Ippudo SG

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Ippudo has finally arrived on the shores of Singapore. Braving the long queues and hordes in Orchard Road, I made Kimmy accompany me on an excursion to taste Ippudo Singapore.

Of course I thought we were being smart by reaching the eatery at 1130am. But Singaporeans think alike, and there was a long queue already. That's ok, I was expecting to wait. The wait turned into a 50 minute long torture as I was submitted to incessant chatter by 5 executives in the line behind me complaining about anything and everything, and especially Ippudo. I dunno why they were talking so loudly, and it was so disturbing I couldn't hear my thoughts or write coherent updates on Facebook.

Eventually we got a seat in this ramen joint that's a bit too chi-chi for liking. I don't think a ramen joint needs pretty (and massive) chandeliers and fancy wall decor. They probably just need to add condiments on the table. I was looking for my shoyu, chilli oil, chilli flakes, sesame seeds, garlic, garlic press, ginger slices, pickled vegetables, pepper, etc, etc but it was a big bare table, very utilitarian, shared with other patrons. Kimmy said Ippudo gives or sells this wonderful tao gey (bean sprouts) dish but it wasn't on the menu. What was on it, thankfully, is the gyoza (dumplings), which is quite possibly the best gyoza I've ever eaten. They are miniscule, but full of flavour.

Everything aside, most importantly, the broth lives up to its name. The Shiomaru and Akamaru were both delicious, hearty and full-flavoured. The tamago (egg) was overcooked though. Methinks it was perfect to begin with, but ended up being cooked thoroughly in hot broth. Ippudo should really look into perfecting their onsen-tamago. In the meantime, DO NOT order the egg with your ramen, save that $2!

Final verdict: Delicious but rather expensive at nearly $50 for 2 persons (just for ramen?!). If you love Hakata-style ramen, Ippudo will be worth your wait. Here are some pictures of Ippudo in Singapore and Tokyo.