Have you eaten, fellow foodies? If you’re around Ayala 30th in Pasig City and craving some legit Japanese goodness, you’ve got to check out Ippudo. This place is like the OG when it comes to amazing ramen and keeping those authentic Japanese flavors alive. It’s become the go-to spot for folks who really want to dive into their dining experience.
So, let’s chat about Ippudo – the spot that’s making waves in Pasig. We’re not just talking about their delicious ramen; we’re diving into the history, feeling the vibe when you walk in, and, of course, checking out the real stars of the show – their mouthwatering dishes. Get ready for a tasty journey!
A Brief History of Ippudo
Ippudo’s story goes back to 1985 in Fukuoka, Japan, thanks to the genius Shigemi Kawahara. Imagine this visionary dude wanting to share the magic of Hakata-style tonkotsu ramen with everyone around the globe. And guess what? People went nuts for it! Ippudo’s killer combo of a rich broth and those super-skinny noodles got them some serious street cred.
Quality and innovation became their middle names, and boom! Ippudo went global, popping up all over Asia, Europe, and the Americas. So, yeah, next time you slurp on that ramen, know you’re tasting a bit of international fame right there.
Ambiance
When you stroll into Ippudo at Ayala 30th, it’s like stepping into this cool fusion of old-school Japan vibes and modern swag. The place is decked out with sleek lines, warm wood vibes, and a sprinkle of Japanese culture, making it feel all homey and fancy at the same time.
And get this – they’ve got this open kitchen thing going on, so you’re not just there for the eats; you’re part of the culinary show! It’s like a backstage pass to all the kitchen wizardry.
Now, let’s talk seating – they’ve got it all covered. You want a cozy nook for a chill date night? They got you. Or maybe you’re rolling deep with the squad – communal tables are on the menu. The vibes are set just right with the perfect lighting, some tunes in the background, and a staff that’s on top of making sure you’re having the best time. So, yeah, it’s not just a meal; it’s a whole experience.
Food
1. Ramen. Ramen. Ramen.
Ippudo’s menu is like a flavor explosion, and they’ve put serious love into every dish to give you that real taste of Japan. But guess what steals the spotlight? Yep, you got it – the ramen! Their ramen game is on another level, showing off their mad skills in making noodles and brewing broths. It’s basically a ramen paradise over there.
Here are my favorites:
Akamaru Miso Ramen: It’s for all you flavor adventurers out there! This bad boy takes ramen to a whole new level. They kick up the rich tonkotsu broth with a special miso paste, and oh boy, it’s like a flavor party in your mouth. And here’s the secret sauce – Ippudo’s umami dama. It’s the hidden gem that adds this lingering depth, turning every spoonful into a wild ride of umami goodness.
Yokohama Shoyu: It’s like the classiest bowl of ramen you’ve ever met. This soy-based broth is like a work of art, carefully put together to be the perfect backdrop for those thin, wavy noodles. And guess what? They’ve topped it off with green onions and slices of pork belly that are so tender, they practically melt in your mouth. It’s like a fancy ramen experience where every ingredient is doing a happy dance together, creating this balanced and oh-so-satisfying bowl.
Karaka-Men: The ramen rockstar at Ippudo – the Karaka-Men. It’s like a party in your mouth with a spicy twist on the classic tonkotsu ramen. They amp up the game with a spicy miso blend that wakes up your taste buds without stealing the show from the rich broth. Picture this – minced pork, bean sprouts, and just a hint of Sichuan pepper, making every bite a flavor adventure. If you’re into a ramen experience with a spicy kick, this bowl is your ticket to Flavortown.
Shiromaru Motoaji: It’s like a big warm hug in a bowl, giving a shout-out to the traditional Hakata-style ramen. The broth is this milky masterpiece, simmered to perfection, and it’s like a velvety canvas for those thin Hakata-style noodles. Now, check this out – they throw in slices of super-tender pork belly, green onions, and this umami-rich black garlic oil that’s like the secret sauce of goodness. Eating this bowl is like taking a trip down the nostalgia lane into the heart of all things ramen culture.
2. Ippudo’s Beyond Ramen
While Ippudo is renowned for its ramen, the menu extends beyond this iconic dish, offering a diverse array of appetizers, rice bowls, and desserts.
Pork Buns: Okay, these Pork Buns are like a tightrope walk of flavors. Imagine soft steamed buns hugging slices of pork belly that are basically bites of heaven. The richness of the pork and that savory-sweet sauce? It’s like a culinary masterpiece doing a happy dance in your mouth.
Deep-Fried Gyoza: Now, for those who love a good texture party, the Deep-Fried Gyoza is your go-to. Crispy on the outside, these bad boys are like a rollercoaster of textures. You bite through that crispy shell, and bam! – you’re hit with the succulent gyoza filling. It’s a wild ride for your taste buds, no doubt.
Torches Salmon Roll: Sushi lovers, gather ’round! The Torches Salmon Roll is like sushi with a cool makeover. They torch the salmon, giving it this smoky kick that dances with the fresh, vibrant flavors. It’s not just delicious; it’s a visual stunner too. Get ready for a sushi experience that’s a feast for your taste buds and your eyes!
Nanban Karaage: It’s like the art of frying, but with a cool Japanese twist. The chicken? Crispy on the outside, and when you bite in, it’s like a flavor explosion with succulent and crazy tasty meat. Now, add a tangy and slightly spicy nanban sauce to the mix – it’s Ippudo showing off their skills with diverse Japanese flavors.
Green Tea Ice Cream: Classic indulgence alert! Ippudo’s Green Tea Ice Cream is like hitting the sweet spot just right. It’s smooth, creamy, and that green tea vibe? It’s like a refreshing and satisfying high-five to end your meal on a sweet note.
Lava Cake: Now, for the grand finale – the Lava Cake at Ippudo. Picture this: you cut through that warm chocolate exterior, and bam! A river of molten goodness flows out, creating this epic symphony of textures and flavors that’s basically a mic drop for your taste buds. It’s not just dessert; it’s a whole experience.
3. Beverage Selection
Beverage Vibes: So, they’ve got this rad drink lineup to go with the food. You can keep it classic with some traditional green tea vibes or dive into their signature cocktails that scream Japanese flavors. Basically, Ippudo’s got something for every taste bud out there.
Sake Adventure: And hold up – the sake menu is where the real magic happens. They’ve brought in premium picks from Japan’s top-notch breweries. It’s like a journey into the world of this traditional Japanese rice wine. Sip, savor, and soak in the goodness!
Service
One cannot speak of Ippudo without acknowledging the impeccable service and hospitality that accompany the culinary journey. The staff at Ippudo Ayala 30th embodies the Japanese spirit of omotenashi, ensuring that every guest feels welcomed and attended to with genuine care. The servers are well-versed in the menu, offering insightful recommendations and ensuring that dietary preferences and restrictions are accommodated.
The efficiency of service is noteworthy, with dishes arriving promptly without compromising on presentation or quality. The chefs, visible through the open kitchen, showcase a dedication to their craft, further enhancing the overall dining experience.
Verdict
Let’s wrap up the Ippudo adventure at Ayala 30th – it’s not just a restaurant; it’s like a food journey that whisks you away to the lively streets of Fukuoka.
The Ippudo Vibe: They’ve nailed this perfect blend of old-school tradition and new-school cool, and their commitment to making top-notch food makes them a go-to spot for anyone who’s all about Japanese grub.
Flavor Fiesta: From that first slurp of their rich tonkotsu broth to the very last bite of those carefully crafted ramen noodles, it’s like a non-stop party of flavors and serious kitchen skills. The whole vibe – the place, the menu, the awesome service – it all comes together to give you an experience that’s not just a meal; it’s a memory-maker.
Ippudo Magic: In the Japanese food world, Ippudo is like the real deal. They’re all about keeping it authentic but throwing in some awesome innovations. So, whether you’re a ramen fanatic or just starting your Japanese flavor journey, Ippudo at Ayala 30th guarantees a dining experience that’s way beyond the usual and leaves you wanting more.
Rating
IPPUDO AYALA 30th
CUISINE: Asian, Japanese
ADDRESS: Ayala Malls The 30th, Pasig, Metro Manila
HOURS: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Monday – Sunday)
CONTACT NO.: +0282529247
FB PAGE: Ippudo Philippines
MODE OF PAYMENT: Cash, Credit Card (Visa, Mastercard), GCash, Paymaya
LANGUAGE: Filipino, English
SERVICE: Dine-in (Lunch, Dinner), Take-Away
BUDGET: 2,000 PHP to 2,500 PHP (good for two or three persons)
OTHERS: Take-Away, Reservations, Parking Available (mall parking), Wheelchair Accessible
DISCLAIMER: Stop guessing and start tasting! We are dedicated to making sure our readers get all the information they need, as well as an honest perspective on their dining experiences. Our reviews are entirely based on experience and paid for with our own money – so you can trust that we’re providing an accurate and reliable review each time.
