Ippudo was our first restaurant visit four our Facebook Page ‘Culinary Tour 2010’. The challenge was ‘Noodle Bar Smackdown’ Ippudo vs. Momofuku. Well, Ippudo was the landslide winner of that contest!  The decor is authentic Japanese in a rather large space, which isn’t quite so authentic!  But despite it’s huge size, expect to wait.  They are not the best for nothing.  Our strategy was to get there early.  Conveniently, there is a bar in the waiting area.

The pork broth in the Udon is rich and full and the pork belly was served brown and crispy.  I love an assortment of pickled anything, so the pickled veggies were also a favorite.

MENU
Appetizer: Hirata Pickled Vegetables
Entrees: 2 Shiromaru Ramen

We do need to get back to Ippudo to write a proper review.  We found an amazing Japanese Brasserie in Tribeca called Zutto Japanese Brasserie.  They told us it is becoming very busy, but it was our little secret for about a year.  If you love ramen and don’t want to wait in line, check out Zutto.

http://www.ippudo.com/ny/
65 Fourth Avenue – East Village