Saturday, August 29, 2009

Highlight #223: Awesome bowl of ramen (Singapore)

Central is a big mall-ish cylindrical building near the Quay in Singapore. Rather than a variety of chain stores, it houses mostly Japanese food establishments. A couple of years ago, a transplant from Saitama arrived here, specializing in ramen. Rather than the usual selection of soup bases such as shio, miso, etc., the basic ramen here is served with a chicken stock bubbling away in large cauldrons. The ramen itself is of a very skinny kind that is quickly cooked to just al dente and stays that way for quite a while.

Some call this the best bowl of ramen in Singapore. Having not tried other ramens here, I have no idea if that's true. But for its style, it is indeed awesome. In particular, the soup base has a great deal of depth beyond just salty. In the normal bowl seen here, there is just one slice of kakuni or pork belly, but it is melt in the mouth good. For me, one is enough due to richness, but I see many that can put away lots, which can be ordered as additions. Another favorite topping is the soft boiled egg having a bright orange and runny center.

In addition to ramen, we also tried an order to gyoza. Simply boiled, these little ones are delicate on the outside and soft on the inside. Plenty of garlic chives help to cut through the richness of the pork filling. The slight spiciness of the dipping sauce is also very appetite enhancing.

I've already put this place down for repeat visits on future trips.

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