Mr. Taka Ramen

- 368 Stratford Rd, Brooklyn, NY 11218

If you are a New Yorker searching for a truly authentic, deeply satisfying bowl of Japanese ramen, you likely already know the name: Mr. Taka Ramen. While the brand has established a strong presence across New York City, including its original Lower East Side location, the essence of its acclaimed ramen culture is perfectly captured in its Brooklyn operation. This establishment is not just another noodle shop; it represents a commitment to the craft of ramen, stemming from a chef with Michelin-guide recognition in Tokyo. For local foodies and casual diners alike, Mr. Taka Ramen offers a culinary experience that is both casual and exceptional.

The world of ramen is complex, defined by the perfect marriage of rich broth, perfectly textured noodles, and flavorful toppings. Mr. Taka Ramen excels in all these areas, consistently earning high praise from dedicated ramen critics and everyday customers. The restaurant is co-founded by Chef Takatoshi Nagara, the talent behind Bigiya, a Michelin-recognized ramen restaurant in Tokyo, and Takayuki Watanabe. This pedigree ensures that the quality and authenticity of the ramen are of the highest standard. Their presence in the competitive New York dining scene elevates the city's ramen offerings, making it a must-visit spot for anyone craving this Japanese staple.

Whether you are looking for a quick and comforting solo meal or a relaxed dinner with friends, Mr. Taka Ramen provides a welcoming and unpretentious setting. The focus here is squarely on the food—bold, traditional flavors executed with precision. The casual atmosphere makes it a great choice for any day of the week, embodying the perfect New York experience of finding world-class cuisine in a neighborhood setting.

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Location and Accessibility

Mr. Taka Ramen's location at 368 Stratford Rd is a key part of its appeal, providing a local haven for authentic Japanese cuisine right here in Brooklyn, NY 11218. The area is known for its vibrant community and excellent neighborhood dining options, and Mr. Taka fits right into this landscape. While specific public transit directions will depend on your starting point in the greater New York area, Brooklyn itself is well-served by the subway system, making it generally accessible from other boroughs. As a local business, the restaurant serves as a convenient and high-quality dining option for those living in or visiting the immediate area.

The exact spot at 368 Stratford Rd allows residents to enjoy a world-class ramen experience without having to venture into the more congested parts of Manhattan. The neighborhood vibe of the location contributes to the restaurant's overall relaxed and welcoming feel, making it an ideal destination for a regular, comforting meal. For those driving, researching local street parking or nearby garages is always advised, as is typical for dining in New York City. The restaurant’s placement aims to cater to local demand, positioning it as an integral part of the Brooklyn food scene.

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Services Offered

Mr. Taka Ramen provides flexible options to suit various dining preferences, from a quick meal on the go to a leisurely sit-down experience. Their services are designed for convenience and quality, ensuring every customer can enjoy their acclaimed ramen no matter the occasion.

• Dine-in: Enjoy the full, casual restaurant experience in the establishment's comfortable setting. This is the best way to fully appreciate the ambiance and the freshness of a piping hot bowl of ramen.
• Takeout: For customers in a hurry or those who prefer to eat at home, the takeout service provides a convenient way to enjoy the menu's offerings.
• Quick Bite: The menu and service are structured to accommodate those looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal without a long wait, perfect for a lunch break or a fast dinner.
• Lunch Service: Available for a midday meal, making it an excellent spot for a lunch outing or solo dining.
• Dinner Service: Open for evening dining, offering a great option for a casual and satisfying dinner.

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Features / Highlights

The reputation of Mr. Taka Ramen is built on several distinctive qualities that set it apart in the dense New York City restaurant landscape. From the authenticity of the recipes to the quality of the ingredients, the restaurant’s features highlight its commitment to an unparalleled ramen experience.

• Michelin-Pedigree Chef: The restaurant is co-founded by Chef Takatoshi Nagara, the chef and creator of Bigiya, a Michelin-recognized ramen restaurant in Tokyo. This background ensures the techniques and recipes are rooted in authentic, high-level Japanese culinary traditions.
• Acclaimed Tonkotsu Broth: The classic Tonkotsu ramen is a standout, praised for its perfect thickness, creamy texture, and deep, not-too-salty flavor. Reviewers often note drinking the broth to the last drop, a testament to its quality.
• Custom-Made Noodles: Mr. Taka Ramen custom makes all of its noodles through a renowned supplier, Sun Noodles. This dedication to quality ensures the noodles have the exact firmness and texture needed to pair perfectly with their specialty broths, whether they are the thin noodles for the Tonkotsu or the flour wavy noodles for the Tan Tan.
• Highly-Rated Chashu Pork: The chashu is consistently highlighted as a must-try topping. It features an ideal meat-to-fat ratio, a succulent texture, and a complex flavor profile with smokey and sweet notes, often enhanced with a blow torch preparation.
• Vegan and Vegetarian Options: The menu is inclusive, offering vegan-friendly options like the Taka's Vegan and Spicy Vegan Curry ramen bowls, ensuring diners with dietary restrictions can also enjoy a high-quality meal.
• Casual and Welcoming Atmosphere: The environment is described as casual, making it an approachable and comfortable spot for any type of dining occasion, from solo visits to group meals.
• Specialty Ramen Varieties: Beyond the classic Tonkotsu, popular bowls include the Spicy Tonkotsu, Tan Tan Ramen with its chicken and bonito fish broth and a powerful chili kick, and the Spicy Stamina bowl, which is perfect for spice lovers and often features cabbage and vegetables.

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Contact Information

The following is the available contact and location information for the Mr. Taka Ramen establishment in Brooklyn. While phone numbers associated with the primary Manhattan and other specific market locations may appear in some public listings, the physical address for the specific local Brooklyn location is as follows:

Address: 368 Stratford Rd, Brooklyn, NY 11218, USA

Phone: Phone information for this specific street address is not consistently available across all public listings. For immediate inquiries or to place an order, local customers may want to check online ordering platforms or the brand's main website for the most current phone number or online contact options.

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What is Worth Choosing

When stepping into Mr. Taka Ramen, customers are faced with a selection of exceptional bowls, each crafted with the same dedication to quality. The choice often comes down to personal preference, but several dishes stand out as "must-try" options that exemplify the restaurant's skill. The signature dish, the Tonkotsu Ramen, is a universally loved favorite. Its rich, velvety pork bone broth is the standard by which great ramen is measured, and Mr. Taka's version is considered top-tier in New York.

For those who enjoy a little heat, the Spicy Tonkotsu or the Spicy Stamina ramen are highly recommended. The chili oil and paste used for the spicy options are often homemade, providing a unique and complex kick that perfectly complements the broth's richness. The Spicy Stamina bowl, in particular, is noted for its vibrant mix of spices and vegetables, offering a hearty and invigorating meal.

Another fan favorite that provides a distinctly different flavor profile is the Tan Tan Ramen. This bowl is a Japanese interpretation of Chinese Szechuan soup, featuring a savory blend of chicken and bonito fish broth, sesame sauce, chili oil, and ground pork. The use of custom, wavy flour noodles in this dish is a highlight, offering a unique texture that holds the rich, nutty, and spicy broth beautifully.

Beyond the main dishes, the Aburi Chashu Rice Bowl is a popular choice for a side or a lighter meal, showcasing the quality of their perfectly prepared chashu pork. Similarly, the Pk Buns are often lauded as a great appetizer. And for those seeking plant-based excellence, the Taka's Vegan or Spicy Vegan Curry ramen bowls are noted for being flavorful and satisfying, proving that Mr. Taka's mastery extends beyond traditional meat broths.

In sum, choosing Mr. Taka Ramen means choosing a deeply authentic, flavor-focused meal backed by true Japanese culinary expertise. It’s a guaranteed high-quality experience for any ramen enthusiast in Brooklyn and the wider New York area.

Mr. Taka Ramen

368 Stratford Rd, Brooklyn, NY 11218, USA