The interior feels just like Tokyo — dark, eclectic, clandestine, fun. And the staff clearly enjoys working here (thank you!). I’m hooked, and I’ll definitely be back next time I’m at the Thompson because the signature “Kin ramen” is absolutely fantastic. I’m admittedly, unapologetically, a snob when it comes to ramen because the ramen shops in Los Angeles and Orange County, California, are the best in America. That’s a fact. And this place holds its own. The ramen here is legit. That signature bowl features a collagen-rich, tonkotsu-style pork broth and beautifully charred, cloud-like chashu (pork belly) and the perfect ajitama (soft-poached egg). Ask for it spicy — they make their own chili oil, and it’s fire. This is easily one of the best bowls of ramen I’ve found in the U.S. outside of Southern California. Oh, and I should note: the cocktails are great, too, especially the umai, a Japanese-inspired margarita made with Espalon blanco tequila, house-made plum syrup, lime juice and Cointreau.
Kin Ramen, 129 W. 56th St., New York, NY, @kinramennyc
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