WHAT WE ATE
- Karaka-Men – 65/100, Melbourne, Ippudo QV
- Shiromaru Ramen – 85/100, Melbourne, Ippudo QV
Attention all Ippudo Ramen fans! Are you curious to know how the Melbourne outlet stacks up against its renowned counterparts?
KARAKA-MEN – 65/100 points
Noodle: 30/35 Rating
Delightful medium thin and straight noodles that offer a satisfying firmness, mouthfeel, and slurp factor. The light aroma and fullness of the noodle elevates the overall taste. The noodles will leave you craving more.
Soup: 10/35 Rating
Prepare your taste buds for an intensified spicy experience. Even at level 1, the soup packs a punch that surpasses its counterparts in Japan or Singapore. The tantalizing spiciness lingers, leaving a burning aftertaste that ignites the senses. While the soup offers savory spiciness, the iconic nuttiness of karaka-men seems to be absent, despite the presence of crushed peanut toppings that hint at its potential.
Meat: 20/20 Rating
Delight in the slightly thick slices of chashu. Each tender bite reveals a savory explosion of flavors, as the perfectly balanced marination entices your taste buds. You’ll love the hidden depths of flavor that emerge with every chew.
Toppings: 5/10 Rating
While the toppings, including the normal egg, spicy marinated minced meat, beansprouts, negi, and caramelized onion, promise a layered taste sensation, the balance falls slightly short of expectations. Though the elements are present, their harmonious interplay seems elusive.
SHIROMARU RAMEN – 85/100 points
Noodle – 30/25
If you’re a true ramen aficionado, then you’ll understand the significance of the noodles at Ippudo. We’ve been loyal patrons for over a decade, indulging in their mouthwatering bowls on a monthly basis. Trust us when we say that these long, thin strands of perfection are unparalleled. And here’s a little secret – Ippudo is one of the rare few that can flawlessly execute both hard and soft noodle preferences. Prepare yourself for a slurping sensation like no other!
Soup – 30/35
The broth at Ippudo might appear slightly more diluted to some, but don’t be deceived by its appearance. With just one sip, you’ll be transported to a world of savory bliss and umami explosion. The fragrance alone will entice your taste buds, leaving you craving for more. While the broth may have evolved over the years, it still possesses that signature richness that Ippudo is renowned for. Although the emulsified fats are not as prominent as before, rest assured that every drop is packed with satisfaction. Plus, let’s not forget the collagen layer that used to be a hallmark of Ippudo’s broth. Overall, it’s still an incredible experience.
Meat – 20/20
Delve into a culinary experience where thickness and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness take center stage. The marination of the meat is masterfully executed, resulting in a well-balanced symphony of flavors. Each bite offers a tantalizing blend of savory notes, leaving a lasting impression on the palate. Prepare to embark on a gastronomic journey as you savor the exquisite tenderness and flavors of this remarkable ramen. It’s an experience that should not be missed by any discerning food lover.
Toppings – 5/10
Ippudo’s Tamago is a sight to behold, with its perfectly cooked yolk and absence of any unsightly browning. The expected mirin taste is flawlessly executed, ensuring a delightful burst of flavor with every bite. As for the other toppings in the ramen, they are satisfactory without any standout elements to rave about. Rest assured, Ippudo maintains its reputation as a reputable ramen chain.
DISCLAIMER
One man’s meat is another man’s poison.
Find out more about our palettes and how we evaluate our ramen here. 😉
