Authentic Japanese udon & small plates. Think handmade noodles, bomb Karaage, and delicate tempura. A must-try for noodle lovers!
RAKU is a highly recommended Japanese restaurant known for its exceptional udon noodles. Critics and diners alike rave about the quality and texture of their handmade udon, imported from Japan. Beyond udon, the menu features delights like juicy Karaage (fried chicken) and delicate tempura, offering a well-rounded taste of Japanese comfort food. While generally celebrated, it's wise to visit during off-hours as it can get busy.
This Japanese eatery is celebrated for its handmade udon noodles, which are consistently described as having an incredible texture and superior flavor. Popular dishes include the Karaage (Japanese fried chicken), noted for its juiciness, and various tempura items. While the udon is the star, the restaurant also offers other Japanese staples. One negative review mentioned receiving undercooked pork, which is an isolated concern.
"The star of the show is undoubtedly the udon, with multiple mentions of its superior texture and quality. The Karaage (Japanese fried chicken) is also highly recommended for its juiciness, and the zaru udon and veggie tempura are also noted as excellent choices."
Overall, customer sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the exceptional quality of the udon and other Japanese dishes. A rare negative comment mentioned undercooked pork, but this appears to be an isolated incident.
Important Note
One user reported receiving raw pork, which is a significant concern, though it appears to be an isolated incident. Another user found the restaurant to be too loud and 'hip', preferring a more low-key alternative.
"This commenter, who is generally not fond of offal, expressed strong admiration for Raku's Niku Udon, which contains honeycomb tripe."
Positive"Raku was mentioned as a potentially better option than Ichibantei or Ootoya for an anniversary occasion."
Positive"This user suggests Raku is a nice alternative to Udon West and likely serves better udon. They also associate Raku with a more current dining experience compared to the nostalgic feel of Udon West."
Positive"Raku was recommended as an authentic, not high-end option for Japanese food."
Positive"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
