Kuro-Obi Ramen CK by Ippudo

- 700 8th Ave, New York, NY 10036

For ramen lovers on the go, Kuro-Obi Ramen CK by Ippudo offers a convenient and delicious solution in the bustling heart of New York City. Located within the popular City Kitchen food hall, this ramen counter is a streamlined concept from the world-renowned Ippudo, bringing its celebrated ramen expertise to a fast-casual format. Kuro-Obi is the perfect destination for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal, especially for those navigating the busy streets of Midtown or looking for a fast bite before a Broadway show. The focus here is on a few key, high-quality dishes, ensuring that what you get is a rich and authentic taste of Japan without the wait.

Unlike a traditional sit-down restaurant, Kuro-Obi's concept is all about efficiency and speed. The menu is focused on a select number of ramen options and classic side dishes, making the ordering process simple and quick. The signature ramens, Kuro-Obi and Aka-Obi, are crafted with Ippudo's signature expertise, known for their deep, savory flavors. While the dining experience is more casual due to its food hall location, the quality of the food remains top-tier. It's a place where you can grab a steaming bowl of comfort food and find a spot to enjoy it, providing a much-needed break from the fast pace of city life.

Kuro-Obi's reputation is built on its delicious and flavorful ramen, which many customers consider to be among the best they've ever had. It’s particularly popular for lunch, catering to a steady stream of people looking for a satisfying midday meal. While the portions and pricing have been noted by some customers, the overall sentiment remains positive, with many acknowledging the high quality of the food itself. This makes it a go-to spot for those who prioritize taste and convenience.

Kuro-Obi Ramen CK by Ippudo is located inside the City Kitchen food hall at 700 8th Ave, New York, NY 10036. This prime location is right in the heart of the Theater District, making it an incredibly convenient stop for tourists and locals alike. It's an ideal choice for a quick meal if you are attending a matinee or evening show, as it’s within a short walking distance of numerous Broadway theaters.

The food hall setting offers a shared, casual dining space with a limited number of tables. While seating is not guaranteed, the quick service and the nature of the food make it easy to grab your order and find a spot to enjoy it. The establishment is wheelchair-accessible, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance. Parking in the area can be a challenge, as it is a bustling part of the city. Paid parking garages and paid street parking are available nearby for those who choose to drive. For most New Yorkers, the location is easily accessible by public transportation, with several subway lines and bus routes serving the Times Square area.

Kuro-Obi Ramen CK by Ippudo operates with a streamlined service model:

• Takeout: The primary service option, allowing you to quickly order and pick up your meal to enjoy wherever you choose.
• Onsite Services: The restaurant is located within City Kitchen, a food hall with communal seating.

Explore the highlights of the Kuro-Obi experience:

• Fast Service: A perfect choice for those on a tight schedule, with orders prepared quickly and efficiently.
• Authentic Flavors: The ramen is known for its rich and full-bodied flavor, a signature of the Ippudo brand.
• Comfort Food: The menu is centered around hearty and comforting dishes, perfect for a cold day or a much-needed break.
• Simple and Focused Menu: The selection of two main ramen options, Kuro-Obi and Aka-Obi, ensures quality and consistency in every bowl.
• Classic Side Dishes: The menu includes popular Japanese snacks like Pork Buns and Edamame, providing a well-rounded meal.

Address: 700 8th Ave, New York, NY 10036

Phone: (917) 338-1011 (This number is for City Kitchen, where Kuro-Obi is located. Direct phone number for the stall is not widely available.)

Choosing Kuro-Obi Ramen CK by Ippudo is all about getting a high-quality bowl of ramen quickly and conveniently. For many, the "ramen itself is great, full of flavor," and is considered among the "top 5" they've ever had. This is a significant endorsement, highlighting the superior taste that stems from its connection to the Ippudo brand, a global leader in ramen. While the portions may be on the smaller side for some, the concentration of flavor is undeniable. The rich broths and the perfectly cooked noodles make for a satisfying experience that stands out in a city filled with ramen options.

What truly makes Kuro-Obi worth a visit is its unique positioning within the City Kitchen food hall. This setup provides a different kind of experience from a traditional sit-down restaurant. It’s an ideal spot for a quick lunch, offering a delicious alternative to typical fast food. For those with specific dietary preferences, the availability of various broths, including a chicken broth option, is a definite plus. One customer, while noting some issues with their specific order, highlighted this flexibility, and for many, this ability to customize is a key factor.

The focused menu also ensures a high level of quality control. By concentrating on just a couple of ramen bowls, Kuro-Obi can perfect its craft. The Kuro-Obi is a creamy chicken soup ramen with garlic oil, while the Aka-Obi features a spicy miso paste, providing a choice of classic and spicier options. Paired with simple yet delicious sides like Pork Buns and Edamame, it's a complete meal that feels both easy and special. For a quick, flavorful, and authentic ramen fix in the heart of Times Square, Kuro-Obi Ramen CK by Ippudo is an excellent choice that delivers on its promise of quality and convenience.

Kuro-Obi Ramen CK by Ippudo

700 8th Ave, New York, NY 10036, USA