Ichiran Ramen
Any Japan trip they say wouldn’t be complete without tasting a good hot bowl of RAMEN! And this is what I have been missing out since 2017! (I have been to the Kansai Region twice and barely tasted Ramen then!).
So this time, it is the first on my list! Ichiran!
I arrived at Asakusa in the afternoon and after settling down on my hostel, I decided to go to Shibuya and roam around. Luckily, it was very easy to find one just one, but two Ichiran shops nearby each other in the area. The first Ichiran Shop I visited had too many people and the queue is just amazing even on a slightly drizzling weather.
And around a few blocks (some 5 minute walk from this spot), I managed to arrive the other Ichiran shop. Anyhow, I was greeted inside by this machine that isn’t too new to me. I encountered a couple of these machines when I was still in the Kansai Region.
Because I am very hungry from all these travels and catching up the train, I chose the most special ramen type on the machine – Ichiran Select 5. This has the basic ramen with all 5 add-ons. I got the ticket and after a few minutes was seated and given this typical option for ramen customization.
I just had to wait a few minutes and I was served with my most precious! 🙂
Now, time to give it a review:
Broth – the broth is savory, and it is really a pork broth that has a subtle taste. I find my selection suited for my taste buds. Of course, you can always tone it down or make it stronger based on how you see it fit.
Noodles – I am happy with the firmness of the noodles and it is just chewy enough for me to enjoy the noodles. I hate soggy noodles so this one is a pass mark for me.
Toppings – the pork has a good balance of fat and meat, so it is really satisfying. The egg is also soft boiled so I find it suited for my Ramen.
Umami – this is a very important aspect of Japanese cuisine, and for some reason, I find the umami lacking. I am satisfied with the taste, but it did not leave much of an “aha” impact to me.