What exactly does one crave after a 17-hour visit to Versailles? Ramen. Obviously ramen. It is only natural that a steaming bowl of protein, floating fat, and comfort carbs should come after a day of 30,000 torturous steps.
Ippudo is a chain, a wildly successful one that's gone all over the globe. It’s one I’ve always wanted to try, and this branch sits only two blocks from my Paris hotel.
There's no line at opening time, and the food comes out fast. I'm staring at the strips of fatty pork belly glistening on these Hirata Buns. They mesh well with a layer of mayo and a leaf lettuce, which cools down each intense bite of fatty pork folded between fluffy, steamy bun-sheets.
Their specials list advertises Tokyo Tsukemen, available only in limited quantities.
Snag one if you can but only if you're a fan of fish. The bonito splices fifty-fifty with a thick tonkotsu broth, clinging to each ropy noodle, dripping with porky potential. It's exactly what tsukemen is supposed to be.
First the buns, then the ramen dip. A couple of cult classics followed by a blistering bowl of their "modern" Akamaru Ramen. The noodles can be customized, ranging from soft to almost-raw. I like the middle-man al dente, and the garlic oil adds a pungent edge to a golden broth.
If you've never had ramen, Ippudo has what you need. Their broth has the right mix of creamy fat and balanced savor, and their adjustable noodles cater to all. It's clear why they're wanted all over the world, and I imagine they're the reason so many people got hooked on ramen.
No comments:
Post a Comment