Da Beef wrote:Menya Goku
2207 W Montrose Ave
Chicago, IL
(224) 938-9982

Thanks for the Menya Goku endorsement. I was following this opening because it's near me. We went last night for v-day after your's, and other's recommendations.

My wife and I eat ramen pretty regularly, but we're far from experts or super knowledgeable. I'd say we've tried 6 other ramen places in Chicago.

My bowl of Goku Tan Tan Men was the
best bowl of ramen I've had in Chicago. Packed with flavor, and perfect heat level. Generally I prefer my noodles a little thicker, but these were still excellent. This is a great addition to the neighborhood.

We also tried a couple of the "sliders". Mushroom (panko breaded shiitake, Japanese bbq, Sriracha Mayo, and mustard); and the Ebi Mayo (tempura shrimp, greens, Sriracha Mayo). Both were excellent and more substantial than I expected. If Menya Goku was open for lunch, I could easily see myself sidling up to the bar and having 2 or 3 of the sliders. They'd definitely make a nice stand alone meal (and at 4 bucks each, a decent value).

Anyway, thanks again for the endorsement. We'll definitely be going back.

Speaking of Chicago Ramen...

Chicago Ramen
578 E Oakton St
Des Plaines, IL 60018

Recently opened.

Chicago's ramen scene is definitely odd. For such a food-focused city, we seem to have a problem with really making our mark on this dish. I'm not saying that as a bitter ramen cook, although i know the conflict of interest, more as a dude who sees the incredible prowess Chicago chefs bring to most dishes in the city and does not see that reflected in our ramen. Most of it is tonkotsu, often with mayu on top. A lot of it comes from pre-made soup bases. And a lot of it is available to-go. But there are some winners right now. And, funny enough, it's not because they make tonkotsu.

Menya Goku

Menya Goku opened last month, and they are a straight banger of a ramen shop. It's by the same group behind Wasabi, so their success is unsurprising, but the aesthetic of the store is more tightly controlled than their sister restaurant, very modern and bright by comparison. It's a small space, and they have maybe 4 bowls, plus some sides. The sides themselves are fine, not particularly noteworthy renditions of pseudo-Japanese dishes that you might find elsewhere in the city; brusselsporuts fried and covered in a sweet and tangy sauce, onigiri with plump rice and furikake, and ebi buns, always buns on these menus, holding crispy fried shrimp slathered in mayo. They ain't bad tho, an acceptable padding for your meal.

But the ramen... slaps. Forreal. I've tried four bowls now. I am a gross person. The highlights are the tantanmen and the shoyu, and these are easy contenders for best in show in Chicago proper. All normal bowls use Ippudo noodles, thin, straight, wirey noodles with big presence despite their narrow widths that cut through the soup. The tantanmen is heavy on szechuan spice, with big lemony notes and floral aromas, all while still being warming and rich from the sesame and chili oil that makes up this style. It's a dedacent bowl but without being overbearing. The shoyu, on the other hand, is punchy but in a more delicate way, a double soup of dashi and clear chicken soup, seasoned with soy sauce. Thin slices of pink-cooked pork placed ever so gingerly on the bowl, it have new-wave tokyo shoyu vibes. And the umami in this thing is crazy, my mouth salivating 30 minutes after eating this thing. It's easily the best shoyu ramen in Chicago.

So, yeah, this place rules. I hope it doesn't get completely mobbed out.

High Five:

I recently went to High Five ramen after a several month hiatus from the place. For a long time it was hands-down my favorite ramen shop in the city, with intense subterranean atmosphere, an incredibly tight menu, and a really solid, thought-provoking bowl of spicy tonkotsu.

Over the last year or so, however, I feel like the bowls have been inconsistent, the temperature wildly out of wack, the spice levels varying considerably from visit to visit, the toppings messy, the flavor scorched and one dimensional one day and complex and vivid the other. And I only order the half spice high five!

They were on point last Friday though. The soup was decadently rich, the plating was perfect, the chashu was tender and flavorful. It reminded me of what High Five was like when I first went back when they opened. If I had to nitpick, I thought the noodles were a little soft, and I find the lack of cook on the beansprouts a little odd, but the dish is cohesive while being unique enough to stand out from the tonkotsu madness that ravages Chicago. That uniqueness is hard to find.

They had a 5 hour wait when I went though. That's bonkers.

Chitown B wrote:Chicago Ramen
(in Des Plaines)

Had their signature Tsukemen and also their Red Miso ramen.

DELICIOUS. They just opened and are very small, and usually packed. Highly recommended.

I hit up this place after an O'Hare run (diverted after discovering Pollo Vagabundo is closed on Tuesdays and quick thinking back to a recent IG post by Da Beef.)

I had my almost-four-year-old in tow and we had an absolute blast sitting at the chef's counter (which is really the only seating.) He was enthralled watching the fireworks of chef at the wok station. The place was slammed but we were taken really good care of. Chef promptly brought the kiddo a bowl of unadorned noods (gratis at that.)

The kid also inhaled 5/6 pieces of gyoza which I saw popped out of the freezer, but were crispy and well managed. And he's in a squeezing citrus on everything phase (please don't call my kid a world class ass though), so the customary lime squeeze on the tsukemen tickled him as well (he also loves nori, so this was all around a huge hit.)

It was my first go at tsukemen and I really liked it. I've been turned off by the overly rich bowls of tonkotsu so popular around town in recent years, but this deconstructed format that treats the broth for what it is ~gravy~ works for me. The dipping broth was excellent, porky of course but a little smoky and fishy too. I was not offered the top off of light broth so I did not ingest the remaining 4 ounces or so of gravy, but I left feeling better off for it. The wider noods were great, perfectly sproingy. Chashu melted in the mouth.

Overall just a really fun experience, especially shared with my son!

This thread got interesting again already. I too am flummoxed by Chicago's obsession with tonkotsu. This style had mostly disappeared in Japan when I went last year (replaced by a lot of really delicious chicken shoyu) and was never my favorite to begin with.

Looking forward to trying Menya Goku even if I have never had a memorable bowl of Japanese dan dan mian, even at Michelin-starred Nakiryu, because the Wasabi group are pretty reliable.

I would also try another tsukemen, again another style that did not impress me in Japan, but Chicago Ramen is probably too far off the beaten path for me.

I honestly think that the obsession with tonkotsu in Chicago (and wider America, generally) is because it sounds like the most impressive preparation on a menu. "Pork bones slow cooked for up to a day" or whatever sounds better than how you would describe an expertly prepared chicken/fish broth, and perception of labor intensity holds a lot of cachet here. It's the same reason we obsess over the cooking length of BBQ; it tastes better if we know someone took a lot of time to make it.

Chitown B wrote:Chicago Ramen
(in Des Plaines)

Had their signature Tsukemen and also their Red Miso ramen.

DELICIOUS. They just opened and are very small, and usually packed. Highly recommended.

Mrs Willie & I went for dinner at Chicago Ramen, arrived 5:10pm (they open at 5pm) and there were only two tables open, ourselves and another twosome occupied the tables and by 5:15, there was a wait.

This was probably our 4th visit, I always get the Tsukemen and Mrs Willie the White Miso Ramen. We almost always share but I can't recall that we've ever shared here

Had a starter of Takoyaki which were terrific.

Chicago Ramen
578 E Oakton St
Des Plaines, IL 60018
https://www.facebook.com/chicagoramentky/
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A new ramen place opened in Chinatown called Daifuku Ramen, in Chinatown Square:

http://www.daifukuchicago.com

Rakkan Ramen, a plant-based ramen chain that originated in Tokyo, will be opening a location at 4926 N. Broadway in late spring

https://chicago.eater.com/2022/1/11/228 ... ttractions

Dave148 wrote:

Rakkan Ramen, a plant-based ramen chain that originated in Tokyo, will be opening a location at 4926 N. Broadway in late spring

https://chicago.eater.com/2022/1/11/228 ... ttractions

Opening August 22nd = https://blockclubchicago.org/2022/08/12 ... his-month/

Chef Kenta Ikehata on Thursday opened his third ramen-ya, Chicago Ramen Annex, at 1608 E. Algonquin Road in Schaumburg.

https://chicago.eater.com/2023/2/3/2358 ... rg-suburbs

Any thoughts on Gyuro Ramen? Daughter has requested birthday ramen lunch for herself and 2 friends followed by manicures. Trying to find a fun spot for both that are not too far apart.

I really like Gyuro, probably my favorite place other than Menya Goku. Both the beef ramen and duck ramen are good and the apps are pretty strong too.

Over multiple visits over the course of the last six years, I would have to say that we really have enjoyed Torino Ramen, https://www.torinoramen.com/ at 1162 Wilmette Ave. in Wilmette.

The pork chasu used on the ramen here is very tender and to my taste perfectly cooked. The broths are very deep and delicious, and the noodles are toothsome and not overcooked and mushy. The shrimp shumai are among the best I have had.

When they first opened they seemed to have some issues with less than efficient table service, but any such issues have long been resolved.

Dave148 wrote:

Chef Kenta Ikehata on Thursday opened his third ramen-ya, Chicago Ramen Annex, at 1608 E. Algonquin Road in Schaumburg.

https://chicago.eater.com/2023/2/3/2358 ... rg-suburbs

Nick Kindelsperger shows the love for this spot:

It’s not exactly the choicest of entrees when it’s 90 degrees out on a hot July day. But let’s just say it is February in Chicagoland, and bone-chilling weather surrounds us. In theory, what’s the most fortifying bowl of ramen you could try?

That’s easy. Make your way to a strip mall in suburban Schaumburg, where you’ll find one of the heartiest styles of them all — Jiro-style ramen served at the recently opened Chicago Ramen Annex in Schaumburg.

https://www.chicagotribune.com/dining/r ... story.html

We wound up celebrating my daughter’s 11th birthday today at Rakkan in Uptown. We liked how spacious it was. The three girls were able to sit at the counter while Jonathan and I were at a banquet nearby. Strawberry Lemonade and Yuzu Lemonade got the thumbs-up from the kids. Pork gyoza to share were light and crispy. The girls all got the kids ramen which was a good deal at $9.50 for a very generous portion of noodles, crispy chicken, and corn. They all added egg. Jonathan and I both opted for the Quartz broth - pork for him, vegan + egg for me. I found it very satisfying, especially the umami shiitake mushrooms and the noodles. Service was good.

Afterwards, we walked over to La Pâtisserie P and let the girls each pick out a treat. Audrey went for the Red Velvet White Chocolate Chip cookie. Friend 1 got a Coconut Cream Bun, and Friend 2 went with an individual Crème Brûlée. They were doing robust business. Treats were enjoyed.

I can also recommend Jenny’s Nail Salon.

Rakkan Ramen
4926 N Broadway

La Pâtisserie P
1050-52 W Argyle

Jenny's Nail Salon
1503 W Lawrence

Chicago Ramen sign spotted in Wheeling at 723 Milwaukee. Dr. Google brings up a Daily Herald article listing an early '23 opening. It also brings up the Chicago Ramen website.

Just visited Menya Goku. Was blown away. The tantanman was extraordinary. The place is charming and small and perfect for a little blast of peanuty spicy rameny warmth on a cold Chicago winter day. Must try for all ramen lovers.

2207 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
Phone: (773) 942-6701

bw77 wrote:Over multiple visits over the course of the last six years, I would have to say that we really have enjoyed Torino Ramen, https://www.torinoramen.com/ at 1162 Wilmette Ave. in Wilmette.

The pork chasu used on the ramen here is very tender and to my taste perfectly cooked. The broths are very deep and delicious, and the noodles are toothsome and not overcooked and mushy. The shrimp shumai are among the best I have had.

When they first opened they seemed to have some issues with less than efficient table service, but any such issues have long been resolved.

Looks like they have a sister spot that recently opened:
ICHI by Torino
3217 Lake Avenue 9C
Wilmette, IL 60091
(847) 728-0347
Tuesday - Saturday: 11:30-8:00 (7:30 L.O)
Sunday and Monday: Closed
https://www.ichi.kitchen/

It's across the parking lot to the east of Akai Hana.

Tori-no-Ichi is an annual fall festival which originated in Asakusa.
I believe at least one of the owners is from Asakusa.

https://livejapan.com/en/in-tokyo/in-pref-tokyo/in-asakusa/article-a0000687/

In the pre-COVID days, I used to regularly enjoy a bowl of tonkatsu ramen from the ramen chef at Market Creations in the Prudential Building. When that location closed, the ramen chef moved to Market Thyme in the Aon Center, where he remained until the location closed in 2020. It has never reopened.

I still crave this chef's tonkatsu broth- the best I've ever tasted! Unfortunately, I never asked his name. I've tried contacting the management at Market Creations through its web site but received no response.

Does anyone know the identity of this ramen chef, and whether he is still serving his delicious specialty anywhere? Thanks for any info!

Opening Soon:

Chicago Ramen
404 Lake St. (Hawley Lake Plaza)
Mundelein

https://www.dailyherald.com/20240125/ne ... mundelein/

Chicago Ramen is open at 1056 Busse Hwy in Park Ridge.

Real question is when is Chicago Ramen going to open a location in Chicago?

LOL that a thread about ramen, generally, in the city of Chicago also now denotes the name of the northwest suburban ramen chain of the same name.

And since this post might be camouflaged by this ambiguity, I'm going to break my rule to not make a negative post.

Back when they opened in 2020, I was really enthused by the tsukemen at the original location in Des Plaines. My 8 year old son loves the place too — perched at the bar watching the action eagerly awaiting his favorite veggie ramen bowl (which is actually really good.)

So it saddens me to report that the DP shop is in a state of pretty bad mismanagement. Without getting into the gory details, we had an abysmal experience there on our last visit (after another less than stellar experience a few months prior.) I really hope they can right the ship.

Jefe wrote:LOL that a thread about ramen, generally, in the city of Chicago also now denotes the name of the northwest suburban ramen chain of the same name.

And since this post might be camouflaged by this ambiguity, I'm going to break my rule to not make a negative post.

Back when they opened in 2019, I was really enthused by the tsukemen at the original location in Des Plaines. My 8 year old son loves the place too — perched at the bar watching the action eagerly awaiting his favorite veggie ramen bowl (which is actually really good.)

So it saddens me to report that the DP shop is in a state of pretty bad mismanagement. Without getting into the gory details, we had an abysmal experience there on our last visit (after another less than stellar experience a few months prior.) I really hope they can right the ship.

Very hard agree. Granted it was my first visit but it was by far the worst ramen I have ever had.

We visited Chicago Ramen for the first time recently - we went to the new location in St. Charles.

Chicago Ramen
2400 E Main St
St. Charles, IL 60174

We were disappointed to discover that the St. Charles location doesn't serve any of the ramen dishes that include pork that are listed on the website.

In the end we ordered the garlic edamame appetizer, a bowl of shrimp wonton ramen and a bowl of beef curry ramen. Everything was delicious - the Edamame was a real treat! The service and atmosphere were very pleasant. Overall it was a good experience - but I thought people might like to know about the menu.

- zorkmead

I was at the Des Plaines Chicago Ramen for the first time in June and it was the best ramen I have eaten in the city (depending on your definition of city). I have been traveling in Canada a lot lately, home of a very high number of Asian immigrants, and it was better than anything I ate in Toronto or Vancouver.

So I don't know what to say except I wish they would open one closer to the center of the city.

zorkmead wrote:We were disappointed to discover that the St. Charles location doesn't serve any of the ramen dishes that include pork that are listed on the website.

Did you ask or where you given any reason for this? It seems really odd, so I'm curious if it was temporary or a function of some other decision-making. Btw, very helpful post.

Thanks,

=R=

I didn't ask. The tables had a menu and 'Ramen Dictionary' (like the website), but the pages with the Tsukemen, Red Miso and White Miso Ramen dishes were missing (so they were offering Chicken, Vegetable, Shrimp Wonton (which is in the dictionary on the website and not the online menu) and the Beef Ramen).

Come to think of it - the Japanese Hot Dog dishes weren't offered either.

I noticed because I probably would have ordered either the Red Miso Ramen or the Tsukemen - so I was looking for those.

I hope that helps!
- zorkmead