Mendokoro Ramenba Makati — Restaurant in Makati

My recent visit to Mendokoro Ramenba in Makati was an experience that blended efficiency with exceptional flavor, leaving a lasting impression – and a bit of food for thought regarding value.

Upon arrival, the host greeted me warmly, immediately streamlining the ordering process. Unlike traditional dine-in experiences, Mendokoro requires you to select your order prior to entry, a system designed for speed and efficiency. I was directed to scan their online menu, which offered a surprisingly ample selection of ramen, tsukemen, and other Japanese delights. After a moment of deliberation, my choice was clear: the classic Shoyu Ramen. This pre-ordering method is certainly a departure from the norm, but it undeniably contributes to the restaurant's impressive turnaround time.

Once my order was placed, I was promptly escorted to my preferred seat at the counter, a spot that offers a front-row view of the chefs at work, meticulously crafting each bowl. What also arrived quickly was the bill, to be settled even before the food graced my table. This upfront payment system, while perhaps unconventional for some, further underscores Mendokoro's focus on a swift and seamless dining experience.

When my Shoyu Ramen finally arrived, it was a sight to behold. The first thing I noticed was the soup's remarkable thickness. It wasn't just broth; it was a rich, opaque elixir, promising a depth of flavor that few other ramen places achieve. The noodles, perfectly al dente, offered a delightful chewiness that I personally prefer – a testament to their careful preparation. And the meat? Very savory, melting in my mouth with each bite, perfectly complementing the robust soup. Every spoonful was a revelation, a harmonious blend of umami and rich textures that truly set this ramen apart. Overall, the food was really good, exceeding my expectations in terms of taste and quality.

However, the conversation with my office mates after the meal brought up a crucial point: the price. Their feedback was that "the price can get you in a buffet already." And they're not wrong. Mendokoro's ramen, while undeniably premium in quality, comes with a price tag that positions it squarely as a treat rather than an everyday meal. This really boils down to a choice between quantity or quality. If you're someone who prioritizes a vast array of food options and an all-you-can-eat experience, then a buffet might offer more "value" for your money. But if you're a discerning diner who appreciates the artistry and exceptional quality of a masterfully crafted bowl of ramen, then Mendokoro is an absolute must-try.

In conclusion, Mendokoro Ramenba offers a unique and highly efficient dining experience with ramen that truly stands out for its exceptional quality and rich flavors. It's a place where every component, from the thick broth to the chewy noodles and savory meat, is meticulously prepared. Just be prepared to weigh your priorities: a single, stellar bowl of ramen, or a sprawling buffet. For me, the...

It always pays to arrive early at Mendokoro. They open at 11am and we normally arrive not later than 1130am. It's a 20 seater affair and long queues are expected.

The concept of a top-notch ramen shop was hatched by Ryan Cruz and he initially persuaded Elbert Cuenca to join him as an active investor. He knew that Elbert with his vast experience in restaurant management, which began with the family's Furusato, had a handle on focused menu offerings such as what he does in Elbert's Steakhouse in Sagittarius.

They put up Yushoken or "Champion House" of Ramen in late 2012 at the Molito Lifestyle Center in Alabang. They brought in Ramen masters from Japan to create a signature taste and train future chefs in the preparation of this magnificent Japanese noodle soup. Having lived in the South, we were early patrons. This initially was a "Southern" secret but the quality and great taste of their ramen spread by word-of-mouth till it was visited by foodies from all corners that it was a secret no more.

Once they conquered a discerning clientele in sophisticated Alabang, they set their eyes on the prize by opening in Salcedo Village in Makati in 2014. With the reputation of its Southern twin, Yushoken, Mendokoro Ramenba had a relatively easy time in building a cult following that people lined up then, till they do now, just to have a slurp of their fantastic broth.

After a while, Elbert divested his shares in the twins but like well-oiled machinery, both restaurants run smoothly and they have already captured the taste buds of customers. They both constantly rank as top or near the top of consumer preference for Ramen restaurants.

We ordered three specials that were part of their "secret menu" before. Now, it's readily offered to everyone. Before only those "in the know" would "whisper" their orders.

We had the Super Chashu which had a thick but tender slab of Pork Chashu. It would easily yield to your chopsticks as you break off a piece. You will sing praises at first bite at the depth of smokiness and flavor it has. The broth is so rich and thick that it gives you an idea as to the number of hours the pork bones were simmered to achieve its unique taste. For added measure, some fish bones are mixed in as well.

The Ebi Tonkotsu has seafood written all over. Its broth is flavorful similar to Lobster Bisque. Add in prawns, Kani sticks, squid rings, scallops, some greens and handmade noodles cooked upon order and you've got a winner.

We had their Buta Kakuni which had uber-tender pork belly with proper fat-to-meat ratio. It had a Tantanmen type broth, sprouts and some bamboo. Originally meant as cold noodles, it is now offered hot and spicy.

We also got their mainstay Shoyu with Tamago which happens to be my wife's favorite.

Their Gyozas are top notch and pairs well with Ramen and beer!

Still the reigning, defending Ramen Champs this side of...

Been hearing the hype of the best for a while and heralded as one of THE best ramen in Metro Manila. In a rainy Sunday afternoon, my sis and I finally ventured in the heart of Makati to seek out the place. Thankfully the intense hype of the place has cooled down a bit and the line was not too long. We had about 5 small groups ahead of us but the time from order to seating wasnt too bad, about 15 min at most. Set up for ordering is somewhat similar some Ramenbas I've been in Japan: a counter upfront to get your order in advance, then they give you a number in the line. It's a bar type set up with the "kitchen" at the center. The set up is quick and efficient, and encourages focus on the food and eating and less on socialization. The menu gives a good few choices, but since I'm not familiar with what's good, I asked for the best seller. Got the Shoyu ramen, added tamago and gyoza. On to the food, the gyoza was pair and taste to other gyozas I've had. A bit of a.gripe, our gyoza wasn't properly sealed in its construction so it openes up and some of its filling spilled. No biggie, it was still good. Ah but the centerpiece: the ramen. I can say hands down, it was the best ramen I've had so far, comparable to that in Japan (see my Ichiran ramen review for comparison). The soup was clean, rich, and bold, the taste of pork and grilled meat balanced out without being overpowering. The noodles were firm, as per usual recommendation. A little bit thicker than my personal preferrence but it wasn't an issue. The meat was a single piece of grilled pork belly was soft and melt in your mouth. Overall, my standard for ramen has leveled up.

TLDR: best ramen place I've had so far, comparable to that I've eaten in Japan. Location is not too accesible so if via commuting, it will be a bit...