is very good."
Positive"The user considers Raku superior to Tsuru Ton Tan and would go out of their way to visit Raku."
Positive"The user considers Raku to be arguably the best udon place, noting its previous inclusion on the NYT Top 100 list."
Positive"The user states that Raku is great for udon."
Positive"The user points out that Raku is the most frequently recommended place for udon, referencing a previous discussion on the subreddit."
Positive"The user, having heard good things, expresses interest in trying Raku for udon."
Neutral"The user unequivocally recommends Raku as the best choice for udon."
Positive"The user found Raku pretty good and thought it had better flavor, but experienced atypical mushy noodles on one visit and would consider a second try."
Neutral"The user suggests Raku as a more classic option for udon compared to Tsuru Ton Tan."
Neutral"The user highly recommends Raku for udon and notes that it has multiple locations."
Positive"A user recommended Raku, stating it is superior to Sushi Yasaka."
Positive
