Authentic Japanese udon specialist w/ handmade noodles imported from Japan. Must-try Karaage & unique broths.
This Japanese eatery is a haven for udon lovers, offering a variety of hot and cold noodle dishes. Diners rave about the exceptional texture of their handmade udon, imported from Japan. Don't miss the highly praised Karaage (fried chicken) or the unique Niku Udon. While most experiences are overwhelmingly positive, be aware that some have noted inconsistencies or a lively atmosphere.
Specializing in Japanese udon, this restaurant is celebrated for its handmade noodles, imported directly from Japan, which are lauded for their superior texture and bite. Popular choices include the Niku Udon (featuring beef) and the Karaage (Japanese fried chicken). While the cold udon is also a highlight, one diner mentioned issues with crab udon being faint and noodles soft on one occasion.
"The handmade udon noodles, imported from Japan, are a major highlight. Specific recommendations include the Karaage (fried chicken), Niku Udon, Zaru Udon, and Veggie Tempura."
Overwhelmingly positive, with customers frequently praising the exceptional noodle texture and unique udon preparations. A few minor concerns about occasional inconsistencies or ambiance have been noted.
Important Note
While overwhelmingly positive, one commenter reported being served raw pork, and another found the restaurant to be a bit too loud and hip, preferring a more low-key alternative.
"Recommends the Niku or Gyunan udon at Raku, and advises that the curry udon can be polarizing while Kitsune udon is a safe choice."
Positive"Recommends the Niku or Gyunan udon at Raku, and advises that the curry udon can be polarizing while Kitsune udon is a safe choice."
Positive"Finds Raku's curry udon comforting and recommends the Kitsune udon with chili oil and pork gyoza for its simple yet delicious broth."
Positive"Finds Raku's curry udon comforting and recommends the Kitsune udon with chili oil and pork gyoza for its simple yet delicious broth."
Positive"Inquired about recommendations at Raku, mentioning a previous dislike for the crab udon due to faint flavor and soft noodles, but enjoyed the tatsutaage appetizer."
Neutral"Inquired about recommendations at Raku, mentioning a previous dislike for the crab udon due to faint flavor and soft noodles, but enjoyed the tatsutaage appetizer."
Neutral"Suggests Raku for its phenomenal udon, noting it's good for solo diners and has multiple locations."
Positive"Suggests Raku for its phenomenal udon, noting it's good for solo diners and has multiple locations."
Positive"Recommends Raku (SoHo or Bowery) for the best udon in the city."
Positive"Raku is briefly recommended."
Positive"Raku in Midtown is highly praised for its Japanese beef udon, considered by the user to be the best in the city, with a price of around $27 for the niku udon."
Positive"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
