Ippudo

New York branch of Japanese ramen chain (there will be another NYC branch opening soon). We were first to go in 11.30am and there was no queue whatsoever. The music was so loud that it put us off our food immediately and we ate as fast as we could.

The ramen is also overrated. I ordered the Akamaru Modern but the noodles were somewhat soft rather than springy, although I did like my tonkotsu broth. The pork buns can't be compared to those at momofuku as these were spicier, leaner and meatier than the momofuku ones which were slightly fattier. But overall I loved momofuku for the atmosphere, friendly service and great dishes, while I really did not like Ippudo one bit.

I won't be recommending Ippudo NYC although I would try a branch in another country for comparison.