Kajiken
Kajiken offers authentic Japanese abura soba and ramen in Midtown Manhattan, known for its unique soupless noodle dishes and great value.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Plenty of seats, less crowded.
Kajiken
Best Time
Plenty of seats, less crowded.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Kajiken offers authentic Japanese abura soba and ramen in Midtown Manhattan, known for its unique soupless noodle dishes and great value.
"A must-try for its unique abura soba and generous portions at affordable prices in Midtown!"
🎯 Try the Soupless Ramen
Abura soba is Kajiken's specialty – a flavorful, saucy noodle dish!
💰 Great Value in Midtown
Affordable prices for generous portions, especially for meat bowls.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Abura Soba
Experience soupless ramen where rich sauces coat perfectly bouncy noodles. A must-try unique dish!
Niku Soba
A satisfying bowl with thick, curly noodles, tender chashu, and a perfectly cooked egg.
Appetizers
Don't skip the crispy fried oysters (kaki fry) and savory takoyaki!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Abura Soba
Midtown Location Perks
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Try the Soupless Ramen
Abura soba is Kajiken's specialty – a flavorful, saucy noodle dish! +1
💰 Great Value in Midtown
Affordable prices for generous portions, especially for meat bowls. +1
🍜 Build Your Own Bowl
Customize your ramen with various toppings and sauces for a personalized meal.
🍤 Don't Miss Appetizers
Kaki fry (fried oysters) and takoyaki are highly recommended starters. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Try the Soupless Ramen
Abura soba is Kajiken's specialty – a flavorful, saucy noodle dish! +1
💰 Great Value in Midtown
Affordable prices for generous portions, especially for meat bowls. +1
🍜 Build Your Own Bowl
Customize your ramen with various toppings and sauces for a personalized meal.
🍤 Don't Miss Appetizers
Kaki fry (fried oysters) and takoyaki are highly recommended starters. +1
📅 Easy Reservations
Use Yelp for reservations; they're communicative about delays.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kajiken is praised for its unique abura soba, generous portions, and affordable prices in a prime Midtown location. While some reviewers note minor issues like ramen temperature or broth saltiness, the overall experience is highly positive, with many returning for the delicious food and friendly service. The festive decor also adds to the enjoyable dining atmosphere.
"I visited on a weekday around noon, and although it was lunchtime, there were still plenty of seats available. I ordered the NIKU SOBA and was fully satisfied with everything—the flavor, the portion size, the quality of the thick curly noodles, the chashu, and the soft-boiled egg. The temperature felt just a bit on the cooler side, but still perfectly enjoyable.
They offer lunch sets, but I ordered the SUKIYAKI DON on its own. It didn’t blow me away, but it was definitely tasty. The restaurant is still quite new, clean, and well-maintained, and the service was friendly and attentive. Overall, a great experience."
T Mae
"It’s a good find while exploring the city when craving for Japanese food. All food we had is quite authentic and delicious. They definitely look tempting. Love the spicy Tonkotsu, soup is rich and tasty, very fulfilling. Don is zesty too. Good place to dine in for delicious food and comfortable environment with lovely decor."
Tan Tang
"Went to both the San Mateo, CA shop and this one in NYC. Taste is just as great but I preferred the NYC shop for its festive decoration and location close to Bryant Park. Noodles were amazing and the fried squid was perfect. Excellent service team. Thanks 🙏. Did wish the ramen to have a hotter temperature. Still, excellent shop for friends and family 😎"
M H
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kajiken is conveniently located in Midtown Manhattan at 1001 6th Ave, New York, NY 10018. It's easily accessible by subway, with several stations nearby, including those serving the B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W, and 7 lines. +1
Yes, Kajiken is located very close to Bryant Park, making it a great spot to grab a meal before or after visiting the park. +1
The subway is generally the most efficient way to reach Kajiken in Midtown Manhattan. Consider using apps like Citymapper or Google Maps to find the best route based on your starting point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While walk-ins are possible, making a reservation via Yelp is recommended, especially for busy times. They are good at communicating any delays.
Operating hours can vary, so it's best to check their website or a reliable review platform for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
There is no cover charge or entry fee to dine at Kajiken. You only pay for the food and drinks you order.
Yes, Kajiken offers online ordering for pickup, which is a convenient option if you want to enjoy their ramen elsewhere.
🎫 🍜 Onsite Experience
Kajiken is most famous for its abura soba, a delicious soupless ramen that emphasizes the quality of the noodles and rich sauces. They also offer traditional ramen and various Japanese appetizers. +2
The Abura Soba is a signature dish. For a hearty option, try the Niku Soba. Popular appetizers include Kaki Fry (fried oysters) and Takoyaki. +1
Some reviewers mention that the ramen temperature can be on the cooler side, but it's still enjoyable. It's recommended to let the ingredients sit in the broth to absorb heat.
Kajiken has a lively, bright, and bustling atmosphere, especially during peak hours. The decor is often described as festive and comfortable. +1
Yes, Kajiken is considered an excellent shop for friends and family, offering a good dining experience for groups.
🍽️ 💰 Food & Dining
Abura soba is a Japanese noodle dish that is served without broth. Instead, the noodles are tossed in a flavorful sauce, often with various toppings like meat, egg, and vegetables. +1
Kajiken is known for its affordable prices, especially for Midtown Manhattan. Many meat bowls are under $20, offering great value for the portion size and quality. +1
While Kajiken specializes in meat-based ramen and abura soba, it's always a good idea to check their current menu or ask staff about potential vegetarian modifications or options.
Kajiken offers a selection of popular Japanese appetizers, including Takoyaki (octopus balls), Gyoza (dumplings), Karaage (fried chicken), and Kaki Fry (fried oysters). +2
Reviews for the Tonkotsu ramen are mixed. Some find the broth visibly creamy and solid, while others note it can be a tad too salty with less broth than expected.
📸 📸 Photography
The Abura Soba bowls are visually appealing with their colorful toppings and saucy noodles. Appetizers like Kaki Fry and Takoyaki also make for great photos. +1
Yes, Kajiken offers a vibrant and well-decorated interior, and the dishes are presented attractively, making it a good spot for food photography.
Visiting during off-peak hours like weekday lunch can provide better lighting and fewer distractions for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the focus is on ramen, the Donburi (rice bowls) might be a good alternative for children who prefer rice. The restaurant's Midtown location also makes it a convenient stop for families exploring the city. It's advisable to check the menu for spice levels if your children are sensitive to heat.
💰 Budget Travelers
Many main dishes, including meat-focused bowls, are priced under $20, making it possible to enjoy a filling and delicious Japanese meal without overspending. The combination of quality and price makes it a top recommendation for those watching their expenses.
🍜 Ramen Enthusiasts
Beyond the abura soba, they also serve traditional ramen styles like Tonkotsu and Shoyu, allowing enthusiasts to explore different facets of Japanese noodle soup. The quality of the noodles and the thoughtful preparation of toppings are consistently praised.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Abura Soba
Unlike soup ramen, abura soba allows the distinct flavors of each topping to shine through without being diluted by broth. Diners can often customize their bowls with various meats, vegetables, and a soft-boiled egg, creating a personalized and satisfying meal. The emphasis is on the texture of the noodles and the concentrated taste of the sauce, making it a favorite for those who appreciate a different take on ramen.
Many visitors find abura soba to be a revelation, appreciating its unique preparation and the depth of flavor achieved without a liquid base. It's a testament to the versatility of ramen and a must-try for any noodle enthusiast visiting Kajiken.
Value and Portions in Midtown
This affordability doesn't come at the expense of portion size. Customers consistently report that the bowls are generous and filling, offering a great price-to-portion ratio. For instance, many meat-inclusive bowls are available for under $20, making it an accessible option for a satisfying meal.
This combination of delicious food, unique specialties like abura soba, and reasonable pricing makes Kajiken a standout choice for both locals and tourists looking for authentic Japanese cuisine without breaking the bank.
Beyond Ramen: Appetizers and More
Among the most popular appetizers are the Kaki Fry (deep-fried oysters), often served with a flavorful dipping sauce, and the Takoyaki (octopus balls), a classic Japanese street food. Other favorites include Karaage (Japanese fried chicken) and Gyoza (dumplings).
Beyond ramen and appetizers, Kajiken also offers other Japanese staples like Donburi (rice bowls), such as the Sukiyaki Don, which reviewers have found to be tasty. This variety ensures there's something for everyone, making Kajiken a well-rounded destination for Japanese food lovers.
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