Hakata Issei Ichidai — Restaurant in Fukuoka

One of the top-tier famed tonkotsu ramen (noodle in pork bone broth) shops in Fukuoka. The shop is famous with their rich and creamy tonkotsu broth in the city, which is a must-try shop for ramen and rich broth lovers.

We visited at 11:35 a.m while there were still plenty of seats and soon became full at noon. There are ipads on each table for placing orders and we ordered tonkotsu cha-shu(extra meat) ramen, chicken broth cha-shu ramen and a half dish of gyoza(pork dumplings).

The smell of the pork broth is so strong that we can smell it as far as in the Higashi-hie subway station under the shop. The broth is richer than any shop we visited in Japan, yet not oily or too thick to drink. It is pleasing that the broth is not so salty, but with a natural sweetness that is a bit similar to the taste of a lobster bisque. The bubble on the broth is not impurities from the meat and bone, but is made by blenders in a way that similar to the milk foam on a coffee, which is for improving the taste and the texture of the broth. There are also a bottle of roasted sesame on the table, which is a nice match with the pork broth.

For the chicken broth, it is also richer than average but a bit salty than the pork broth. The gyoza is outstanding, as the skin is not too thick and is moderately crispy, which will not be a burden to one's stomach.

The cashier is on a convenient self-serve basis. The staff will leave a receipt with the amount due and barcode when serving the food. To check the bill, simply go to the cashing machine near to the entrance and choose your payment method (cash or e-wallet) then scan the barcode to pay.

Issei Ichidai is an exceptional ramen shop and is worth its reputation. It definitely becomes a reason for us to visit Fukuoka again.

Tip: The smell of the broth is so strong that it stayed on our clothes for the entire day. Better put your coat in the bag before entering...

I visited Hakata Issei Ichidai out of curiosity, eager to try the famous tonkotsu. The broth was rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. It felt like a true dive into the culinary soul of Fukuoka. From the moment you approach the restaurant, a strong smell wafts through the air, likely from fermented miso. 😅 It can be surprising, even off-putting to those unfamiliar with it, but it sets the tone for what’s to come. Ordering is simple thanks to the touchscreen tablet system, and table service is quick. The portion size per bowl is consistent with what you'd expect from other ramen shops. 👍 Overall, it was a great culinary experience. The intense aroma is part of the charm, and perhaps even part of the challenge,...

When I left the shop, I found my glove had lost. I return to the restaurant immediately. When I came back, their staff had kept it carefully already. Their action is so warm. Not only when you are diner, their are so sweet to everybody.

On the other hand, when I ordered a tsukimi carp meatball, that was my first to taste it. Their chef and the customer beside me taught me how to taste it formally.

Also, their smile is the unforgettable award of my visit to...