TLDR
Home of the city's most beloved, chewy, hand-crafted udon and soul-warming Japanese broths. A must-visit destination for noodle lovers seeking authentic comfort.
Reddit Sentiment for RAKU HELL'S KITCHEN(based on 83 Reddit opinions)
Instagram Posts References
Raku is a Japanese restaurant that serves various noodle dishes. This post specifically highlights their Niku Udon, which is a hearty soup dish featuring thick udon noodles in a savory broth, accompanied by tender slices of beef and fresh vegetables like bok choy and carrots. The dish is visually appealing with a sprinkle of green onions and a rich, amber-colored broth.
Raku is a long-time favorite of the author. They specifically recommend the tantan as the best thing on the menu, implying that not ordering it would be a mistake.
Details
Renowned for its exceptional, freshly-made udon with a signature chewy, mochi-like texture, this establishment is a go-to destination for authentic Japanese comfort food [1], [2]. Whether you are craving a steaming bowl of Niku Udon on a snowy day or a refreshing cold noodle dish, the menu consistently earns high praise for its quality and flavor [3], [4], [5]. While most patrons consider it a top-tier spot, some diners have noted that the bill can occasionally be higher than expected due to additional topping charges [6], [7].
Food Overview
Specializing in Japanese cuisine, the restaurant is celebrated for its diverse selection of udon and donburi dishes [10]. The Niku Udon, featuring tender beef in a rich broth, is a highly recommended standout [11], [12], while the Tantan noodle soup is also consistently praised for its quality [13]. Diners generally advise that while popular dishes like Kitsune udon are reliable choices, individual preferences for spice levels may impact the enjoyment of options like curry udon [14].
Customer Sentiment
Overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with diners frequently citing the restaurant as one of their favorite consistent spots in New York City [8]. While the vast majority of feedback celebrates the food, some guests have noted the dining environment can be quite loud or that the pricing for extra toppings feels steep [6], [9].
Caveats
The atmosphere can be quite energetic and loud, which may not suit those looking for a quiet dining experience [9]. Additionally, some diners have mentioned that the final bill can be surprisingly high when adding multiple toppings to dishes [6], [7].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About RAKU HELL'S KITCHEN
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Looking For A Place To Eat Between Broadway Shows
"The commenter suggests this udon place as an affordable option within the budget."
PositiveFrom post: West Village Takeout For Someone Who Usually Just
"Suggests Raku as a comforting, travel-friendly option for someone feeling unwell."
PositiveFrom post: The Absolute Best Weekday Lunch Options In Nyc
"Noted for udon."
PositiveFrom post: Give Me Your Best Cold Noodle Dishes In Downtown
"The user recommends the cold udon."
PositiveFrom post: Is There Anywhere I Can Find Authentic Kyotostyle
"The original poster is inquiring about this restaurant as a potential location to find a specific Kyoto-style udon broth."
NeutralFrom post: Where Do You Order In From In The City When Youre
"Raku is mentioned as a good option."
PositiveFrom post: Where Do You Order In From In The City When Youre
"Raku is mentioned as a good option."
PositiveFrom post: Anyone Know Where You Can Find A Dan Dan Noodle
"The commenter expressed a liking for the Dan Dan noodle soup at Raku."
PositiveFrom post: Anyone Know Where You Can Find A Dan Dan Noodle
"The commenter suggested Raku as a place that might offer a Japanese version of Dan Dan noodles, known as Tantanmen, which is typically soupy."
NeutralFrom post: Where Do You Order In From In The City When Youre
"Raku is mentioned for its udon."
PositiveFrom post: Where Do You Order In From In The City When Youre
"Raku is mentioned for its udon."
PositiveFrom post: Toddler And Baby Friendly Ramen Restaurant In
"If the user is open to noodles other than ramen, Raku in Midtown is suggested as a great option for udon, implying it might also be a suitable environment for a family."
PositiveFrom post: What Is The Best Dish Youve Had In 2026 And Where
"This user recommended the nabeyaki udon from Raku in Hell's Kitchen."
PositiveFrom post: What Is Your Most Frequented Restaurant
"This user is asking for alternatives to Raku."
NeutralFrom post: What Is Your Most Frequented Restaurant
"This user agrees that Raku can be surprising when the check arrives, even when ordering the same items."
NeutralFrom post: What Is Your Most Frequented Restaurant
"While loving Raku, this user finds it slightly overpriced and notes the availability of good noodle spots for less."
NeutralFrom post: What Is Your Most Frequented Restaurant
"Raku is a frequently visited restaurant for this user, often chosen for special occasions."
PositiveFrom post: What Is Your Most Frequented Restaurant
"Raku is listed as a frequently visited restaurant."
PositiveFrom post: What Is Your Most Frequented Restaurant
"Raku is listed as a frequently visited ramen/udon spot."
PositiveFrom post: What Is Your Most Frequented Restaurant
"This user agrees that Raku is consistently good, which they find important."
Positive