This new ramen spot in Bras Basah is for you if you are a fan of meats and rich tonkotsu broths. Hanamaruken Ramen is a popular ramen chain founded in 1982 in Osaka and has now set up its space at the Lazada One building, a brief stroll from the MRT station.
With its close proximity to SMU, SMU staff and students can also enjoy a discount here just by flashing the relevant staff/student pass.
Signature Happiness Ramen 4/5
The highlight of the ramen menu is definitely their Signature Happiness Ramen ($22.80 for regular, $19.80 for junior), served with braised marbled soft bone pork rib alongside thin handmade noodles, bamboo shoot, nori and shoyu-flavoured tamago.
Unlike the usual tonkotsu broths that shout pork flavours, Hanamaruken's rendition has a distinct added touch of umami shoyu. Made of chicken and pork bones, the broth was simmered for at least 9 hours with a mix of spices and other ingredients. I enjoyed how creamy and nicely balanced it was without being overly salty.
The massive slab of braised marbled soft bone pork rib was prepared by stewing for long hours, resulting in even its soft cartilage. While the meat was fork-tender, I found it too fatty and heavy for my liking. You'd enjoy this if you are a fan of such rich cuts.
Double Happiness Ramen 4.2/5
For a greater variety of pork, try the Double Happiness Ramen ($19.80), which will include both a cut of the pork soft bone and two thick chashu slices. My dining companion and I preferred the chashu more for its better balance of fat and tender meat.
Apart from these two pork-focused bowls, the restaurant also offers Miso Ramen, Seafood Ramen and Tan Tan Ramen.
Chahan Japanese Fried Rice 4/5
The owners enthusiastically shared with us about the Chahan Japanese Fried Rice ($9.80) being one of their favourite items on the menu. We can see why, as the Japanese pearl rice was fragrantly fried with eggs and bits of pork without being greasy. That said, I prefer my fried rice to be dry, while this leaned just a touch more wet.
Gyoza 4/5
Diners can choose from a couple of sides such as Chicken Karaage, Ebi Tempura and hand-made Gyoza ($8.80 for 6pcs, $15.80 for 12pcs). The crisp wrap was delightful, but the filling could be more generous.
Artisanal Sparkling Tea 4.5/5
I thoroughly enjoyed the special range of Artisanal Sparkling Tea ($6.80) that the restaurant offers. Available on tap in three flavours - Osmanthus Squirrel, "Unknown Fragrance" and Lychee Red Tea, the owners introduced them as they found it to complement their ramen well.
I loved how each tea had a unique profile, and provided a refreshing break from the intensely rich ramen.
Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.
Hanamaruken Ramen
Lazada One
#01-07
51 Bras Basah Road
Singapore 189554
Nearest MRT: Bras Basah (CC Line), Bencoolen (DT Line)
Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm
Direction:
1) Alight at Bencoolen MRT station. Take Exit C. Turn left and walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]
2) Alight at Bras Basah MRT station. Take Exit D or E. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]
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