Tokyo Ramen - Ippudo and Jangara Kakuni Ramen with Extra Garlic, Yum 2008-08-17

I love ramen. My favorite is Tonkotsu ramen loaded with garlic. The best shops put a bowl of raw garlic cloves on the counter, and I add 2 or 3 to the broth which is usually thick with garlic already. If you're looking for great, strong tasting ramen, I recommend Ippudo Ramen (in Ebisu, Yokohama, or Takadanobaba). I like the thin, hard noodles (and, of course, the powerful taste). I also love Jangara Ramen in Harajuku. I always order the Kakuni Ramen. Kakuni is extra fatty, stewed pork. After eating Kakuni Ramen at Jangara with extra garlic I always feel a bit queezy, but I think it's worth it. Anyway, I always go back.

The ramen shop in the picture is forgettable as far as I know. Ramen is fast food in Japan. Tokyo must have thousands of little ramen shops serving up average fare, but when you find a good one you'll know.