Ippudo
When I first heard about Ippudo, it wasn’t from my friends in New York raving about some new hot ramen shop. Nor was it during my time in Singapore when my friend suggested it was worth the wait. No, actually, the first time I learned about this place was on the plane. Foreign TV shows were all that was left after I exhausted all of the Hollywood movies. There was this Japanese show dubbed in English where they talked about this shop, now global company. The focus was on the owner’s dedication to making sure each shop was successful. From their signature menu to incorporating local tastes and styles. Like for the U.S. market they incorporated larger portions. Bigger cuts and bigger bowls. Man, we’re viewed as such gluttons and I don’t think I’m helping either. I mean after seeing this place while I was shopping I darted in.
It was late in the afternoon so the rush was gone. I found a seat easily and the service was well, attentive. However, I should mention that a few days later, I went to the one in Central and walked out because of the lack of service. But anyways, back to the Causeway Bay one. The interior was nice. Cushy seats. Plenty of decorations and factoids written around to keep you occupied. Didn’t take too long before my bowl came out. Boy was I a happy little kid. Hakata ramen, you’re alright in my book.
Ippudo
2/F, 8 Russell Street
Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
+852 2892-2387
www.ippudo.com.hk
Verdict: Good place and I’ll try the ones other cities.
Every table came with its own pitcher of warm tea. Not quite hot, but warm enough for you to be okay with it. That is, if you prefer your tea at this temperature. It’s very light.
A deep fried egg that keeps its runny yolk. Hell yeah! Wonderfully done Ippudo. I didn’t care too much for the sauce that came with it. It mainly masked the flavor. I think they can do more with this little dish. In the meantime, you’ve pleased an egg fan.
$28HKD
For you experts, you’ll find the Hakata style ramen quite pleasing. Not overcooked or too firm. This place has got it down.
I see why people love this place. Everything in this bowl was good, the pork, the pork belly, the egg, the noodles, the broth. There’s no mistaken their expertise in making a good bowl of ramen. Yet, I’m not sure why it doesn’t stack up to my all time favorite ramen shops. Maybe the proteins need a little more attention to detail. Like, give me a good char or more of that brown braise. Dunno. Don’t get me wrong, this was still a solid bowl.
$92HKD
As with many Ramen shops I see these days, there’s the usual table seating then there’s the communal seating. Large tables made for those solo eaters, like me, to grab a quick bite and go. Today though, I took up a whole table. The benefits of eating at odd hours.
Here’s the sides for your ramen, pickled bean sprouts, sauteed chilies, and garlic cloves, errr, not many left for me. Don’t worry, for you garlic lovers, each table was equipped with a garlic press.