RAKKAN Ramen: Meet Founder Ryohei Ito
We sat down with Founder Ryohei Ito of RAKKAN Ramen. Elevate your experience with a dashi bomb, as they slowly simmer vegetables like kombu to extract deep umami flavors. The broth is entirely plant-based, yet offers a rich, thick taste reminiscent of Tonkotsu broth. Enjoy the delightful fusion of this savory Japanese broth with silky noodles for an unparalleled culinary pleasure.
Image Courtesy: RAKKAN Ramen
Tell us about what your morning routine looks like, and how you like to end your day?
I wake up around 7 AM and eat Japanese food (such as natto, fried eggs, and rice). After that, I take care of administrative tasks like e-mails, do some light exercise, and start work. In the evening, I do yoga and enjoy a light drink.
Image Courtesy: RAKKAN Ramen
Do you have any awards or achievements you’d like to mention?
Our flagship store in Tokyo has received awards such as “100 Famous Restaurants” and the “Tabelog Award.”
Do you have a favorite chef that you look up to and what advice would you give to aspiring chefs?
I have great respect for those who take cooking seriously. For aspiring chefs, mastering the fundamentals is crucial, so I recommend dedicating a proper period to training. After that it's important to showcase your individuality and originality to create dishes that truly move your customers.
Image Courtesy: RAKKAN Ramen
What do you typically cook at home for yourself or your family?
I cook a variety of Japanese dishes, pasta, Chinese cuisine, and meat dishes.
What’s a food trend that you’re loving right now and why?
Hot pot dishes. They allow you to absorb all essential nutrients and are gentle on the gut.
What’s the strangest food combination you’ve ever tried? And, did you like it?
The strangest combination I've tried is karasumi (dried mullet roe) with miso and cream cheese. Since fermented foods generally pair well together, it makes for an excellent snack with alcohol.
What cocktail or beverage do you enjoy most?
Natural wine and shochu with soda.
Have you ever cooked for a celebrity? Do you have a story to tell?
Many famous people visit the flagship RAKKAN location in Nishiazabu discreetly.
Image Courtesy: RAKKAN Ramen
What’s your Instagram so readers can follow you?
It’s @ryohei_ito_rakkan
Why should readers visit RAKKAN Ramen?
RAKKAN Ramen is a restaurant and cuisine created by a Japanese person who grew up in Japan and refined it through trial and error in the U.S. We take pride in our Japanese heritage and strive to serve delicious food.