Ivan Ramen

"Will Ivan Ramen’s Spicy Red Chili Ramen burn a hole in your esophagus? Don’t worry about that now. For the time being, just eat your way through this very hot ramen until tears drip down your face. They do have non-spicy options too, and the lively Lower East Side space is a fun place for a small group dinner. They also do delivery from a shared kitchen in Brooklyn, if you need to eat your Spicy Red Chili Ramen alone at home." - will hartman, willa moore, sonal shah, neha talreja, kenny yang

"Expect innovative, consistently satisfying food at this Lower East Side ramen joint from Long Island native Ivan Orkin, who rose to fame via his two ramen shops in Tokyo. Opt for the deftly constructed shio or shoyo ramens, or, for a more decadent meal, try the triple pork, triple garlic mazemen or unconventional, lamb-filled take on Sichuan dan dan noodles. While Ivan Ramen takes reservations along with walk-ins, the vibe is usually more low-key at lunch, which can be had at any hour of the afternoon — it stays open starting at 12:30 p.m. daily (except Mondays, when it’s closed). Plus, the enclosed back garden seating area is sun-filled in the daytime." - Alexandra Ilyashov

"Ramen delivery and takeout available - call or order through their website." - hannah albertine, nikko duren, bryan kim, arden shore, matt tervooren

"After opening a series of successful ramen shops in Tokyo, Ivan Orkin could not have picked a better location for his NY flagship. Indie rock beats, designer tees, and murals of manga cutouts come together seamlessly at this Clinton Street spot; and from solo stools along the wall to counter seats facing the kitchen, the snug little space has packed in the crowds since opening in 2014.Starters like crispy eggplant with tahini and charred garlic or cold sesame noodles with roasted peppers showcase the chef's preference for flair and flavor. Ordering ramen is non-negotiable. Friendly servers will push the house favorite—chicken paitan with shio kombu and egg yolk, but the classic tonkotsu with shoyu-glazed chashu and black garlic oil is a bolder delight." - Michelin Inspector

"Ivan Ramen, the popular Lower East Side ramen shop, is now operating out of a shared kitchen in Brooklyn overseen by Doordash." - Luke Fortney