Ippudo might be a familiar name, considering this ramen brand is on a mission for world domination. From Malaysia to the United Kingdom, Ippudo has solidified itself as a staple in the industry. Naturally, the next step for the team was to widen their demographic. Now, vegans and vegetarians (even you flexitarians) can enjoy the warmth of a signature Japanese meal—without feeling like your order is an afterthought.
Carnivores and omnivores: don’t exclude this option from your repertoire. The biggest misconception about a vegan meal is that it won’t be filling enough and will be overpriced. But that couldn’t be further from the truth at Ippudo V. A skilled chef, clever use of heartier vegetables, and umami-rich spices make all the difference. You’d be surprised to find out your gyoza is sans pork and your ramen noodles aren’t simmered in a bone broth.
From Ippudo to Ippudo V
Ippudo began in 1985 when founder Shigemi Kawahara combined the cool energy of a bar with elevated ramen preparations. He offers a refreshed perspective on the typical cup-of-noodles experience. He turns a dinner scramble into a savored outing that prioritizes socializing and comfort. The “Ramen King” started in Fukuoka City and has since opened over 200 locations around the world. Just two years ago, he opened Ippudo V in Dumbo, Brooklyn. And, with a nickname like Ramen King and multiple championship wins (such as Ramen Master Chef), if anyone is going to promise tasty vegan ramen—and deliver—it’s Kawahara.
The Vibe
The restaurant sits under the Brooklyn Bridge on a quiet corner. When you walk inside, you’re greeted by a gift shop featuring hats, hoodies, and small trinkets designed by Brooklyn-based artists. Past the shop, you’ll find two main dining areas: one with a large, family-style island adjacent to the open kitchen, and a back section with more individualized seating. The space has a loft-like feel, with floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the room with natural light, enhancing the fresh and airy ambiance. A mix of families and friend duos gives Ippudo V a laid-back vibe, while the extensive wine list and sensory-focused dishes serve as gentle reminders of its sophistication.
The true takeaway here is the food. When you come to Ippudo V as a meat-eater, you’re treated to a meal that doesn’t make you miss the meat, still satisfies your Japanese cravings, and keeps you comfortably full. Unlike meat and fish dishes, which can cause sluggishness and bloating, this plant-based menu leaves you energized.
Drinks
Start with a drink from their Sake Sips collection, offered by the glass, carafe, or bottle—ideal for a boozy brunch. Then, explore the Grape Escapes menu, featuring international red, white, and rosé wines, primarily from Austria and California. For Japanese-inspired flavors, try the Mango & Calamansi Kombucha on tap, a yuzu-apple martini, or a sake sangria made with local spirits.
Food
Appetizers
For appetizers, don’t skip the Vrooklyn Gyoza. They taste like pork but are actually made from a flavorful blend of leek, cabbage, soy, and onion. The texture is spot on, and the trio of dipping sauces—soy, mango miso, and cilantro-jalapeño—add a sweet and spicy zing to the crisp outer layer. The Cauliflower Tabbouleh is a refreshing, grain-focused option, with balanced sweetness from dried fruit and a nutty earthiness from walnuts.
Sushi
Next, a sushi roll makes a perfect entrée or second shareable course before your ramen. You’d be surprised how much a vegetable can mimic the taste and texture of fish. The Brooklyn Bridge Roll uses the same grilling technique as eel (kabayaki), transforming eggplant into a tender, sweet topping. Meanwhile, rolls like the Matilda with Leon use pickled radish to replicate the look and flavor of zuke maguro (marinated tuna), and there’s no skimping on ingredients.
Main
For your main course, choose from four broth bases: Tonkotsu (pork-style), Shoyu, Miso, and “Chicken.” Each broth is crafted from plant extractions, house-made oils, and the creaminess of enoki mushrooms. The ramen noodles come in three varieties—vegan, whole grain, or carrot fettuccine—marinated in mushroom broth for 48 hours. Many soups can be customized with protein additions like tofu, crispy chickpeas, natto, or tempura-style mushrooms.
Everything is highly customizable and can be ordered from a QR code on your table—a lingering COVID-era feature that’s here to stay. The waitstaff is knowledgeable, and will help you build your ideal broth. Your server reveals your miso broth tableside from under a lid, allowing you to experience its smoky aroma before digging in. Garnishes like microgreens and edible flowers provide a full sensory experience.
Dessert
Leave room for dessert—the cheesecake is unlike most vegan versions. Instead of relying on guar gum, the chef stabilizes it with rice mash from sake production and topped with a light yuzu glaze that cuts through the richness. We promise that after a four-course meal at Ippudo V, you’ll leave feeling fully satisfied—no nap or food coma required.
FAQs
Q: What does the “V” stand for in Ippudo V?
A: The “V” stands for vegan, as the menu is entirely plant-based.
Q: Where is Ippudo V located?
A: You’ll find the restaurant in Dumbo, Brooklyn, at 117 Adams St, Brooklyn, NY 11201.
Q: What are the restaurant’s hours?
A: Ippudo V is open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
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