Ramen @ Nagahama Ramen Riki, Nishi Ward, Fukuoka

 

It is just a matter of time before ramen comes into the picture. And this is one local specialty shop that again will be out of most people's radar but is a favourite of its nearby residents. 

Men at work

Nagahama Ramen Riki, or Riki in short, is a ramen shop that specialises in Nagahama ramen. Essentially, its tonkotsu bone broth soup but much lighter. This ramen recipe has a history of being the main choice of sustenance between fish market auctions. Well, I am not sure if there are any nearby fish markets within the ward, but I digress.  Lets just go straight to the point. I like this place, alot. It is basic, no frills, 100% gritty and authentic noodles in a bowl. So when you go in, expect the same with the decor. It is very spartan. However, despite that, also expect a line. The food speaks for itself here. True, humble and honest soul food. 

Its so green!

I went there on a Thursday, which was a better, as it was gyoza day. So in addition to my negi ramen, which is spring onion ramen that stood for 770yen, I got myself a plate of dumplings too. That was for 200 yen only and it is only served in Thursdays. When I asked for spring onions, they were not kidding. My bowl looked like an entire sea of green! I liked it though. It may be an overkill to the ramen, but the flavour from freshly cut spring onions was able to temper the porky flavour and fat of the soup.

Munch!

 Speaking of which, it was astounding. It was think but still smooth and not too overpowering. There is a creamy quality to it, but it did not feel too fatty or cloying. The charshu that came with it was great too. Slightly fatty and well seasoned, it was the perfect complement. The noodles were decent and does the job. Nothing too much to shout about. Then again, sometimes simple is good. 

Gone!

So what do I think about the overall bowl? Well I finished the entire bowl. I think that is a good enough endorsement. But how about those dumplings?

Golden on the outside, delicate on the inside. 

The gyoza were great too. Although I had better gyoza in other ramen places and specialty shops, it does round up the meal pretty well. The mince was well seasoned and I can feel the crumbs of the mince quite distinctly. The skin was charred on one end and soft on the other. With a little chilli oil, and it was just an absolute blast to have. 

Condiments galore!

This place also whips out a huge amount of fried rice and champon too. It was one of the few instances where I have seen a ramen place excel in other mains besides ramen. I might give those dishes a try the next time I come over. 

What a bright and sunny day!

This was a great noodle haunt which I can simply endorse without any hesitation. It may take a little effort to come here as it is located in the depths of suburbia but it will be worth it. The shop is accessible via local train and it is about 10 minutes away from Kyudai-Gakkentoshi station. Fancy a go? Then the address is as follows:

1060-16 Tokunaga, Nishi Ward, 福岡市西区 Fukuoka 819-0375