Ganko Ittetsu Ramen

While still mourning the loss of the delicious MJ Ready Thai curry, Ganko Ittetsu Ramen brings a new energy to the somewhat old-fashioned Arcade in Brookline's Coolidge Corner. Dark and atmospheric with lively music, a few tables, and a couple of bar seats looking into the kitchen. The space has completed transformed. Come early as there might be a wait, especially at peak meal times, closing at 9 PM daily. A short and simple menu - choose from one Sapporo-style ramen bowls. The noodles are thin and slightly chewy with a neutral flavor to soak up the umami broth of the ramen. The dashi (broth) is less salty than some and blended with the stock of pork, chicken, and vegetables. Tan Tan is mildly spicy in a sesame broth with red chili oil, served with napa cabbage, corn, wakame (seaweed), pickled mustard leaf, scallion, and ground pork. Recommend adding extra pork for the meat lovers.

The miso ramen, a signature of Sapporo, is traditional with napa cabbage, bean sprouts, corn, wakame, sliced Berkshire pork, and an egg half. The broth is thinner than some miso ramen but fragrant and flavorful.