Ramen Setagaya @ NYC **

Shio Cha-Syu-Men (Sliced Pork, Bamboo Shoots, Salted Egg, Seaweed, Scallions, Scallop Powder, Ramen Noodle)

Although I appreciate it that this place isn’t trying to be anything it’s not, I did find it a bit strange that although there were six or seven different types of ramen listed on the menu, they all appeared to actually be the same dish with varying amounts of the same meat (pork) and perhaps a switch-out of the broth. I suppose one could say “if customers are happy with the status quo, why change?” but I for one would have appreciated a little more creativity. While the chewy noodles were definitely on par with those at Ippudo or Momofuku Noodle Bar, the higher-end noodle shops definitely have an edge on quality of ingredients. After all, when you’re comparing regular pork to Berkshire pork belly, it really becomes no-contest.   

Details: 141 1st Ave (bet 8th & 9th) New York, NY 10003 (+1-212-529-2740)