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Brooklyn Ramen at Katagiri Japanese Grocery
Master Critic Review
Brooklyn Ramen at Katagiri Japanese Grocery
8.0
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Hidden Gems Heaven
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Tucked inside Katagiri’s Lexington Avenue grocery, Brooklyn Ramen runs a compact counter turning out shoyu, tonkotsu, and veggie miso bowls in disposable containers. It’s a low-frills but flavor-forward option for commuters who want real ramen instead of deli soup before or after a Grand Central train.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shoyu Ramen, Tonkotsu Ramen, Veggie Miso Ramen
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Ramen counter hidden in a historic Japanese grocery, serving serious bowls in a grab-and-go format.
Who should go: Ramen fans commuting through Grand Central who prioritize flavor over ambiance.
When to visit: Weekday lunch or early evening when the grocery is lively.
What to order: Tonkotsu Ramen, Shoyu Ramen, Veggie Miso Ramen.
Insider tip: Grab Japanese snacks or drinks from Katagiri’s aisles to round out your ramen meal.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Lexington Ave is limited; rely on nearby paid garages around Grand Central.
Dress code: Casual—grocery-store setting where commuters stop in as they are.
Noise level: Low to moderate; grocery bustle but easy for conversation.
Weekend wait: Usually no wait; counter service moves quickly.
Weekday lunch: Short line during peak lunch but typically under 5–10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—veggie miso ramen and occasional seasonal add-ons.
Vegan options: Limited—broths are generally not vegan; check for broth-free or modified options.
Gluten-free options: Very limited—standard ramen noodles contain wheat and no dedicated gluten-free prep.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re both ramen-focused and comfortable in a no-frills grocery setting; it’s more functional than romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—there are no reservations and seating is minimal; most diners take their ramen to go.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes for quick meals, though space is tight and best suited for older kids who can manage counter seating.
Best For
Better for: Fast, affordable, high-flavor ramen in a commuter-friendly spot without Midtown markups.
Skip if: You want full-service dining, a long menu, or a more atmospheric ramen experience.