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Oiistar
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Oiistar
8.3
Oiistar is a Wicker Park ramen bar where housemade thin noodles, tonkotsu-style broths, and Korean-leaning flavors anchor a tight menu of bowls and buns. Locals use it for richly flavored, unconventional ramen like masala- and pozole-inspired bowls when they want a louder, date-night-friendly room instead of a quiet counter shop.
Must-Try Dishes:
Oiimen classic tonkotsu ramen, Paitan Shio with Fukuoka roasted garlic, Pork belly buns
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Creative Korean-influenced ramen bowls with housemade noodles in Wicker Park.
Who should go: Ramen fans wanting inventive bowls and a lively date-night setting.
When to visit: Dinner on weeknights before lines build or chilly evenings.
What to order: Oiimen classic ramen, Paitan Shio with garlic, pork belly buns.
Insider tip: Sit at the counter to watch the line work and get faster refills.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Milwaukee and nearby side streets; can be competitive during dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual — jeans, sweaters, and date-night casual all fit the room.
Noise level: Moderate to lively — you can hold a conversation, but it’s an energetic space.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes during peak times, especially for small tables.
Weekday lunch: Often no wait or a short one depending on weather and season.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — there are a couple of vegetarian ramen and small-plate options.
Vegan options: Limited — vegan substitutions are not always available due to broth base.
Gluten-free options: Limited — ramen noodles contain gluten and gluten-free swaps are not guaranteed.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the cozy lighting, lively energy, and creative ramen make it a fun but still intimate first-date spot.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes — Oiistar tends to operate on a walk-in basis, but expect a wait during peak dinner rush.
Is it kid-friendly? It works for older kids or teens who enjoy ramen, but it’s not specifically geared toward young children and can feel loud and busy during peak hours.
Best For
Better for: Bold, creative ramen with Korean and global influences served in a stylish, date-night-friendly setting.
Skip if: You want ultra-traditional Japanese ramen, very quiet dining, or extensive vegan/gluten-free choices.
Oiistar
8.2
Oiistar is a Wicker Park ramen house where rich, modern broths can be paired with gluten-free rice noodles and clearly labeled gluten-free appetizers and desserts. The room runs loud and lively, but staff are used to walking guests through gluten-free choices, from salads to sweets. It’s one of the strongest options in the area when you want serious ramen and can’t have wheat.
Must-Try Dishes:
Paitan Shio ramen with gluten-free rice noodles, Oii-Ramen with gluten-free rice noodles, Crème Brûlée with espresso caviar (gluten-free)
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 6.8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Ramen shop offering gluten-free rice noodles and labeled gluten-free dishes.
Who should go: Gluten-free ramen fans who still want depth and richness.
When to visit: Early dinners on weeknights before the room fills up.
What to order: Paitan Shio with rice noodles, Oii-Ramen, gluten-free Crème Brûlée.
Insider tip: Request rice noodles and confirm broth choices to keep bowls gluten-free.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Milwaukee and side streets; can be tight during peak dining hours.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual — jeans and a nice top fit right in.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak; conversation is possible but not quiet.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes for walk-ins depending on time and party size.
Weekday lunch: Typically little to no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several options including appetizers and ramen variations.
Vegan options: Limited — possible with modifications, but confirm with staff.
Gluten-free options: Strong options — gluten-free rice noodles and clearly labeled dishes, but shared kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the ramen is excellent and the vibe is lively but cozy. Just know it can get loud during peak hours.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes. They accept walk-ins and smaller groups tend to be seated faster, especially early evening or weekdays.
Is it kid-friendly? Older kids and teens will be fine, but the space is compact and loud, so it’s not ideal for toddlers or strollers.
Best For
Better for: Serious ramen lovers who need gluten-free noodle options without sacrificing broth quality.
Skip if: You want a very quiet, spacious dining room — or require fully dedicated gluten-free preparation.