ICHIBA

The clocks at Village Copier may as well say “Hours til’ Next Lunch.” We’re consumed by consumption, discerning which meal options speak to our moods from the moment we clock in.

But the break in our workday routine becomes a routine itself. Overwhelmed by options and loyal to a few favorites.

This explains why we only got around to trying out Ichiba Ramen many months after it’s opening.

Now we indulge in big bowls of hot broth with a small side of regret from not getting there sooner.

You can hardly swing a dead cat in this town without hitting a Ramen joint these days, but Union Square has to this point lacked a solid option. (Sorry Republik, but you know the deal).  

Ramen appreciation is old news, standards elevated so high that David Chang has already said Ramen is dead (http://luckypeach.com/the-state-of-ramen-david-chang/)

But Ichiba Delights.

The vegetarian Matcha Shoyu ramen may be the VC favorite. It’s light, perhaps slightly improved if you substitute the thick, wavy noodles.

The Spicy MIso satisfies something deep in your heart on a cold October day. The Chashu Don (pork with rice and other fun things) similarly leaves only smiles.

From the outside, Ichiba resembles an aspiring chain. But within, the staff earnestly and genuinely help you out. We’ve yet to dine in, but the deceptively cold outside betrays a cozy inside space.

And so we heartily recommend you give it a go. As with all ramen, it’s a bit pricier and slightly more food than you may want for lunch, but consider it a treat.

While perhaps not the most extraordinary ramen out there, within our little Union Square bubble this is well worth your time.It’s straightforward, light if you want it to be but with room for indulgence.

So break up your lunch routine, stave off boredom and alzheimer’s and dive into the broth at Ichiba.