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Totto Ramen

4.7
·799 reviews·New York, United States

Authentic Japanese ramen shop known for its rich, creamy chicken paitan broth and cozy atmosphere.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
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Totto Ramen - Image 1

Totto Ramen

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Authentic Japanese ramen shop known for its rich, creamy chicken paitan broth and cozy atmosphere.

4.7
(799 reviews)

"This place really transports! The interior is small and very similar to ramen shops you'd find in Japan."

Vertical photo
TIP

🍜 Savor the Chicken Broth

Don't miss the signature chicken paitan broth; it's a creamy, comforting flavor unlike typical pork broths.

🥟 Try the Pork Buns

These fluffy buns with tender pork are a highly recommended appetizer.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Chicken Paitan Broth

Chicken Paitan Broth

A signature rich, creamy, and comforting chicken broth simmered for hours. It's a lighter yet deeply flavorful alternative to pork-based broths.

Mega Paitan Ramen

Mega Paitan Ramen

A generously portioned bowl featuring the signature chicken broth, often praised for its depth of flavor and satisfying richness.

Pork Buns

Pork Buns

Often described as a must-try, these fluffy buns are filled with tender, flavorful pork and are a popular appetizer.

Spicy Ramen Options

Spicy Ramen Options

For those who like a kick, Totto offers spicy versions of their ramen, featuring a housemade spicy paste that adds a delightful heat.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Chicken Broth

Totto Ramen is renowned for its rich, creamy chicken-based broth, a departure from the more common pork tonkotsu. Many reviewers highlight its subtle yet comforting flavor, making it a unique ramen experience. Don't expect a heavy, porky broth; instead, savor the delicate chicken paitan.

Cozy & Compact Seating

Expect a classic Japanese ramen shop vibe with intimate, often high-top bar seating overlooking the kitchen. While this creates an engaging atmosphere, some find the seating less than comfortable. Arrive early or be prepared for a cozy, close-quarters dining experience, especially during peak hours.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
Happy Hour (Mon-Fri, 12-6:30pm)
Why
Great deals on drinks and discounts
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings
Why
Cozy atmosphere, but can get busy
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Noodles are Sarah's favorite food in the world, so we're bringing back Need Noodles Now and starting at Toribro Ramen. Toribro Ramen 366 W 52nd St, New York, NY 10019 We are going to try as many noodle dishes as possible and see which ones end up being our favorites, this will be a running series going forward. #creatorsearchinsights #japanesefood #japanese #ramen #nycfood #nyceats #nyc #nycrest...
@itsjulianmu
17.6K likes • 157.4K views

🍜 Savor the Chicken Broth

Don't miss the signature chicken paitan broth; it's a creamy, comforting flavor unlike typical pork broths. Instagram

🥟 Try the Pork Buns

These fluffy buns with tender pork are a highly recommended appetizer. Instagram

📍Toribro ramen #nycramen #nycfoodie #nycfoodrecs #nychiddengems #nycrestaurants
@felieats
10.8K likes • 383.6K views
Hello mi Gente!!! Hoy les quiero presentar al lugar que me hizo enamorarme del Ramen hace aproximadamente unos 5 años 🥹, este es Totto Ramen (@totto_ramen), un restaurante japonesa que se especializa en la realización de estas magnificas sopas 🫶🏾 En esta ocasión visité su local de Hell’s Kitchen, el cual es pequeñito pero acogedor, con una cocina abierta donde se puede ver como preparan los ramen...
laurisima.dr
11 likes • 714 views

🌶️ Spice It Up!

Ask for their spicy paste to add a delicious kick to your ramen. TikTok

💡 Finish with Rice

Genius move: add rice and toppings to soak up the leftover broth. Reddit

Colder weather means it Ramen Time! Kicked off fall off by heading to Totto Ramen. Totto Ramen’s broth is a rich chicken based broth simmered for several hours which leaves it with a rich almost creamy broth without the heaviness a pork based ramen can sometimes have. This visit we ordered Pork Bun 🍗Spicy Fried chicken 🍜 Miso Ramen 🍜 Spicy Ramen @totto_ramen . . . . . . . #wheresfula #tottorame...
fula97
30 likes • 562 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🍜 Savor the Chicken Broth

Don't miss the signature chicken paitan broth; it's a creamy, comforting flavor unlike typical pork broths. Instagram

🥟 Try the Pork Buns

These fluffy buns with tender pork are a highly recommended appetizer. Instagram

🌶️ Spice It Up!

Ask for their spicy paste to add a delicious kick to your ramen. TikTok

💡 Finish with Rice

Genius move: add rice and toppings to soak up the leftover broth. Reddit

💰 Happy Hour Savings

Take advantage of happy hour for discounted drinks and ramen. Reddit

🪑 Cozy Seating

Expect intimate, high-top seating; it's part of the authentic ramen shop experience. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(799 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Totto Ramen is praised for its authentic Japanese ramen shop atmosphere and its signature, rich chicken paitan broth, which many find comforting and uniquely flavorful. Diners also enjoy the delicious pork buns and the clever option to finish their soup with rice. However, some find the seating to be cramped and less comfortable, and portion sizes for certain ingredients like char siu can be perceived as small.

"Ambiance (4/5): This is a classic Japanese ramen shop feel—tight high top bar seating that overlooks the kitchen. There are a few tables on the side as well. It was cool seeing the solo chef prepare all the moving parts. Sadly, I did not feel like the seating was very comfortable, as the bottom part moved around on its own and there is no backing.
Service (5/5): Came in on a Friday afternoon and there was only 2 or 3 other solo patrons so I was attended to throughout my experience.
Toriburo Spicy (3/5): The noodles were a bit on the undercooked side so a little more chewy (which I like/prefer!) I like the homemade spicy paste that gave the dish another level of flavor! For the price point, I was definitely hoping that the pork charsiu piece would be a little more generous in portion size—however it’s really only 2 small slices. The flavor was there and a good blend of meat to fat ratio but just really to meager. The dish also does not come with any egg. I think I was hoping for a bit more flavor in the broth to wow me but it’s admittedly hard to compare paitan to tonkontsu.
Happy Hour pricing Monday to Friday 12-6:30pm during the summer looks like $3-4 discounts off beers/sake!"

Steph W

"This place really transports!

The interior is small and very similar to ramen shops you’d find in Japan.

Menu is straight to the point and offers a quality selection of assorted broths. Their inhouse char-shiu chicken/pork is really tasty.

They also have a “add rice + topping” to finish off your soup once you finish your noodles (genius!)

Happy hour prices looked super reasonable and will definitely try to stop by again"

Daniel Lee

"Pretty good ramen, and a decent spicy sauce. Not outstanding, but definitely worth checking. Pretty small place, just two tables and bar stools."

Dariusz Jemielniak (Pundit)

What People Like

Signature chicken paitan broth
Authentic ramen shop vibe
Delicious pork buns

What People Dislike

Cramped seating
Small char siu portions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Totto Ramen has multiple locations in NYC, including Hell's Kitchen and Midtown East. The Hell's Kitchen location is accessible via subway lines A, C, E to 50th St or 1, 2 to 50th St. Midtown East is near Grand Central Terminal. Check your preferred navigation app for the closest Totto Ramen to your location. TikTokInstagram+3

Yes, Totto Ramen locations are generally well-served by public transportation in NYC. Subway lines are the most convenient way to reach most of their branches. TikTokInstagram+3

Yes, Totto Ramen also has locations in Boston and Fairfield, CA, offering their signature ramen experience in different cities. Instagram+3

Use a mapping service like Google Maps and search for 'Totto Ramen near me'. This will show you the closest locations and their operating hours. Reddit

Yes, Totto Ramen offers delivery services. You can typically order through third-party delivery apps or their website. TikTokInstagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Reservations are generally not required, especially for their smaller, more casual locations. However, during peak hours, you might experience a wait. Instagram

Operating hours vary by location. It's best to check the specific hours for the Totto Ramen branch you plan to visit on their website or a mapping service. Instagram

No, there is no admission fee to enter Totto Ramen. You only pay for the food and drinks you order. Instagram

Wait times can vary significantly. Weekday afternoons are usually less crowded, while weekend evenings and lunchtimes can see longer waits. Reddit

Yes, Totto Ramen typically offers takeout options, allowing you to enjoy their ramen at home. Instagram

🎫 🍜 Onsite Experience

Totto Ramen offers a classic Japanese ramen shop ambiance, often featuring intimate, high-top bar seating overlooking an open kitchen. It's cozy and can feel like a direct experience of the ramen-making process. InstagramReddit

The Chicken Paitan broth is a signature. Popular choices include the Mega Paitan Ramen and various spicy ramen options. The Toriburo Spicy is also frequently mentioned. TikTokInstagram+2

Yes, Totto Ramen offers vegetarian broth options and allows customization with various toppings, including vegan choices. Instagram

Portion sizes can be perceived as moderate. While the broth is rich, some reviewers note that the char siu (pork) portions can be small, and the ramen might come with fewer default vegetables than expected. Reddit

Some diners find the high-top bar seating, while authentic, to be less comfortable due to its compact nature or lack of back support. Reddit

🍽️ 🥢 Food & Dining

The Pork Buns are frequently highlighted as a delicious and must-try appetizer, known for their tender pork filling. Instagram

Totto Ramen's signature is its rich, creamy chicken-based broth, known as chicken paitan. It's simmered for hours to achieve a deep, comforting flavor. Instagram+1

Yes, Totto Ramen often has happy hour pricing, typically Monday to Friday from 12 PM to 6:30 PM, offering discounts on beers and sake. Reddit

Yes, you can customize your ramen with various toppings and choose different broth bases, including vegetarian options. Instagram

Some Totto Ramen locations, like those in Fairfield, also offer sushi and sashimi, alongside appetizers like gyoza and ika geso. Instagram+3

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vibrant bowls of ramen, especially the signature chicken paitan. The open kitchen offers a dynamic backdrop for food prep shots. Instagram+1

Yes, the beautifully presented ramen bowls, the cozy interior, and the open kitchen make Totto Ramen a great spot for Instagram photos. Instagram+2

Lighting can vary. The open kitchen area might be well-lit, but some dining areas can be dimly lit, contributing to the cozy ambiance but potentially requiring a flash or good camera settings. Reddit

Some locations feature unique murals or artistic elements, like the ramen shop mural mentioned in one reel, adding visual interest for photographers. Instagram

Focus on the signature ramen bowls, the popular pork buns, and any unique toppings or garnishes. The colorful sushi rolls are also great subjects if available. Instagram+2

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Totto Ramen can be a fun experience for families, especially if your children enjoy noodles. The open kitchen offers an engaging visual for kids, and the chicken paitan broth is often milder and more approachable than pork-based broths. Consider ordering a spicy ramen for yourself and a milder option for the kids, or share a pork bun appetizer. Instagram+1

Be mindful of the seating, which can be tight and high-top, potentially making it less ideal for very young children. However, the generally friendly service and the comforting nature of ramen can make for a pleasant family meal. Some locations also offer vegetarian options, which can be helpful for picky eaters. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

Totto Ramen can be a good option for budget-conscious travelers, especially if you visit during happy hour. From Monday to Friday, 12 PM to 6:30 PM, you can find discounts on drinks and potentially some food items. Reddit This is a great way to enjoy their signature ramen without breaking the bank. Instagram

Look for deals on beers and sake during happy hour. While the ramen itself is reasonably priced for NYC, happy hour makes it even more accessible. Also, consider the clever tip of adding rice and toppings to finish your broth – it’s a way to get more value from your meal and avoid food waste. Reddit

🍜 Ramen Aficionados

For true ramen lovers, Totto Ramen offers a distinct experience with its signature chicken paitan broth. This focus on a less common, yet deeply flavorful broth is what sets it apart. Explore their various ramen options, including the Mega Paitan and spicy variations, to fully appreciate their craft. Instagram+2

Pay attention to the noodle texture, which some reviewers note can be slightly undercooked, offering a pleasant chewiness. Don't overlook the pork buns as a perfect complement to your ramen. While the ambiance is classic ramen shop, the true draw is the quality and authenticity of the broth and ingredients. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Totto's Chicken Paitan

Totto Ramen distinguishes itself with its signature chicken paitan broth. Unlike the more common pork-based tonkotsu, Totto's broth is a rich, creamy emulsion derived from simmering chicken bones for extended periods. This process extracts collagen and flavor, resulting in a soup that is both deeply satisfying and surprisingly lighter than its pork counterpart. Reviewers often praise its subtle yet profound flavor, noting it as a comforting and unique ramen experience. Instagram+1

This dedication to a specific broth style is a core part of Totto's identity. The broth is the foundation upon which each ramen bowl is built, and its quality is consistently highlighted in customer feedback. Whether you prefer it plain or with added spice, the chicken paitan is the star of the show, offering a distinct taste that sets Totto Ramen apart from many other ramen establishments. Reddit

Navigating the Totto Ramen Experience

The dining environment at Totto Ramen is often described as a classic, intimate Japanese ramen shop. Expect high-top bar seating that allows you to observe the chefs at work in the open kitchen. This setup fosters a lively, engaging atmosphere, though some patrons find the seating less comfortable due to its compact nature or lack of back support. InstagramReddit

Beyond the seating, Totto Ramen offers a straightforward menu with a focus on quality. They are known for their delicious pork buns as an appetizer and a clever option to add rice and toppings to finish off any leftover broth – a genius move to prevent waste and maximize flavor. InstagramReddit The restaurant also offers happy hour specials, making it an attractive option for a more budget-friendly visit, especially on weekday afternoons. Reddit

Beyond Ramen: Sushi and More

While Totto Ramen is celebrated for its noodle soups, some locations expand their culinary offerings to include sushi and sashimi. For instance, the Totto Ramen & Sushi Bar in Fairfield, CA, serves a variety of fresh sushi rolls, including options like the bluefin tuna roll and mango madness roll. Instagram+3

This broader menu allows diners to enjoy a more comprehensive Japanese dining experience. Alongside ramen, you can find appetizers like gyoza and ika geso (fried squid legs), and even a full bar with sake, Japanese beer, and cocktails. This makes Totto Ramen & Sushi Bar a versatile choice for various cravings, whether you're in the mood for a steaming bowl of ramen or delicate sushi creations. Instagram