TLDR
Exceptional, bouncy udon noodles served in rich, flavorful broths. A top-tier destination for authentic Japanese comfort food.
Reddit Sentiment for RAKU HELL'S KITCHEN(based on 81 Reddit opinions)
Instagram Posts References
Raku NYC is described as a hidden gem with unassuming black doors that open to reveal a pastry and coffee bar alongside a delicious udon restaurant. The establishment serves flavorful udon dishes, fresh chirashi bowls, and spicy tuna maki. The author expressed a strong desire to return to try their pastries.
Raku NYC is highlighted for its udon noodles, which are described as 'worth the hype'. This suggests the udon is exceptionally good and lives up to its reputation.
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 udon noodles that feature a signature bouncy, mochi-like texture, this establishment is a go-to destination for authentic Japanese comfort food [9], [22], [49]. Whether you are stopping by for a comforting bowl of Niku Udon or a refreshing serving of cold noodles, the kitchen consistently delivers high-quality, flavorful broths [11], [29], [39], [56]. Many patrons consider it one of their favorite reliable spots in the city, making it an excellent choice for both casual dining and special occasions [14], [23], [41], [55].
Food Overview
The restaurant specializes in high-quality Japanese udon, highly regarded for its chewy, mochi-like texture [22], [49]. Standout menu items include the Niku Udon—a hearty beef udon often described as a 'death row meal'—as well as Kitsune udon, and exceptionally light, crisp shrimp tempura [24], [29], [33], [40]. While the udon is the primary draw, guests also enjoy donburi dishes, chirashi bowls, and the Tantan noodle soup [33], [44], [57], [60].
Overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with diners frequently praising the noodle quality and the comforting nature of the food [11], [29], [41]. While most visits are excellent, some guests have noted the dining environment can become loud, and others occasionally feel the price-to-value ratio is impacted by extra charges for toppings [7], [9], [52], [53].
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."
Neutral