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Takumi Ramen
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Takumi Ramen
7.7
A Pilsen ramen counter built around straightforward bowls and a cozy, quick-turn rhythm—ideal before a show or as a simple weeknight fix. Order one tonkotsu-style bowl as your anchor, add one extra topping or side, and stop there to keep the meal clean and satisfying.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tonkotsu ramen, Spicy tonkotsu ramen, Miso ramen
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 7
Consistency: 7.2
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 6.9
What makes it special: Direct, brothy ramen bowls in a quick, cozy Pilsen setup.
Who should go: Ramen people and solo diners
When to visit: Weeknight dinner for the shortest wait
What to order: Tonkotsu ramen, spicy tonkotsu, miso ramen
Insider tip: Pick one bowl per person—split a side only if you’re still hungry.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered and unmetered street parking nearby; generally manageable on weekdays, tighter during weekend evenings.
Dress code: Casual and practical — jeans, sneakers, and everyday wear are the norm.
Noise level: Low to moderate — easy to have a conversation, especially off-peak.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes during peak hours; faster if dining solo or early.
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait most days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — vegetarian ramen options are typically available.
Vegan options: Limited — may be possible with specific ramen bases and topping adjustments, but not a full vegan-focused menu.
Gluten-free options: Limited — broths and noodles generally contain gluten; best for diners avoiding strict GF requirements.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It can work for a low-pressure, casual first date, but it’s more about comfort and efficiency than romance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s a walk-in-focused spot with relatively quick turnover, especially for one or two people.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids who enjoy noodles and broth; the setup is simple with no dedicated kids’ menu.
Best For
Better for: Quick, reliable ramen bowls with a calm, solo-friendly pace and straightforward flavors.
Skip if: You’re looking for elaborate toppings, long tasting-style meals, or a high-energy group dining scene.
Takumi Ramen
8.3
A Pilsen ramen-and-yakitori spot that leans into garlic-sweet tonkotsu and a small set of sides that land best when you keep the order tight. The bowl that hits is the house tonkotsu, and the move is pairing it with one skewer-style side so you get both broth depth and grilled texture without over-ordering.
Must-Try Dishes:
Takumi Tonkotsu Ramen, Spicy Miso Ramen, Pork Belly Yakitori
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Garlic-sweet tonkotsu ramen plus legit yakitori-style sides in Pilsen.
Who should go: Ramen fans pre-show at Thalia Hall
When to visit: Weeknights before 7 for easiest seating
What to order: Tonkotsu ramen, spicy miso, pork belly yakitori
Insider tip: Order one bowl and one skewer-side—don’t sprawl the ticket.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; limited availability on 18th St, especially after 6pm. Expect some circling during peak dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual to smart-casual. Jeans and sneakers are common; date-night casual fits the room.
Noise level: Moderate. Lively but you can hold a normal conversation at the table.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes during peak hours without a reservation
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait most days
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited. One or two vegetarian-friendly ramen or small-plate options may be available, but the menu is meat-forward.
Vegan options: Very limited. Not a vegan-focused kitchen; confirm current options before committing.
Gluten-free options: Not ideal. Ramen noodles and most dishes contain gluten; accommodations are minimal.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, especially if you like cozy, energetic rooms. The ramen-focused menu keeps ordering simple, and the yakitori adds shareable appeal without feeling awkward.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes on weeknights or early evenings. On weekends, arriving before peak dinner hours gives you the best shot without waiting too long.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for teens than young kids. The menu is approachable, but the space and vibe skew more toward adults and date-night diners.
Best For
Better for: Rich, garlic-forward tonkotsu and the added bonus of yakitori-style sides in a stylish Pilsen setting.
Skip if: You want a broad vegetarian/vegan ramen selection or a quiet, spacious dining room—simpler noodle shops may suit those needs better.