Menu - Ippudo

On a Saturday around 7 PM, my group of three added ourselves to the Yelp waitlist and only waited about 5 minutes before being seated. The restaurant didn’t see... read more On a Saturday around 7 PM, my group of three added ourselves to the Yelp waitlist and only waited about 5 minutes before being seated. The restaurant didn’t seem too busy, and we requested a table rather than bar seating. The servers were attentive, and our food arrived quickly. The shrimp baos were wonderfully crispy, and I really enjoyed the slightly sweet sauce—it was a unique twist. The karaage was fried to perfection, with the chicken so juicy and fatty that even though there were only five pieces, it felt worth it. The ramen was pretty standard, but I’m a fan. I can definitely see myself coming back. The total bill, including tax and tip, was roughly $35 per person (we shared two starters among the three of us, and each ordered their own ramen).

This was probably my second visit in a few years, and I’ve noticed a clear improvement in both the menu and the overall quality of the ramen. My rating has gone... read more This was probably my second visit in a few years, and I’ve noticed a clear improvement in both the menu and the overall quality of the ramen. My rating has gone from 3 stars to 4. For my meal, I ordered the Akamaru Modern ramen and found the Tonkotsu broth to have a richer flavor compared to a year ago. Great job on that. I chose the firm noodles, which I recommend. Just for fun, I tried the Sho Chiku Bai sake to support a local Berkeley brewery and was pleasantly surprised. It was sweet, with a clean finish and no bitter aftertaste. The soup arrived lukewarm—I would have preferred it hotter, but it was too much trouble to ask them to reheat it. The interior features a mix of metal chairs and wooden benches, with a warm beechwood atmosphere. We arrived early around 11:30 am, so it wasn’t crowded. Seating options include booths, communal tables, and some bench-metal chair combinations along the walls. Regarding COVID precautions, you are asked to sanitize your hands upon entry with the alcohol gel provided at the door. Tips: 1) Arrive early around 11:30 am to avoid long waits. 2) Order the Hakata firm noodles so they don’t get soggy if you take your time eating.