长兴

This was the nicest ramen restaurant I've been to in years, and I mean nice like KIND. The food was incredible, don't get me wrong, but there were so many little things that made it feel wonderful inside. The bathroom is through the kitchen, but they still let you go inside, and there are toys on the sill. The music is classic rock hits from your childhood. The prices are so so reasonable! Did I mention the food is incredible?

Ok, so, here's the thing. The food won't blow your mind away. It's comfort food, with a very good quality-price ratio given today's NYC standards. The place has an authentic character, and transports you to Japan instantly. It's been a neighborhood staple forever, and it's ran single-handedly by Kei and his wife. Don't expect speed, but also, you won't be rushed out. Some dishes are better, for example, the curry-based ramens are tastier and have a bit more to them than the shoyu and miso ones. The house sake for $7 per carafe is pretty good. It's a business worth supporting, even though it might not be all you would love it to be. These places are disappearing from our streets...!

The vibe is relaxed and perfect for unwinding after a night out. It’s right in the heart of the East Village, and the owner is incredibly kind and welcoming. Food: Where do I even begin with the ramen? It’s phenomenal. One bowl in and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to the streets of Japan, craving something warm and comforting. Absolutely mouthwatering, I was ready for a nap afterward. The gyoza is just as impressive. I’m usually hesitant because it’s often overfried at other spots nearby, but this was shockingly fresh and perfectly cooked. Highly recommend the pork shoyu ramen and the gyoza. Plus, the lunch specials are available on weekends too, such a steal!

Walking into Cho-Ko feels more like stepping into someone's home than a restaurant. Ran by a single man, he will greet you, take your order, cook your food, and serve you your food. In a sea of restaurants trying to impress you with their decorum, their service, and their ingenuity, and their fancy plating. We forget that there are places that exists just to simply serve you food. I ordered the Wontons as my starter and a good old fashioned plate of Yakisoba. Ten wontons were served inside a small bowl, swimming in a salted broth. The Yakisoba was not trying to be anything else. It is comparable to the ones that you would get at a cart during a seasonal festival in Japan. Simple. I dont think anything here was impressive. Its just good affordable food.

Humble, quiet, independently-owned spot. Nothing fancy but cozy, traditional home-cooking! It's run by one older gentleman named Kei on his own. When I went, it was empty, and he shuffled out to meet me. If he doesn't come out to instantly greet you, he is cooking an order at the back. People who frequent seem to know all this and seat themselves patiently. Can enjoy some ramen while watching life float by the window. Come support Kei and Cho-Ko!