Wednesday, October 8, 2014

Return to Ippudo or how to dodge the long line for ramen.


Went back to Ippudo after I felt that the first review didn't do the place justice, given that they were really, really hectic on day 1.


Was here on a weekday, and again I went queued about 2:30 pm. The line was shorter since it was downtime.  When the server checked and I said "for one" I was immediately seated by the bar. The place felt different the second time, no TV crews so far (but the ABS-CBN guys arrived at 3:00), the ambiance, somber, and it was toned down from the last time, yet the crews still howl Nihonggo gibberish here and there, which irritates me to death. Perfect time to enjoy a bowl of ramen.


Shiromaru Motoaji (P375)

Ippudo's menu has three types of ramen -  Shiromaru Motoaji (basic tonkatsu noodles), Akamaru Shinaji (miso paste, garlic oil) and Karaka Ramen(super hot). These ramen you can put add-ons like ajitama/ soft-boiled egg, extra seaweed, or the works. 


Akamaru Shin-aji or "Red Sea Ramen" Php 390

Ordered the Akamaru Shinaji- this one has Hakata-style thin noodles with garlic oil and miso paste. Served with spring onions, kikurage and a lice of pork belly. The ramen is very fragrant and looks very enticing. Akamaru when translated means "red sea", this is probably the red miso paste that gives this ramen a slightly spicy kick. Noodles are firm and al-dente. Order this if you love a more flavorful ramen with a twist. Add some crushed garlic and a bit of sesame seeds and you have a winner! My new go-to ramen. Yummy!

Ippudo Pork Bun (P 100)  This is a simple cuapao, using a slice of chasyu and Japanese mayo.
One order is not enough and it was slightly "bitin"

Gyoza The gyoza skin is thin and light, the pan-fried gyoza is not tasty and not swimming in oil. 5 small pieces is P 210.

Was able to talk Chef Lee Jose after my meal, yes, the place was excellent and the first day jitters were gone, and so was the super kulit server from last time. Had a great experience and will be back.

Not falling in line for ramen, of course. 

Ippudo Ramen
3rd Level, Mega Fashion Hall
SM Megamall
(beside Sports Central)
(02) 470-1837

They don't allow reservations.
No takeouts. And everyone must
fall in line :)

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