BEST ramen I've ever had, and every new person that I bring to Rakkan says the same thing. I am a repeat customer, and they always have good new special flavors to try. Great vegan and vegetarian options. Also good sides and appetizers! Fun and tasty selection of alcohol and other drinks. Staff is very kind and helpful, and the ambiance in the place is quiet and beautiful. My favorite restaurant and the one I travel across the city to for special occasions! read more

I am so picky about ramen so I never have high expectations when trying somewhere new, but I looooved Rakkan Ramen! The quick service, nice drink menu, and loads of vegetarian options plus the option to swap pork for chicken are what won me over. I had the Spicy Quartz with chicken. Really flavorful and the noodles were delicious. I don't eat pork so I really appreciated being able to get chicken! My husband had the Ruby and it was fun to compare how different the two broths were. We also had a cucumber salad that I didn't take a photo of, but it was so artful and gorgeous! Overall I neeeed to come back. With so many non-pork options, there's a lot I want to try. Even the non-ramen entrees and sides looked delicious! read more

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I've been meaning to try this spot for a while! As a longtime resident of Uptown, I think a lot of the pho restaurants in the area get well-deserved love, but there are also so many other cuisines worth exploring. My friend was craving ramen, so we decided to finally check out Rakkan Ramen, located at 4926 N. Broadway, just off the Argyle Red Line stop. The interior is actually pretty cute and a little fancy, pretty much what you'd expect from a Japanese ramen spot. We went around 9 PM and were seated right away. Our waitstaff was also very informative and helpful when it came to navigating the menu. My friend and I both ordered the Quartz Ramen. She got hers spicy, while I went with the vegan option with chicken because I wanted more vegetables. Just be aware that choosing that option does cost a little extra. We also shared some karaage, and I washed everything down with a ginger ale. The ramen broth was really good. I got mine without the egg, but everything else blended together nicely. I do wish they offered a side of kimchi to add a little more spice and flavor, but overall, the ramen was solid. I really enjoyed the karaage. The chicken was breaded perfectly, and I loved the sauce that came with it. I pretty much destroyed my meal, it was really good! Was it the best ramen I've had in Chicago? Probably not. But it was definitely solid, and if you're in the Uptown/Argyle area, I think it's a good option. My friend enjoyed her ramen as well. She wasn't able to finish it, but she did pretty well considering the portion size. The price wasn't too bad either. Our total came to around $62 for the two of us. Overall, it was a pretty pleasant first experience. I'd give Rakkan Ramen 3.5 out of 5 stars. read more

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Pretty tasty broth but the noodles are weirdly thick and chewy and I wish they would do something with the tofu instead of just throwing it in raw. Not bad, probably my favorite broth but these two things are unfortunately major setbacks. Would be perfect with seasoned tofu and less chewy noodles. read more

Everything was delicious! The takoyaki was tasty but came out in an order of 7 so keep that in mind when trying to split. The ramen was varied and they also offered tsukemen which came with a delicious spicy broth. read more

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As you walk in, the restaurant is cozy, typical of a ramen bar. Would recommend to make a reservation as walk ins don't seem to be appropriate even during non-rush hours. It took a while for us to get waters to the table and to place our starter order. I ordered the spicy quartz with chicken which was very tasty but was disappointed with the singular chicken slice. I would return to try a different dish. read more

RAKKAN Ramen - Chicago Uptown - SPICY QUARTZ - Ramen Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Great ramen. Spicy beef gyoza were the show stopper. Excellent service; really appreciate the kind and prompt staff Inside is bright and clean and crisp with cool "bar" seating to squeeze in as many folks as possible -- you'll understand why so many folks want to pack in with your first bite. Can't wait to come back and try the other Ramen bases! read more

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Freakonomics could probably do an episode or a chapter about logos. I know for a fact there's one where they talk about people's names. You see, it was not my love for ramen that brought me into Rakkan Ramen, but it was the logo which seemed to convey a sense of class, upscaled-ness, and quality. With my visit, I can tell you that the salmon carpaccio (a special, IIRC) was superb. The rest, however, was uninspired. In addition to the carpaccio, I also had an opportunity to try a pork bun and an Amber ramen. The salmon carpaccio was fan-freaking-tastic. The fish was fresh, the sauce gave just the right amount of flavor without overpowering the protein, and the garnishes offered lovely crisp textures. This is something I would absolutely order again. The pork bun didn't do it for me. While they didn't skimp on the pork, the amount wasn't tremendous. Also, while it wasn't dry, it didn't have the melt-in-your-mouth texture that I prefer. The use of barbecue sauce and mayo was good and didn't overpower the dish (Kewpie has a way of doing that). I also appreciate the garnishes for crispness and flavor. The greens, however, didn't seem to be working with the dish, as if they were only here for show. Perhaps what is needed is a little bit of acid, maybe some pickled onions or cucumbers? Then we come to the ramen. My issue with this one was it was a little bit flat, especially with regards to the broth. I understand that a vegetable broth will not be the same as a miso or spicy pork-based broth. At the same time, some bolder flavors would've been done wonders. In terms of the veggies, no complaints there, though I would've liked a little more to add substance to the soup. The noodles were just fine, and the pork echoed that which was in the pork bun; not terrible, but also not amazing. Finally, there is the question of service. Considering the restaurant was practically dead at the time, and that ramen is basically Japanese fast food, my items took longer than I would've expected to come out of the kitchen. Not absurdly long, just longer than ramen typically takes in my experience. Final verdict: If I find out that the carpaccio has returned to the specials menu, I'll be likely to stop in. Otherwise, neither the pork belly bun nor the ramen made enough of an impression to warrant a return visit. This is compounded by the fact that it seems all of their ramens have a vegetable broth, which limits the variety. read more

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My wife enjoyed our dinner. I thought it was just ok. Maybe it was an off-night for me. We usually are on the same page. I think for me it was the plant-based broth which is what RR is famous for. I haven't eaten miso ramen in a few months. It was a chilly night and I think it just wasn't that familiar flavor I was yearning for. Having said that, I think RR is a fabulous alternative for anyone that is into plant-based dishes. The interior is clean. Sound dampening panels would actually help with the noise echoing that I experienced. Oh! I forgot to mention. You have to try the Crispy Pork Gyoza! I definitely hit the spot!!! read more

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I was excited to find that there was a RAKKAN here in Chicago after having a great experience at the DTLA location. Even more excited to find that there is consistency across the chain. The vegan spicy Garnet was just as delicious as the first time I had it. Tried the vegan gyoza too and they were tasty. Get the Yuzu lemonade! Brian, our waiter, was such a doll! read more

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I was a bit torn on writing this review because this place wasn't bad, but I wasn't impressed that much by their Ramen. They pride themselves on having a vegan broth which I guess makes Ramen more accessible, but give me that pork broth! The apps and sushi were great, but the Ramen, the main event, was really lacking in flavor. Again, I can appreciate the idea, but I just didn't like their Ramen. read more

Came here with my friend last night and split the new carpaccio salmon and each got the quartz ramen, we have both been SICK, Like sick sick, all night and all morning since. I ate only 3 bites of the carpaccio and barely touched the ramen, because everything tasted terrible, and I still got violently ill. Please avoid this place they need a health inspection direly. I'd love my $84 refunded. read more

Cute ramen spot that has some great appetizers. I heard about this ramen spot and walked by it a few times. I'm always hesitant with ramen spots because most places charge a lot for noodles. I would have to say this spot is average for pricing of their ramen. So not crazy expensive, but still paying something for ramen. The ramen itself were pretty good. I wouldn't say it was outstanding or amazing but if you want to eat some noodles on a cold day, this will do the trick. My favorite part of the meal was actually our appetizers. The takoyaki and karaage were delicious! They both are fried and breaded which can't go wrong. The sauce they both come with are also a nice added taste to the dish. I think what could elevate this place is adding tv's to the bar as they have great small bites and offer alcohol, but maybe they like it as it is. Plus then they don't have to worry about people hanging around too long or dealing with people drinking. Overall, decent ramen spot but the appetizers were the real stars of the show. read more

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Rakkan Ramen is different from typical ramen places because of their vegetarian-based broth and vegan ramen options! The broth definitely felt less heavy than normal ramen, but was just as flavorful! I liked that the taste was different from other ramen spots because I felt like I was having a fresh, new ramen experience (actually analyzing the menu longer bc traditional options like tonkatsu ramen was not on the menu). I really liked the spicy quartz ramen I had, but wish I would've asked for pork instead of chicken for the meat. While the ramen was slightly more expensive than other places, they also have different Japanese apps and sushi options that were reasonably priced. Service was fast and helpful with recommendations. It was a little cold in the space--even the warm broth was not enough to keep me from shivering a little. Overall, worth a try! read more

RAKKAN Ramen - Chicago Uptown - 2pcs Aburi Salmon* - Ramen Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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A friend recommended this place to me so we went before a show at Aragon, which is right around the corner. We made reservations for 7:30 on a Friday, which I didn't think we would need but there was a little wait so maybe it's smart to book ahead. The servers were very friendly and patient with our group by explaining the menu. I had the spicy garnet ramen and it was absolutely delicious! We ordered the vegan dumplings as well and that was fantastic. Our group had some dietary restrictions and Rakkan Ramen accommodated all our needs. I'd happily be back! read more

I ordered the vegan Ramen for takeout. The taste is pretty good, but the amount that you receive for $20 is pretty small. I would have expected at least enough for another meal. read more

The ramen was good, tasty and very flavorful. I enjoyed the added spice in the broth. However, Rakkan Ramen has spicy chili oil served on the table. So, I would skip paying the extra for the spice and use the chili oil instead. I'm also a big advocate for whole egg with a jammy yolk when it comes to my ramen and the egg can and will make or break my decision for a repeat visit. Rakkan has my return visit. Their egg is jammy just right AND they serve an entire egg. read more

RAKKAN Ramen - Chicago Uptown - SPICY GARNET WITH AN EXTRA EGG - Ramen Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Ordered the miso ramen delivered. It was very neatly/effectively packaged so that everything arrived in great without any spillage or mess. It was still warm enough to eat when it arrived. The ramen was flavorful and delicious, without being too salty or heavy. The veggie garnishes added a fresh element. Would definitely order from here again! read more

The ramen here is above par. The noodles seem to be made in house and have incredible texture and flavor. The miso broth is packed with richness. I appreciated that the ramen wasn't over complicated, just a few classic toppings (I added some extra egg). The service was also wonderful, everyone was super kind and friendly. The restaurant itself has a great atmosphere, clean and modern. read more

RAKKAN Ramen - Chicago Uptown - Extra Spicy Miso - Ramen Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Came on a calm Sunday afternoon, servers were really nice and food was excellent! Broth is actually flavorful and tastefully made! I have had a lot of ramen and would definitely say this is the best I have found along the north shore. read more

RAKKAN Ramen - Chicago Uptown - AMBER and SPICY QUARTZ - Ramen Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Passing through the neighborhood and decided to try some new food for the first time and I can honestly say that I chose the right place and the right dish. Everything was amazing. Our waitress was very helpful with the menu. She also gave me a complementary birthday treat I absolutely recommend this place.10/10 read more

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It gets harder and harder to write reviews for ramen places, I'm not really WOWed anymore the way I used to be every time I have ramen but it doesn't mean it's not good or enjoyable, I think perhaps I'm too desensitized to it? Like rakkan was yummy and I finished my bowl plus extra noodles, I got the spicy quartz ramen, but it wasn't particularly unique or special, but solidly delicious. I do wish the ramen had more toppings, it had crispy garlic, bamboo shoots, green onions, pork, and egg. It's not the best ramen I've had in Chicago tbh but it's solid. Ugh I feel like I'm not doing a great job of describing it but say you want a big bowl of ramen after a tough climbing session during winter? Rakkan is the place for you! Don't forget to give other restaurants in the argyle strip some love though, there are many sparkling gems along the whole street. Ugh idk, long Chris what do you think? Flavorful, I like the pork, I like the texture of the noodles, toppings were good (shrugs) I think so too long Chris, I think so too read more

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Met a friend here for lunch and was recommended the Garnet Ramen. It was a light, tasty broth - but not as rich as I would have liked. It had ample noodles, too much I think. I would have preferred more veggies, seasoned egg, and pork in my dish. I would eat here again but only if invited, it's not a Ramen place I myself would frequent. read more

Great late night spot option if you're in the area. They close at 11pm on Fridays (can't speak for the entire weekend but Friday for sure). Their appetizers were our favorite ! Probably some of the most delectable dumplings I've had in a while. Their pork buns were good too, but were a little on the cold side (not surprising considering were there an hour before closing). The ramen itself was tasty. Great broth of umami flavors. We weren't the biggest fan of their noodles. They are a different style and look to be more thin and wheat like than the usual. It wasn't bad just not our first choice of noodle. Excellent service with a clean and spacious restaurant! read more

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Finally got to try Rakkan Ramen for the first time and it was super yummy! The Quartz ramen was creamy and flavorful (but it tasted bette when cold strangely lol), the karaage was crispy and flakey!, we got shrimp shumai and takoyaki as an appetizer and they were flavorful and well presented. The service was great and the food came out SUPER fast. Can't wait to drop by and try more of their ramen flavors! read more

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Was really in the mood for some ramen after the weather in Chicago started to dip in temps. Came here on a weekend around early dinner time and was seated immediately. Service was nice and the space is clean and a pretty casual vibe. Ordered the takoyaki which I feel like is always solid and a bit hard to mess up at most Japanese spots. A nice appetizer. As for the ramen itself, I ordered the spicy garnet which I liked. Definitely interesting that all the broths are vegan which is great for all those non-meat eaters. Really impressed with how strong the umami flavor. I still think meat broth (pork, beef, even chicken/fish) is generally more intense and rich than this, but I was not mad at all with this. I'd definitely come back again if I'm in the area and in the mood for ramen. Definitely a spot I'd recommend for vegetarians/vegans. Also some interesting specials that I might check out down the road. read more

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Ramen was tasty but nothing special. We tried 3 different types - Amber, Pearl and Garnett. Bowls say "Tokyo" which is a cute touch. Free refills on the green tea were much appreciated. Understaffed for the high volume of in-person customer and take out orders. We went on a Wednesday at 7pm. We were a party of 3 seated and ordered, yet a party of 7 seated after us got their food and drinks before we did. We waited over 40 minutes for our ramen bowls. Probably will not go back. read more

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Not too spicy. Hearty. Mushrooms and toppings were good. Broth was a bit too salty personally for me. Overall 7.5/10 for being a vegan ramen read more

RAKKAN Ramen - Chicago Uptown - SPICY GARNET Vegan - Ramen Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Really the best ramen I have ever had! The broth is wonderful and the servings are a good siz!

The ramen noodle itself here is decent - I feel like the broth is lacking a bit more flavor (I mean I get it, it's all vegetable broth) but still - I wish there was that creaminess or just somehow some more flavor was incorporated. I really enjoyed their takoyaki and their pork belly bun was mediocre. Regardless, the atmosphere is simple and clean, staff/service was also decent. Overall, I'd recommend if it's convenient for you or if you happen to be in the neighborhood to dine here but I wouldn't go out of my way to eat their ramen. read more

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Despite being on a busy street, the atmosphere is very cozy. Single seats at the bar with outlets and hooks (appreciated as a frequent solo diner). Friendly staff and vegan/vegetarian options. Pictured: Salmon sushi and Ruby ramen. I visited at around 4pm on a Saturday and there were only a few patrons but the staff seemed to be setting up for a strong dinner rush. One star off for the lack luster bathrooms - down a back hallway with very basic accommodations. Don't expect something to match the nice aesthetic of the rest of the place. read more

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The Queen is also Queen of Ramen and decided to treat me to some at this place. It is a cute and unassuming spot on Broadway. Stepping inside, we were met with all of this cool wood décor. The space itself is narrow, but cozy with nice ambiance. La J said that the space looked like the restaurants you would see in traditional places in Japan (see watches a lot of Asian food shows on YouTube). At the time we went, it wasn't busy, so we were immediately greeted and seated. The server was nice as he was on top of us, checking on us every so often, making sure everything was ok. As we never pass up a chance to get gyoza and we got the pork ones....they were absolutely delicious! I like a good gyoza and these were nice. They had a nice crispy that had a great crunch to them. They were nicely filled, and the flavor was full of punch. We also got the Takoyaki...these are always a favorite of ours and these did not disappoint. The presentation was a lovely and they were also tasty. Side story on the Takoyaki...the very first time I ordered them, I didn't know that they were covered in rice paper. They were brought out to our table and all I saw was movement on the plate. The heated paper was contracting as it cooled and was moving. I swear I thought the dish was alive! HAHAHAHA! Fortunately, this was presented to us not alive and was delish. We also got the pork buns....they were just ok, not a lot of flavor for me, but the meat was tender. At $6 a bun, I would most likely not get this again. I ordered the Quartz ramen as some of the others described the broth as having a sardine flavor....not a fan of that. The broth was sort of like a Tonkotsu broth, but not as rich or creamy broth. But that is to be expected since the broth base was veggie. But it was still very good. The pork topping had good flavor too. The dish came with the Rakkan noodles, which had a different texture for me. I guess because they are wheat based, this changed the experience for me. While this was a good dish, I think I would have enjoyed it more probably with the rice noodles. The next time I order this, I will get those instead. The Queen got the Spicy Quartz, but she said she didn't think it was all that spicy. She ended up adding chili oil to hers, but she loved it. Overall, the experience, the service and the food were excellent! The prices are a little on the higher side based on other places we have gone to, but the quality of the food overall was very good. I would definitely come back here again and we are going tonight for dinner. read more

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The food was absolutely delicious and the decor is beautiful! Sydney our server was great as well, and personable. It was our first time and she was very helpful and knowledgeable with the menu! We definitely will be back again!! Also the drinks were great as well. I recommend the seasonal Alaskan Amber it was super smooth and tasty! read more

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We went for the gluten free noodles. We ordered ramen with GF noodles and a seaweed salad. Salad came out and we dug in and it was fine (salad under, not cucumber). Then server came back as we finished the salad to tell us they were out of GF noodles. We canceled our order and told her we didn't want anything else. We waited about 10 minutes before I finally started trying to wave her down to ask her for the bill. I'm not sure why she didn't bring it and she was surprised when I asked. While the food was fine, we won't be going back. There are too many good places in the area. read more

RAKKAN Ramen - Chicago Uptown - Menu - Ramen Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This may make sense to those who are of my generation and perhaps even older; have you ever experienced wanting a good old fashioned simple and greasy hamburger or cheeseburger but have found it difficult to find one? Too many places you go, they have created 'gourmet' burgers with 'inspiration' from various places. While these are good/decent, you just want your good, old, original, simple hamburger! That out of the way, imagine the same for Japanese food. I'm not a Japanese cuisine specialist by any means however I do know some flavors since I grew up in Tokyo. I so miss the tori no karaage (chicken karaage) but everywhere I have been to (not too many to be fair), it's way too Americanized which is ok but come on, someone's got to have authentic or close to authentic chicken karaage. I honestly gave up on Japanese food (Japanese curry rice, ramen, chicken karaage and takoyaki) in the US till I came across Rakkan Ramen. The founder, Ryohei Ito brought the idea of Rakkan Ramen with one goal in mind; bring authentic Japanese food to the world. Is the chicken karaage exactly how I remember having it in Tokyo growing up or on my various trips back there? I'd say 98% yes. The 2% is probably the type of chicken available here, the oils, water, etc. No nonsense specially made aolis drizzled on top and topped with tiny things to make it pretty; Rakkan Ramen's chicken karaage is as close as it gets to what you get in Japan. So let's get on with it. It was about 2 or 3 months ago, a friend and I visited Rakkan Ramen based on reviews and I figured let's check it out. You enter and you are transported to Japan with the word, Irrashaimase coming out of the staff's mouth within the first 2 seconds that you enter the door. OMG. I AM LOVING IT SO FAR. We are seated way back in the corner (which I don't mind. I'm an introvert anyway). We ordered the takoyaki which was outstanding. We also ordered a side of the chicken karaage (which I have already described above). We each ordered a ramen. I ordered the Amber. The broth was a BOMB. While vegan, the flavor profile it had was so Japanese and outstanding. The seasoned egg was PERFECTLY done. The bamboo shoots, hmmmm, that crunch in your mouth and lastly the chachu (grilled pork). The chachu I will say I've had better at other spots in the US. The actual noodles too I think there are spots that have better ones. Overall, this ramen HIT THE SPOT and I felt like I found a JACKPOT. Fast forward a while later, I went in solo for a lunch special on a Friday afternoon and ordered the Pearl ramen AND of course, my chicken karaage. The karaage again was exactly how it was the first time I had it. The ramen too was so amazing. Salty (not too salty but just right) and truly umami. One additional thing I wish Rakkan would do is to start adding wakame. This is the wet/soft seaweed that is a common ingredient across Japan in ramen, udon and miso soups. I have yet to come across a Japanese restaurant in the US that serves wakame (again, I have probably tried at most 50 Japanese restaurants in the US and I know there are thousands) I am so glad to have found this place. Now that I'm back, I plan on having my ramen fix every other week for a Friday lunch. read more

I've had Rakkan once before in Southern California and I was excited to see that they've expanded to Chicago and putting their very first location in this city right in Uptown where I live. This area lacks a ramen place, so the thought I'd be within a 5 minute walk to this place is great. I tried coming here initially on their grand opening, but it was way too busy, so I chose to wait until the hype died down. Came here with a friend on 9/25 around 8:30pm, and the place had a small amount of customers.. expected on a rainy Sunday night. I do appreciate that they are open until 10pm on Sundays and during the week, and 11pm on Friday and Saturday nights respectively. Things tend to close way too early around here in my opinion, so this option is great. I hope they don't change it at any point to close earlier. Anyways, my friend and I both ordered the same ramen bowl: the spicy garnet (w/ miso sauce). Considering it said "spicy and hot!" on the menu, I genuinely thought it would be hotter. I asked the server if we could make it hotter than average and she said to just use the chili oil that was in the table. That was kind of a bummer to me. Anyways, I'm in between a 3 and 4 rating on this place, because I feel like the broth could have been a little more flavorful, I feel like they should be able to make it spicier in the kitchen, and lastly, I was disappointed in the bowl size. I think for $15.50, the bowl could have been slightly bigger. I walked out of that place spending $20 with the tip, and I was still actually hungry. Normally when I eat ramen, I get full pretty quickly! I'll return to try the other stuff, but I'm slightly underwhelmed. Giving them the benefit of the doubt since this is the first ramen place to open up in the area that I've been excited about. read more

RAKKAN Ramen - Chicago Uptown - Spicy Garnet Ramen - Ramen Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

The restaurant is beautifully decorated and clean. The service was amazing as was the food. There is a nice selection of sake. Will definitely return. read more

RAKKAN Ramen - Chicago Uptown - Ramen Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Extremely rude staff. Bunch of genz folks that really don't care whether or not you eat whether or not you get your food whether or not you're there whether or not you never come back. In fact, they would rather just be really nasty to you and look at you. Weird and treat you like you are the least important person in the room at all times. I used to eat here. I will never be back. read more

We enjoyed this ramen spot! Great place for a quick pre-show dinner walkable from the Rivieamra theatre. Seevicecwas good, ramen and dumplings were delicious. My partner enjoyed a cute beer flight and I had a lovely cocktail. My spicy ramen wasn't very spicy, but there was chili oil on the table and I added my own heat. read more

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The Vegan broths were really good. Me and my friend had the spicy garnet miso, and the quartz creamy. The servers were very polite and welcoming:) definitely recommend for anyone looking for a comfy place and hardy meal read more