WHAT WE ATE

• Aka Tonkotsu Ramen, 45/100 (08 Jul 2022, Changi T3)
• Shiro Tonkotsu Ramen, 45/100 (08 Jul 2022, Changi T3)

Imagine a hassle-free, express version of Ippudo that provides a quick taste of their renowned ramen when you can’t find the time for a full dining experience. It’s like Ippudo lite, offering a convenient way to enjoy the essence of their delicious ramen without compromising on quality.

AKA TONKOTSU RAMEN 45/100 points

Noodle – 15/35

The appearance of the noodles is similar to those found at other Ippudo chains, but unfortunately, they lack the desired bite and have a different overall texture. It’s quite disappointing, especially considering the higher price point. Additionally, the portion size seems smaller than expected.

Soup – 20/35

The broth carries a resemblance to the flavors found at Ippudo restaurants, but it falls slightly short in richness and has a lighter consistency.

Meat – 5/20

Regrettably, the meat was tough, although the taste was acceptable. It could benefit from being more savory.

Toppings – 5/10

The eggs appear lightly marinated and have a pleasant taste, with a nice runny yolk. As for the other toppings, they include negi and black fungus. They are nothing particularly special, but the decent portion of black fungus does make a slight difference.

SHIRO TONKOTSU RAMEN 55/100 points

Noodle – 20/35

The noodles here are identical to those used in the Aka Tonkotsu Ramen. However, they would benefit from a firmer texture and a slightly larger serving size. The appearance of the noodles is similar to those found at other Ippudo chains, but unfortunately, they lack the desired bite and have a different overall texture. It’s quite disappointing, especially considering the higher price point. Additionally, the portion size seems smaller than expected.

Soup – 25/35

Similar to the Aka Tonkotsu Ramen, the broth in this version is also light and thin in consistency. The broth carries a resemblance to the flavors found at Ippudo restaurants, but it falls slightly short in richness and has a lighter consistency.

Meat – 5/20

The pork belly used in this ramen remains unchanged from previous variations, lacking any notable improvements. Regrettably, the meat was tough, although the taste was acceptable. It could benefit from being more savory.

Tamago – 5/10

The tamago topping remains the same as before, without any unique or standout characteristics. The eggs appear lightly marinated and have a pleasant taste, with a nice runny yolk. As for the other toppings, they include negi and black fungus. They are nothing particularly special, but the decent portion of black fungus does make a slight difference.

CONCLUSION

At its price point, the experience is quite disappointing. Despite the association with Ippudo, the quality falls far short of what you would expect from the restaurant version. The portion sizes are tiny, and the food feels more like an assembly rather than the work of a skilled chef. Even the visual presentation lacks sophistication, with paper bowls and disposable utensils being used.

DISCLAIMER

One man’s meat is another man’s poison.
Find out more about our palettes and how we evaluate our ramen here. 😉