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Slurping Up Authentic Ramen

A La Carte

October 22, 2017

Story By: Stephanie Kim | Photos by: Lawrence Tabudlo

Vegetable Goyza ($6.50)

Known for its handcrafted ramen bowls and award-winning gyoza, Manichi Ramen has come a long way from its beginnings as a gyoza cart in Japan, back in 1953.

Today, diners on Oahu can find a shop at three locations — on Kona Street, in Ala Moana Center’s Shirokiya Japan Village Walk and in Windward Mall.

The Kona Street eatery, however, differs from the rest since it’s the only independently owned shop on the island, according to manager Chris Jon. He says that this allows the restaurant to serve the traditional menu, as well as have the freedom to change things up and add new items.

Cold Hiyashi Ramen ($10)

Try a best-selling ramen bowl, like Manichi Special Tonkotsu Shibori; or a new special, such as Cold Hiyashi Ramen ($10), featuring menma (bamboo shoots), corn, ham, bean sprouts, light cheddar cheese, soft boiled egg, green onions and ginger on top of cold ramen noodles, and served alongside a sweet and tangy vinegar-shoyu sauce.

GOING GREEN

Customers should always be on the lookout for specialty items at Manichi Ramen, such as Cold Hiyashi Ramen ($10) that provides a refreshing slurp on a hot day. There’s also Vegetable Gyoza ($6.50), a side dish that’s the perfect complement to any meal, especially a vegetarian one like Soy Milk Ramen, and it receives its vibrant, dark green color from spinach powder. Manager Chris Jon shares that, so far, it’s been a big seller with diners, especially those looking for a non-meat option.

Honolulu, HI 96814

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