まいちゃろちゃん
♡【Ichiran Kyoto Kawaramachi Store】♡ I visited the popular ramen restaurant "Ichiran," known for its tonkotsu ramen, which has gained nationwide popularity! This ramen shop is located in Hakata-ku, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture, with its main store in Nakasu, and features individual booths with patented "flavor concentration counters" that have quickly become a topic of conversation. The soup is a creamy tonkotsu broth with no unpleasant smell, enhanced by the "red secret sauce" that stimulates the appetite. This place is very popular for its tonkotsu ramen. The features include a smooth and creamy tonkotsu broth without any unpleasant smell, which appeals to a wide range of people. The addition of the "red secret sauce," which condenses the spiciness and various flavors, provides a spicy accent, as well as a deep umami flavor that is addictive and leaves a refreshing aftertaste.
At Ichiran, being a tonkotsu ramen specialty store, the basic menu consists only of "ramen," with simple toppings such as chashu and wood ear mushrooms that pair perfectly with tonkotsu ramen, as well as options for extra toppings like green onions and garlic. You can also order extra noodles, allowing you to enjoy the taste of Ichiran to the fullest by filling out the order sheet at the "flavor concentration counter" and paying the additional fee on the spot. Ichiran was founded in September 1993 at the "Nakawagawa Store" in Minami-ku, Fukuoka City, and now has nearly 80 stores nationwide, as well as expanding overseas to Hong Kong and New York. It is a very popular ramen restaurant specializing in tonkotsu ramen!
The entrance has a sign with the restaurant's commitment written on it. One particularly interesting point is the emphasis on hygiene, with staff tasting the soup every hour and keeping records for investigation in case of any issues. The menu mainly consists of "ramen (980 yen)" which can be customized with various toppings and side dishes. With a simple menu like this, it is easy for a woman to visit alone.
After purchasing a meal ticket, you will be handed an order sheet by the staff to mark your preferences. There are 7 items to customize your ramen, which is a delightful feature. I ordered the basic ramen with my preferences. The "red secret sauce" contains chili peppers, so looking back, I probably should have chosen a spicier option. (Even at the basic level, the spiciness is enjoyable.)
The seating is divided into lanes, with each lane clearly showing available seats. The staff move back and forth inside the lanes, which are not completely separated, so it doesn't feel as cramped as expected. There is a self-service water dispenser at each table, which is a convenient feature unique to the "flavor concentration counter." (However, the water is not ice-cold, but rather lukewarm.)
Ichiran's commitment is detailed on the walls, with a focus on the broth and the "red secret sauce" being manufactured and delivered from "Ichiran's Forest." There are also additional order sheets available for adding toppings, allowing you to order without speaking by paying the individual fee separately. (Cash only)