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Nakamura
Master Critic Review
Nakamura
8.6
Nakamura is an 18-seat ramen shop from chef Shigetoshi Nakamura, known for clear shoyu, rich tontoro tonkotsu, and an XO miso vegan bowl. The space is tiny but calm, with table service and quietly precise bowls that attract repeat locals and visiting ramen fans alike.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tontoro Tonkotsu Ramen, Shoyu Ramen, XO Miso Vegan Ramen
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Chef-driven bowls in a tiny room focused on precise broths.
Who should go: Ramen purists who like focused menus and small spaces.
When to visit: Early evenings or late lunches to minimize wait times.
What to order: Tontoro tonkotsu, shoyu ramen, XO miso vegan bowl.
Insider tip: Come solo or as a pair; larger groups struggle to fit.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; expect difficulty after 6pm on Clinton Street. Best bet is metered parking on side blocks or a paid garage on Essex if you don’t want to circle.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable. Most guests come in everyday wear—hoodies, jackets, jeans—no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate. The tiny room stays lively but controlled; you can hold a conversation without shouting.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes depending on weather and peak ramen season; the dining room is only 18 seats.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait or a brief 5–10 minute pause during the early afternoon rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several small plates and the XO miso ramen can be tailored to vegetarian preferences.
Vegan options: Yes—the XO miso vegan bowl is a dedicated option, and staff can guide modifications for sides.
Gluten-free options: Limited—broths are generally gluten-free, but noodles are not. No dedicated gluten-free ramen noodles offered.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, but only for a low-key date. The room is intimate and calm, great for conversation, but the tight layout and quick service lean more toward a relaxed, cozy outing rather than a long, lingering evening.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Nakamura does not rely on reservations. Arrive early evening or later at night for the best chance at walking in without a significant wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat. The space is very small with tight seating, so it’s best for older kids who can manage counter-style dining. No dedicated children’s menu or stroller space.
Best For
Better for: Precise, chef-crafted broths and a calmer environment than many LES ramen shops. Ideal for solo diners and purists who appreciate thoughtful, minimalist bowls.
Skip if: You want large-group dining, very fast turnover, or gluten-free noodles—other LES spots handle crowd capacity and dietary flexibility better.