When Japanese food comes to mind, most people think of sushi or teriyaki. But true food lovers know that Japanese cuisine has a lot more to offer than these two dishes. In fact, Japanese cuisine includes a wide variety of foods, including the commonly well-known tasty and flavorsome Japanese ramen noodles. One of the best spots to experience tonkotsu ramen outside of Japan is ICHIRAN Ramen, located right in Manhattan at the heart of New York City’s Times Square area at 152 W 49th St.
ICHIRAN Ramen is a renowned Japanese food chain that has built a loyal following across the globe for one reason: it takes ramen seriously. Their signature dish, tonkotsu ramen, features a silky, pork-based broth that is simmered for hours to develop a deep, umami-rich flavor. Combined with tender noodles and customizable toppings, every bowl delivers a comforting, unforgettable experience.
At the entrance of the establishment, you will be greeted and welcomed by the waiters and other staff of the restaurant, who will make your dining experience as enjoyable as possible. Ordering the dishes is a swift and quick process here, and you will have the opportunity to select your desired ramen and even customize the condiments you wish to have on your food. The customization menu is a major plus, as guests can choose their noodle firmness, spice level, garlic intensity and broth richness. The attention to detail is truly admirable and ensures that each bowl is exactly how you want it. Personally, I opted for medium noodle firmness and no spice at all, which is perfect for a warm, bold flavor without it being too overwhelming for the palate.
What makes ICHIRAN stand out, aside from the delicious food, is the unique dining concept it presents to its customers. The restaurant offers “flavor concentration booths,” which are individual dining spaces designed to help guests concentrate on the awesomeness of what they are consuming without distractions. This style of dining may sound unusual and bizarre at first, but once you sit down, you will fully understand the magic. It’s quiet, peaceful and deeply satisfying. You can focus entirely on your food and the experience becomes meditative.
But of course, no bowl of ramen is complete without the proper add-ons. ICHIRAN’s soft-boiled egg is cooked to perfection, with a slightly runny yolk that melts into the broth. The sliced pork that accompanies the tasty ramen noodles is tender and enjoyable, and the noodles are a welcome option for those who just can’t get enough. I personally recommend finishing your meal with their matcha pudding, which is subtly sweet and the perfect way to cleanse the palate.
In the end, despite being located in one of the busiest parts of Manhattan, ICHIRAN provides a calm, intimate space where the food takes center stage. The staff is welcoming and efficient, the interior is clean and minimalistic and the process — from ordering to slurping — feels thoughtfully curated. Whether you are a tourist exploring Times Square, a local on a lunch break or a ramen enthusiast searching for authenticity, ICHIRAN Ramen is a must-visit. It’s a beautiful blend of culture, flavor and experience that showcases the beauty of Japanese cuisine along with simple dishes that leave the deepest impression.
