Ikkoryu Fukuoka Ramen (by invitation), Melbourne CBD by Obelix

Ramen is the new black.  And it was very exciting to be part of the soft opening of Ikkoryu Fukuoka Ramen as it confirmed all that is good about this wonderful Japanese staple.  FYI, Ikkoryu Fukuoka is brand already well established for good ramen across Asia so finally it's here in Melbourne!


We kicked off with a sampling of the gyoza and the Yakimeshi (fried rice).  The Yakimishi had a lovely wok smokiness to it - a delicious alternative if for whatever reason you are a heathen who goes to a ramen restaurant and don't order ramen.  The gyoza had the crispy requisite crust at the bottom - yum!


Now onto the main event - Ramen!  My mum ordered the Ikkoryu Original Tonkotsu which was garnished with chashu (pork), green onion, bamboo shoots, wood ear fungus and dried seaweed.  At Ikkoryu, you can customise your ramen experience by selecting the broth, ramen oil and additional accoutrements such as extra pork, soy sauce, green onion, etc.  The broth had such depth of character and it was comforting and nourishing simultaneously.  I could have swum in that stuff.

Meanwhile, I am partial to a lot of garlic.  I ordered the Black Garlic Tonkotsu which was the basic Tonkotsu broth mixed with special roast garlic oil.  Trust me, it was vampire slaying.  The pork was so meltingly tender, I think I drank it rather than chewed it.  The ratio of greenery to noodle to broth was spot on.

Ikkoryu Fukuoka is casual dining combining sleek modern design with traditional Japanese motifs.  They have an impressive bar serving cheeky little sake cocktails.  As I was the designated driver, I had to refrain.  Oh well, for next time.

I thought I would include a pic of the entrance as it is ever so discreet.  It leads to the basement where the ramen resides.

Verdict:  We loved it.

Overall
Ikkoryu Fukuoka Ramen is an exciting new additional to the growing ramen scene in Melbourne.  It's official opening day was 1 April 2015.  It is worth sampling a bowl or two of the heart warming ramen. They are quite addictive.  Service was prompt and helpful.  The average bowl of ramen was $15 - $17 and then you add on any extras at around $2 per addition.