Ippudo Ramen (一風堂ラーメン) review

Let's start this month out right with another ramen review :D

Ippudo has been highly praised and ranked as #2 best ramen shop (chain) in Japan this year. It even beat ramen giant Ichiran which ranked at #5 this year. Unlike Ichiran, which strives to displays its Chinese/Japanese roots, Ippudo goes for a contemporary, simplicity theme (it is very evident in their logos. Ichiran's logo, as well as their shops have a red and green while Ippudo's is modern, simple and white).

Ippudo's lights

The Atmosphere

When I first walked into a nearby Ippudo I wasn't quite sure whether I was in the right place or not. The moment I walked into the shop, I was surrounded by American Pop/Jazz music. Unlike most Ramen shops, Ippudo was very clean, spacious, modern and simple. The staff were very attentive and I was quite impressed by the servie.

Toppings/seasoning

Loving the toppings. My favourite was the sprouts... and I clearly wasn't the only one. As soon as customers left, I saw the servers taking their sprouts containers for refills... they were so tasty! The other two were sweet ginger and a special preserved vegetable from Hakata. I highly recommend their sprouts, it is well marinated and goes perfectly with their ramen.

I found the shape of the bowl fascinating

Tonkotsu Ramen

I opted for their most popular, recommended Pork Bone Soup Ramen. To my surprise soup base really reminded me of Fu Ryu Ramen's soup base/broth. They were literally almost identical with the exception that Ippudo's is slightly more richer than Fu Ryu's. Ippudo also has a bigger meat portion. I felt Fu Ryu's is much cheaper and worth every yen because we can get 2 free noodle refills, while Ippudo does not provide such an option. Fu Ryu is also cheaper as well.

I finished!

Regardless of the price, I think both are very identical. From the thin noodles to the broth. But in terms of topping choices, I prefer Ippudo's. Compared to Fu Ryu's Tonkotsu Ramen, Ippudo's Green Onion (nagi) and Fungus ratio was more balanced.

The ramen had big portion... it took some effort but I managed to finish my bowl! :D It was delicious! :D

Dumplings

I also decided to get some dumplings... they were nicely fried and were crispy but the inside was too sweet and bland. I didn't like them. For those who prefer sweet meat dumplings, you might enjoy them.

the table... honestly it doesn't feel like a ramen shop

conclusion

Not that it was a bad thing, I just found it strange that they didn't have the same feel as other ramen shops in Tokyo. It felt very contemporary. I feel their aim is to attract a younger crowd (younger = young career). This is great for those of you who prefer a quieter, cleaner, modern place to enjoy your ramen.

I really liked the ramen. It was delicious! It was really identical to Fu Ryu's, so if you are looking to save a few bucks (or yen, in this case), or you aren't sure whether you like Hakata style Tonkotsu ramen, I would suggest you start with Fu Ryu.

and... so... I saw this...

7 Eleven, Nissin and Ippudo

So... this is something that is slightly off topic... but... WHAT!?!?!? Ippudo is from New York?? That would probably explain it's contemporary style... but still... is it really from New York!?!?!? If anyone can tell me what is going on... much appreciated...

score: 8.5/10
website: http://www.ippudo.com/ (find one near you :D)