Hakata Ramen

I had been wanting to try actual ramen at a ramen restaurant for years, so it's safe to say I went to this restaurant with high expectations. They met all of them. Delicious Ramen, well priced and expertly presented. The restaurant's interior is simple and comfortable. The wait staff is friendly and attentive. Go with an empty belly, portion size is quite ample. I would not hesitate to suggest it to any Ramen enthusiast.

I've eaten here several times in the past year (dine in and take out) and the food is always excellent - fresh, flavorful, and good portions. However, after getting dinner here tonight, I have to change my rating from 5 stars to 4 stars. Most of our food was great (kaarage, katsudon, chirashi), but the yaki ika was chewy and seemed to be boiled instead of grilled (yaki ika literally means "grilled squid"). When we got the check, I was surprised to see that half of the items we ordered had a $2 to $3 upcharge each. When I brought this up, the server cut me off and pointed out that all their menu prices fluctuate and that they don't update their menus with the new prices. Some of their menu items in larger font have hand written stickers with updated prices, but most don't. If the price of some items truly fluctuate on a day-to-day basis, then label it market price, or let the customer know when they order that the price is actually a few dollars more and ask if that is OK. While most of my experiences with Hakata have been positive, this bait-and-switch left a bad taste in my mouth. If you choose to eat here, double check the price before ordering!

The food is awesome! The ladies are super attentive. I can't really complain. I've eaten take out and I've had dine in. You won't be disappointed. Its cozy. The tables are small. They take good care of you. I enjoyed the feeling that it was very underrated but you know it can get packed. You'll enjoy the food.