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Ramen-San
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Ramen-San
8.7
Ramen-San is a high-volume River North noodle joint from Lettuce Entertain You, serving tonkotsu, kimchi fried chicken ramen, and late-night fried rice alongside Japanese beer and whisky. Bowls lean rich and satisfying, and the hip-hop soundtrack and bar energy make it as much a casual night-out spot as a reliable ramen fix.
Must-Try Dishes:
10 Hour Tonkotsu, Kimchi & Fried Chicken Ramen, TanTan-San
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 7.2
Consistency: 9.3
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: High-energy ramen bar with late-night hours and serious volume-backed consistency.
Who should go: Ramen lovers wanting buzzy, late-night bowls and drinks.
When to visit: Evenings and late nights when the room is loudest.
What to order: 10 Hour Tonkotsu, Kimchi & Fried Chicken Ramen, TanTan-San.
Insider tip: Hit the late-night menu after 9 p.m. for fried rice, ramen, and easier bar seating.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive at night; nearby paid garages are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Casual — hoodies and jeans are common, though many guests lean slightly trendy for evenings.
Noise level: Loud during peak hours — conversation is possible but raised voices are common near the bar.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7:30 p.m.
Weekday lunch: Usually little to no wait, except during peak office lunch rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — a few ramen and appetizer options can be made vegetarian or are naturally so.
Vegan options: Limited — broth and toppings skew animal-based, though some sides and modifications may work.
Gluten-free options: Limited — noodles and many sauces contain gluten; staff can advise on broth and rice-based alternatives.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want a lively, casual vibe with quick service — less ideal for a quiet, intimate conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes — bar and counter seats turn quickly, but expect a wait during late-night and weekend rushes.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes for older kids and teens who like ramen; the room can be loud and late-night hours skew adult-focused.
Best For
Better for: Late-night ramen, quick solo dining at the bar, and a lively, music-forward atmosphere with consistent bowls.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, fully gluten-free or vegan ramen, or a long, sit-down dinner with conversation-first pacing.
Ramen-San
8.7
A hip River North noodle joint where bowls of tonkotsu and kimchi & fried chicken ramen share the table with sticky Thai and spicy Szechuan wings. Locals use it for late-night ramen, beers, and wings under loud hip-hop in a tightly packed room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sticky Thai Wings, Spicy Szechuan Wings, Kimchi & Fried Chicken Ramen
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 7
Consistency: 9.2
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Ramen-focused spot where sticky Thai and spicy Szechuan wings are as beloved as the noodles.
Who should go: Ramen fans who also chase creative, spicy wings.
When to visit: Prime evenings or late-night when the room is buzzing.
What to order: Sticky Thai Wings, Spicy Szechuan Wings, Kimchi & Fried Chicken Ramen.
Insider tip: Sit at the bar for faster solo seating and easiest access to late-night wings and sake bombs.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and metered; most guests use nearby River North garages within a 1–3 block walk.
Dress code: Casual and streetwear-friendly — jeans, hoodies, and sneakers are normal.
Noise level: Loud — hip-hop soundtrack and tight tables make conversation challenging at peak hours.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes for walk-ins during prime time; bar seats may turn faster.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait, except on especially busy days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — a few ramen and side options can be made vegetarian; ask staff for guidance.
Vegan options: Limited — broth and wing sauces skew animal-based, though a small number of sides may work.
Gluten-free options: Limited — most noodles and wings contain gluten; some items may be adaptable but cross-contact is likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want fun, casual, and high-energy — less ideal if you prefer quiet conversation or a slower, romantic pace.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — they accommodate walk-ins, but expect a wait at peak hours; solo diners and bar seats are typically seated fastest.
Is it kid-friendly? Reasonably kid-friendly earlier in the evening, but the room is loud and cramped; best for teens or flexible diners rather than very young children.
Best For
Better for: Late-night ramen and bold, sticky-spicy wings in a lively, music-driven setting with fast bar seating.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, strict gluten-free dining, or a formal sit-down experience with spacious tables.