Just a few days ago, my friends and I talked about our favorite ramen restaurant, and all of us…read moreagree that Ippudo is the best among those we've tried. Although that's the case, I still enjoy exploring cheaper ramen places, and I am so annoyed right now because apparently, Hikojyu has been around for a year and a half already, yet I learned about it only 2 weeks ago! Bummer! Anyway, my boyfriend and I are so glad of this discovery!
Unlike other ramen restaurants, Hikojyu's ramen choices are limited to just 2 kinds: shoyu and tonkotsu. Naturally, we ordered both! When they were served, I was a bit apprehensive because they didn't look hefty. However, on my first sip of both broths, I knew we have found the best affordable ramen shop in Marikina! They are rich in flavor, minus the umay factor that others have! Of course, given the price, the toppings were understandably limited to a few pieces of pechay, egg halves, and a chashu slice, which could still be made more tender, IMO. If you want your ramen to be spicy, use any of their authentic Japanese condiments.
For our sides we tried their gyoza and potato salad. I was never a fan of gyoza save for Ippudo's deep-fried gyoza, and now, I have a second favorite! This one doesn't have the yucky mashed old veggie taste that most gyozas have! But if I had to pick just one side, I'd order their potato salad more often! It's perfectly seasoned! Wish it came in a bigger serving, though!
On one corner of the restaurant is a table with magazines, both English and Japanese, plus an album filled with the owners' pictures in Japan. We met one of them, the wife, Tita Tess, and she's really nice and accommodating! Never a dull moment! Her husband is Japanese, so we know that Hikojyu's dishes are authentic! I can't wait to go back and try their rice meals!!!