You say ppudo! I’m gonna keep this one straight and to the point. Ippudo – 65 4th Ave. is fantastic. There’s been a run of Asian chains to hit the city in recent years (ie: Kyochon – 319 5th Ave.) but none, in my humble opinion, compare the Ippudo. This always-packed, always-delicious spot a few blocks south of Union Square churns out quality fare to a large, hungry audience on a nightly basis. Succulent fall-off-the-bone Samurai Ribs, Scallops in delicious ponzu (listed on the menu as Hotate Ponzu), and the uber-fantastic Agedashi Tofu all serve as the perfect run-up to the restaurants creme de la creme – Ramen. Pick and choose between seven differently prepared Ramen or go with a group and try them all. All this and a bottle of Sake make a night at Ippudo one to remember.

*There is one problem. The wait can be LONG. But here’s a tip: Stop by the early on the day you want to go. If it’s at least 2 hours in advance, they take reservations!