Ramen Newbie? Try this place and you'll wonder why you waited for so long!

Yes that's right! The worst kept secret is revealed! One of the places to get the various interpretations of ramen is somewhere in Japan. This place is called Ichiran (一蘭) Ramen. Unfortunately they don't like the idea of franchising outside Japan but recently they cave in into allowing one in Hong Kong but I'm sure it took a TON of convincing as Ichiran has been around for over 50 years. Don't get too hopeful on expecting one in the United States anytime soon :(

Their specialty is Tonkotsu Ramen and its soup is pork-based broth. Much like KFC, Ichiran's original red sauce consists of 30 types of spices and it's only known by 3 of their "experts". Their sliced pork is so naturally sweet and complements the broth and noodles very nicely. They claim that they have a special water filtration system in place to make their noodle tastes amazing and easy on the stomach and liver. I can kind of believe this as I have drank their broth completely on multiple occasions and never felt bloated or uneasy at all afterwards. For the health minded individuals, it has 0% trans fats!

On to the details, you have the ability to customize the ramen to your preferences by choosing the following:

• Flavor Strength
• Richness (oiliness)
• Garlic
• Green onion
• Sliced pork (shoulder meat)
• Red Sauce
• Noodle texture

They are so keen to detail that I was able to distinguish the differences in the above (richness and spice level) with my friend's bowl that tagged along to try this place.

Without a doubt, this is a must-try ramen joint in Japan! It is one of the best ramen out there.

Name: Ichiran (一蘭)
Location: Shinjiku branch, 新宿3-34-11 ピースビルB1F, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan 160-0022
(Don't worry they have a ton of branches throughout Japan)
Website: Click Here
Google Maps: Click Here

Order from a Vending Machine

Tickets are printed

Perfectly Cooked Egg!

Victory!