For a good two decades, NYC has been obsessed with ramen and for good reason: many of the top Japanese ramen chains have opened outposts here (we cover some in this chapter). But now there’s a new noodle in town, and Raku’s udon is creating line-out-the-door excitement. Udon is thicker than ramen, with a pleasing springy gumminess to it. Here it’s served in a number of different preparations: in clear dashi broth with stacks of tempura, as part of a curry soup, in a tinglingly spicy thick udon broth, chilled with dipping sauce, and as a stir fry. There are add-ons to customize your bowling-ball-sized portion with, from grated yam or daikon to mochi to slices of prime beef or spicy pork, along with a long list of worthwhile appetizers and desserts. One note: The line moves quite quickly, so don’t get discouraged (they take few reservations). It will also give you a preview of the very Japanese experience to come: the last time I was on this line, I was the only one speaking English.
New York City
Travel Guide
New York City› Restaurant
Raku
48 MacDougal St. (off Houston)
Pauline Frommer
Our Rating
Neighborhood
Soho & Nolita
Hours
Tues-Sun noon-9:30pm
Transportation
Subway: 1 to Houston, C, E to Spring
Prices
Entrees $14-$29
Cuisine Type
Japanese
Web site
Raku
Other
Also at 342 E. 6th St. (nr. First Ave.)
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.