Ramen By Ra

- 348 Bowery, New York, NY 10012

New York City's dining scene is a world of its own, constantly evolving with new flavors, concepts, and experiences. For those who believe that food is not just about sustenance but about connection, creativity, and a journey, Ramen By Ra offers something truly special. This isn't your typical ramen shop; it's a one-of-a-kind, intimate culinary experience that has quickly become a must-visit destination for those in the know. Located in the vibrant NoHo neighborhood, Ramen By Ra is led by the visionary Chef Rāsheeda Purdie, a talented chef who has masterfully blended her Southern culinary roots with the art of Japanese ramen.

The experience at Ramen By Ra is designed to be personal and memorable. Unlike large, bustling restaurants, this spot is an intimate counter-style establishment that creates a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a place where you're not just a customer, but a welcomed guest, with the opportunity to interact with the chef herself. The menu is a unique take on the traditional, inspired by the Japanese "asa-ramen" (morning ramen) concept, and infused with creative, American breakfast and brunch flavors. This fusion results in bowls that are both comforting and exciting, familiar yet entirely new.

This article will serve as your comprehensive guide to Ramen By Ra, a unique gem at 348 Bowery. We'll provide you with all the essential details, from its specific location and how to get there, to the services it offers, and what makes it a standout feature in the city’s crowded culinary landscape. We’ll also cover the crucial detail of reservations, which are required for this special dining experience, and provide contact information to help you secure your spot. Whether you're a long-time ramen enthusiast or a curious food adventurer, you'll discover why Ramen By Ra is worth seeking out.

The philosophy behind Ramen By Ra is simple yet profound: to create an experience that is authentic, innovative, and deeply personal. Chef Rāsheeda Purdie’s journey from a career in fashion to the culinary world is a testament to her passion and creativity. Her ability to translate the precision of styling into the artistry of plating is evident in every bowl she crafts. The concept is a bold and successful departure from the norm, offering a space where guests can truly savor their meal in a relaxed and engaging setting.

Ramen By Ra is nestled at 348 Bowery, in the heart of New York City’s NoHo district. This location places it in a prime, easily accessible area that is both stylish and culturally rich. The restaurant is situated in The Bowery Market, a small, multi-vendor food hall that adds to its unique, cozy feel.

Getting to this destination is straightforward for New Yorkers. The Bowery is well-served by public transportation, with several subway lines and bus routes stopping nearby. The Broadway-Lafayette Street station (B, D, F, M trains) and the Bleecker Street station (6 train) are both within a short walking distance, making it convenient for anyone coming from different parts of Manhattan or the outer boroughs. For those who choose to drive, the area offers both paid street parking and free street parking, though as with any central Manhattan location, it's wise to plan ahead.

The small, intimate nature of the restaurant is part of its charm. With a limited number of seats, the space is designed to create a personal connection between the chef and her guests, making the journey to get there completely worth it.

The services offered by Ramen By Ra are tailored to its unique, intimate dining model.

• Reservations required: Due to the very limited seating (reportedly only four or five seats), reservations are not just recommended, but required. This ensures a controlled and intimate dining experience for every guest.
• Dine-in: The primary service, centered around the counter where guests can watch Chef Rā prepare their meal.
• Takeout: While the main focus is the dine-in experience, takeout options may be available, providing a way to enjoy the food from the comfort of your home.
• Brunch and Lunch: The restaurant specializes in a brunch and lunch menu, which is a unique and exciting concept for a ramen shop in NYC.

Ramen By Ra stands out for its unique features and highlights that set it apart from other ramen shops in the city.

• Innovative Ramen Menu: The menu is a creative fusion of Japanese ramen techniques and American breakfast/brunch flavors. Unique offerings like the "Steak and Egg Ramen" and "BLT Ramen" are prime examples of this inventive approach.
• Intimate Dining Experience: The cozy, small-counter setting creates a personal and engaging atmosphere. It’s an experience that feels more like a private supper club than a typical restaurant. This setup allows for great conversation with fellow diners and the chef, making it a social and culinary event.
• Black and Female-Owned Business: Ramen By Ra is a significant establishment as it's reportedly the first Black and female-owned ramen shop in America. Supporting this business means experiencing incredible food while also celebrating a milestone in the culinary world.
• Exceptional Chef: Chef Rāsheeda Purdie is a highly praised chef with a background in fashion, which influences her meticulous and artistic presentation. Her warmth and wonderful energy are consistently highlighted in customer reviews, adding to the overall positive vibe of the dining experience.
• Pre-booked and Pre-paid System: The reservation system allows guests to book and pay for their meal in advance. This is a brilliant feature that eliminates the "awkwardness surrounding money" and allows diners to simply arrive, sit down, and enjoy the food and the conversation without distraction.

For reservations and inquiries, you can use the following information:

Address: 348 Bowery, New York, NY 10012, USA

Phone: (212) 677-4579

What is worth choosing at Ramen By Ra? The answer lies in the total experience, not just the food. While the ramen itself is undeniably unique and delicious—with dishes like the "Steak and Egg Ramen" lauded for their amazing and comforting flavors—the real value is in the intimate setting and the personal touch from Chef Rā. As one customer noted, the experience felt like being transported to a cozy Japanese food stall, with a beautiful aroma and a warm, welcoming energy. The pre-booked and pre-paid system is a game-changer, removing the typical transactional feel of a restaurant and allowing guests to focus purely on the food and company.

Choosing Ramen By Ra is about embracing a new kind of dining. It’s for those who appreciate innovation and are looking for a meal that goes beyond just satisfying a craving. The limited seating and required reservations mean that every visit is a planned event, not an afterthought. This is a place you book for a special occasion or when you want to treat yourself and a friend to something truly different. The opportunity to meet the chef and feel a part of her culinary journey is a rare treat. Ultimately, Ramen By Ra is a testament to the fact that sometimes, the best things come in small packages, offering a world of flavor and a sense of community in a truly unique way.

Ramen By Ra

348 Bowery, New York, NY 10012, USA