NYC Ramen Battle. Totto VS. Ippudo

I don't go to NYC just for ramen (biggest lie). In my recent trips to the city I always somehow ended up getting ramen. I personally love noodles and I love soup. Bammmm ramen is undeniably my favourite food in the entire world, especially the good ones! Such satisfying stew full of meat flavors and chewy housemade noodles.

Totto Ramen

366 West 52nd Street,

New York, NY 10019

Ippudo 

65 4th Ave

New York, NY 10003

It's quite a battle. Environment wise, Totto has this Japanese local ramen booth feeling that chain Ippudo doesn't have. Totto also offers a wide range of in house toppings and appetizers (not to mention limited summer specials like the AvoTuna... so good!). There are only about 8 tables in this steamy place. We were legit sweating while eating the 9pepper hot bamboo shoots. It's also because of its small size, we could interact with our lovely chefs and have a nice chat with them. They are so funny and definitely made our experience much more personal!  

However, chain Ippudo offers unbeatable noodles. They are chewy yet blend so well in the broth. As a part of an international chain restaurant, its deco is also more upscale and  comfortable to sit and chat. Their cha-siu buns are the best! This was my second time going to Ippudo and the 1.5 wait was so worth it! 

So no matter how much we want to find a winner between these ramen places we seem not to find a winner! They are different in terms of atmosphere, food and overall experience. It's up to you on what you prefer. 

Do you have a special Ramen place that you always go? Whats the reason why you love it so much?