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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of New York

First dates

A ramen shop that feels intimate enough for a first date, rather than a loud, rushed environment that kills the conversation.

Based on 493 Opinions
+490
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Updated May 2026
01
Peng's Noodle Folk image 1
Peng's Noodle Folk image 2
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Ramen restaurant

Small space with dim lighting and gears-and-lights sculptures creates a cozy, elegant vibe. Atmosphere feels more like a takeout spot but offers relaxed seating and quiet comfort. Popular for northern Chinese noodles and has a steady flow of takeout orders.

Ramen here stands out for its Marbled Pork Rib and extra spicy Tonkotsu noodle soup. The broth is rich and the noodles hold up well, making it a solid choice for ramen lovers.

People are saying

"The ramen broth is creamy, flavorful, and soul-warming."

"The dumplings have thin wrappers and juicy filling."

"I found this place to be a true hidden gem away from tourist traps."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is currently not operational due to relocation.

2

The new location on 72nd is not opened yet.

3

The prices are affordable, around โ‚ฌ30 per person.

02
Lucky Cat image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Izakaya-style space filled with authentic Japanese decor and retro anime visuals playing behind the bar. Atmosphere feels cozy and charming, closely resembling izakayas in Japan. Regulars enjoy anime-inspired cocktails and a lively vibe with a DJ and classic anime movies on TV.

Ramen here features large portions with a lot of food for the price. The use of yuzu adds a fresh note that cuts through the pork's fattiness, making the signature ramen quite enjoyable.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and authentic Japanese."

"It's a cozy spot with a great atmosphere and eclectic decorations."

"I loved the ramen here; it was delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a meal, especially for large groups.

2

Happy hour offers $4 Sapporo and runs daily from 12pm to 6pm.

3

Free parking at the meter is available after 7 PM.

03
Ivan Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small ramen restaurant offers cozy vintage atmosphere with close tables and a loud, chaotic vibe inside. Outdoor seating includes a heated, dog-friendly patio that provides a more private and comfortable experience. The space feels lively and crowded, making conversation difficult indoors but more relaxed outside.

Ramen here stands out for its rich chicken broth and the unique addition of koji tofu in the vegan option. The bowls consistently deliver deep, savory flavors that many consider unmatched in the city.

People are saying

"I thought the ramen here was the best I ever had."

"The vegan ramen here is outstanding and flavorful."

"This spot feels cool and has a really energetic vibe."

Good to know

1

Make sure to reserve ahead of time to secure your table.

2

You must respond within five minutes if you receive an SMS about your table.

3

You need all members of your party to be present to get seated.

04
Kyuramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Honeycomb seating creates a unique, private dining experience with individual cubbies and call buttons for service. The atmosphere feels cozy and authentic, evoking a Japanese vibe with stylish, well-designed decor. Flavored sake and smooth soju add to the relaxed, enjoyable energy.

Broth here is rich and authentic, especially the Tonkotsu Ramen which stands out. The ramen consistently delivers great flavor and satisfying quality on every visit.

People are saying

"The ramen here is rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced."

"It's a cozy space with a beautiful, modern atmosphere."

"The honeycomb seating here is really cool."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to secure a table.

2

Mandatory tips start from 20%, leaving no choice for the tip amount.

3

The lunchtime menu offers good value for the price.

05
KYURAMEN - Bayside image 1
Ramen restaurant

Spacious ramen restaurant with hi-tech robot servers delivering drinks and orders. Interior blends traditional Japanese vibe with unique seating like hexagon tables and private rooms. Atmosphere feels cool and family friendly, lively with some noise in private areas.

Ramen here stands out with its unique bamboo shoots and consistently strong flavors. It serves as a reliable spot for high-quality ramen and pairs well with takoyaki.

People are saying

"The ramen broth here is rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced."

"The decor and ambience here are really cool and unique."

"The Takoyaki here is crispy outside and bursting with flavor inside."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to secure the honeycomb seats in advance.

2

The restaurant does not have air conditioning, which can be uncomfortable in summer.

3

Every day is Ramen Day, offering special promotions.

06
Ramen Misoya West Village image 1

Basement setting with brick walls and warm tone lighting creates a quiet, cozy atmosphere that feels intimate yet spacious. The place offers both bar and table seating, attracting those seeking calm dining without pretension. Hidden entrance and speakeasy vibe set it apart from typical ramen spots.

Miso curry chicken katsu ramen stands out with its big, tasty flavor and balanced saltiness. Many vegetarian and vegan options exist, and the ramen is consistently extremely tasty with a clean, cozy setting.

People are saying

"The ramen broth here is so rich and creamy."

"It's a quiet, quaint, and cozy spot with a modern feel."

"I felt spoiled by the fantastic vegan ramen here."

Good to know

1

The entrance is tricky; go around the corner to find the stairs.

2

Happy hour is available, so arrive early to take advantage.

3

Expect to pay $20-25 per person, including tips.

07
Tanoshii Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Cozy, clean space offers an open and chill atmosphere with an Asian vibe. Guests find it low-key and homey, attracting those who appreciate a comforting, relaxed setting. The menu is small but curated, featuring build-your-own ramen, chicken broth option, and vegan choices that stand out in the neighborhood.

Ramen here is homemade and soulful, with standout bowls like the spicy miso ramen and black garlic oil chicken bone broth. The spicy options bring strong Mala-style flavors that pack heat and depth.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the ramen, has a rich and savory broth."

"You've got to try the shrimp buns; they're perfect."

"I thought the ramen here was really delicious."

Good to know

1

Customers can build their own bowl of ramen with various toppings.

2

You can add extra noodles for $3 to your ramen bowl.

3

The menu is limited, ensuring freshness in the food served.

08
Nishida Sho-ten image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small, intimate ramen shop with tight seating and a classic Japanese vibe. Atmosphere feels warm and authentic, encouraging quick dining. Known for exceptional ramen flavors and a notable sake selection.

Ramen here stands out for its authentic flavor and late night availability. The chicken ramen is especially notable for being completely satisfying and often considered the best in the city.

People are saying

"This ramen is one of my absolute favorite spots."

"This is a great late night spot for delicious ramen."

"The bathroom has a high-tech toilet with a bidet."

Good to know

1

Expect to wait for a table if you are a party larger than 1 during busy hours.

2

The restaurant is open till 3am during the week and weekend.

3

You will likely have to wait for a table at 7pm on a Saturday.

09
KOKU RAMEN image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small ramen bar with cartoon-covered walls and colorful decor creates a cozy, casual vibe. Bar seating faces the kitchen, making it ideal for solo diners. Music plays loudly, adding energy to the compact space.

Broth stands out with its rich, pork flavor that many find unmatched. Options include a vegetarian ramen that also receives high praise. Late-night availability makes it a rare spot for ramen after hours.

People are saying

"I thought this ramen was the best I had in NYC."

"The soup here has a really strong, delicious broth."

"The chashu bowl was so affordable and generously portioned for the price."

Good to know

1

They only accept cash payments.

2

The kitchen closes at 1am, so don't walk in too late.

3

The lunch special runs from 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM.

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