Ichiran recently opened an outlet in New York. This store is located in Brooklyn, at 374 Johnson Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11206 (Phone: (718) 381-0491)
The cool thing about this is the hours are from 11am to 2am.
About the location.
This location is not so close from Manhattan. probably will take you about 30 mins from Downtown to get there. Feels like an industrial area with construction work around. Probably not the best place to be at night.
The good thing about this location is that this is not too crowded, so probably less crowded?
There are 2 types of seating available, so don't worry if you want to talk, there are regular tables besides the booth seating.
So hows the Ramen?
Well, I love Tonkotsu Ramen. And Ichiran is one of the best Tonkotsu Ramen you can get. Ichiran in Brooklyn does not disappoint. I ordered the strong flavored, rich soup with firm noodles. Some garlic, Chilli and scallions. I remembered to save some broth for extra noodles. I added a side order of seaweed.
Everything was fantastic. Can't complain. Best ramen I've had in the US by far.
Hakata Issou (εε€δΈε) is still my favorite (located in Fukuoka)
Is it worth the trip from Manhattan to Brooklyn to try this?
-- YES!!!!
On a weekday afternoon, it was not too crowded, seats were available during lunch, and service was ok, and quality was top notch. Taste was authentic like the Ichiran I like.
One thing to note, this restaurant is a no tipping restaurant and I felt that the price is rather high. The price for basic ramen with 2 pieces of pork is $18.95++, and with Ice Matcha, Extra noodles, side of seaweed, it costs $30++.
I probably can have the same thing for under US$15 in Tokyo. But heh, instead of flying to Tokyo, you can taste it here in NYC!
FYI,
-- Robin