Hong Kong Eats: Ichiran

On our trip to Japan last year, one of the restaurants on our list was Ichiran.  Sadly, they were under renovation when we got there.  Boo!  And from the moment I found out that Ichiran has already opened an outlet in Hong Kong, I made sure we had time to try them out on our most recent trip there.  So on our second day, using the ever trusty Google Map, we were able to navigate our way to the famed ramen joint.  We got there fairly early at 11am, but there was already a short line forming.  Good thing the people there eat fast; we were seated in no time.

Guide

My order list

My cubicle

Each cubicle has its own water dispenser!

No cheating!  LOL!

Need anything?  Just push the button.

My classic tonkotsu ramen

Hubby's classic tonkotsu ramen with a hint of spicy

Half-boiled salted egg

Look at the line!

So how was it?  Unlike other ramen joints, Ichiran's ramen only has one kind of broth and one flavor.  The only thing you need to worry about is how strong or how mild you want the flavors to be, and the add-ons you want to include.  Though Ichiran's ramen is decidedly simple and no-frills, I'm happy to say that the broth is extra rich and extra delicious!  No wonder it's the number one ramen house in Japan.  Will definitely be back for more!  5 out of 5 stars!

Ichiran is at Shop H ＆ I, Ground Floor, Lockhart House, Block A, 440 Jaffe Road,Causeway Bay 

Hong Kong Eats: Ginza Bairin

The very first time I've tried Ginza Bairin was on the last day of our honeymoon in Singapore.  Hubby and I were on a last minute shopping hurrah in Ion Orchard and needed something quick before we miss our flight.  A sign that said "Japan's best katsudon" was all it took to convince us to try it out, and that was one of the best decisions ever because yes, it was the single best katsudon I've ever tasted in my life.  Fast forward close to two years later, it was a pleasant surprise to find out that Hong Kong too has Ginza Bairin and the glutton in me just said "go for it!".  

Chawan Mushi

Velvety smooth.  Nuff said.

Salmon and Salmon Roe Kushiage / Soft Shell Crab Kushiage

Didn't like the kushiages that much,  It was oily and the taste, forgettable.

Beef Short Rib Skewer

 Nothing special with this one either, would rather go for our tried and tested Pinoy BBQ.

Hotategai Katsu (Scallop)

 NOW we're talking.  The scallops were huge and simple tasted divine.  Soft and juicy.  Would've had seconds if not for the price.  Hehe!

Barin's Signature Special Hire Katsudon

 And for the main event, the main reason we went back to Ginza Bairin:  the signature special hire katsudon.  Still as yummy and as flavorful as I remember it.  Sooooo good!

Rosu Katsu Set (Black Pork)

The Rosu Katsu (Black Pork) was pretty good too, the outside crunchy and the meat tender .  But the overall winner for me would still be the katsudon.  

Overall I'd give Ginza Bairin a 4 out of 5 stars.  The scallops and katsudon is worth every single penny.  It's the stuff wet dreams are made of.  LOL.

*Ginza Bairin has just recently opened here in the Philippines too, hurray!  But I've yet to try it and see how it compares to our neighboring Asian branches.  Something tells me I'm going to get to try it out very soon.  Do watch out for my post on our local Ginza Bairin!

Ginza Bairin is at B/F, Macau Yat Yuen Centre, 525 Hennessy Road, Causeway Bay Hong Kong