Ippudo

Yeah, we’ve had ramen infatuations before—Setagaya, Minca, Momofuku. This time, though, it’s forever. Ramen King Shigemi Kawahara brings super-authentic, super-addictive pork broths to the E.V. Get the velvety classic, or even better, the red, garlicky Akamaru Modern. Exterior looks like remainders from a lumberyard, signals playful interior. Bamboo tree curling above open kitchen. Wait forever at front bar beneath wall of mounted ramen bowls. Warning: rabid enthusiasm of expat staff and clientele can be infectious.