Incredible udon noodles w/ handmade Japanese strands & exceptional karaage. A must-try for Japanese foodies!
This Japanese restaurant is a must-visit for udon lovers, with handmade noodles imported from Japan that are praised for their exceptional texture and chewiness. Beyond their signature udon, the menu also features highly recommended dishes like karaage (juicy fried chicken) and shrimp tempura with a light, crisp batter. While generally receiving high praise, some have noted it can be a bit loud during peak hours, and there was one mention of undercooked pork, though this seems to be an anomaly.
This Japanese restaurant is renowned for its exceptional udon, featuring handmade noodles imported from Japan, celebrated for their perfect texture and chewiness. The karaage (fried chicken) is frequently highlighted as a standout dish, described as juicy and flavorful. Shrimp tempura is also recommended for its light, crisp batter. One customer reported an instance of undercooked pork, which is a significant concern, but most reviews focus on the high quality and deliciousness of the udon and other Japanese offerings.
"The restaurant is highly recommended for its udon noodles, which are described as handmade and imported from Japan with an exceptional texture. The karaage (Japanese fried chicken) is also a standout dish, noted for its juiciness."
Customers overwhelmingly praise the restaurant for its outstanding udon and flavorful Japanese dishes like karaage, with many considering it a top choice. There is a rare negative mention of undercooked pork, but generally, feedback is overwhelmingly positive.
Important Note
One customer reported receiving undercooked pork, which is a serious concern. Additionally, one user found the restaurant to be a bit too loud and 'hip,' preferring a more low-key alternative.
"The shrimp tempura at Raku is exceptional, with a unique batter that is light and crisp. The commenter regrets not trying the oysters."
Positive"Raku, a favorite udon restaurant, previously had excellent fried oysters on its menu, which are now missed. The comment also notes that some coffee shops bake their own goods, and Yanni's Coffee is good at baking cookies."
Positive"The commenter had a unique experience at Raku in Midtown, noting the amazing food but also the unusual setup of five different couples sharing one long communal table."
Neutral"The original poster suggested Raku for udon as an ideal warm meal on a snowy day."
Positive"Raku is suggested as a Japanese/udon restaurant near Midtown."
Positive"Raku is an udon shop offering a wide selection of options."
Positive"Raku is mentioned as a place for an awesome meal, contributing to a great dining experience for a large group."
Positive"Raku is described as an overall good izakaya."
Positive"Raku is briefly mentioned in the context of cold ramen recommendations."
Negative"Recommended for freshly made Japanese udon."
Positive"This user identifies Raku as one of their go-to restaurants."
Positive"Raku is an Asian restaurant recommended for a dinner with a budget of $130pp tip and tax."
Neutral"This commenter, a New Yorker, considers Raku one of their favorites."
Positive"The original poster clarified that the udon noodles were from Raku in the East Village."
Positive"This user inquired about the origin of the Japanese ramen mentioned in the original post."
Neutral"The author and their parents found Raku perfect for a rainy day, appreciating the different broths and incredible noodle texture."
Positive"This user recommended Raku as a place for Udon, noting its location in the East Village/NoHo area, walkable from Gramercy."
Positive"The original poster found Raku to have a poor price-to-value ratio, particularly due to extra charges for toppings, despite liking the texture of the udon."
Negative"This user listed Raku as a recommendation for Tantanmen Ramen."
Positive"Found Raku to be a bit too loud and hip, preferring Udon St Marks as a more low-key alternative."
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