For years Morimoto ruled the Meatpacking district as one of the best sushi spots in the city. Not only was the food right on point, but the scene was tops. I’m going to age myself but this was the place of my twenties, that was the IRL (in real life in today’s modern speak) Sex and The City. But alas it ran its course, as things do in New York. It’s hard though not to be a fan of Morimoto. Well, he’s back in a much more low-key spot, Momosan, that is quite the opposite of the original Morimoto. This is the review of Morimoto’s ramen restaurant, Momosan Ramen & Sake.

Atmosphere

Morimoto’s ramen restaurant, Momosan Ramen & Sake has been around since 2016, so this isn’t a ground-breaking review. It wasn’t until recently though that I dropped in, as casual ramen spots are generally not on my rotation. That sums up the atmosphere of Momosan, as a casual ramen joint with the bonus of a full bar and sake, as its name implies. I actually came here with a friend’s family, and the atmosphere is conducive, especially during lunch, to bring your kids. The crowd is exactly who you would expect as well to eat ramen; casually dressed everyday folk in an easy-going atmosphere. It’s doubtful you’re going to run into Gigi and Bella at Morimoto’s ramen restaurant, but then again that’s not what you’re here for. You’re here to get your ramen fix, when the craving strikes.

Food

At first glance, Momosan has many similarities in selection to David Chang’s Momofuku Noodle Bar, except that it serves sushi. It would be a shame of course for Morimoto’s ramen bar not to serve sushi, as that’s what put Morimoto on the map. Don’t expect though the level of sushi at the former Morimoto, though for a casual place it does the trick.

Momosan has additional Japanese casual fare like shrimp tempura (which was way too overdressed in mayo) and fried chicken. The fried chicken starter can feed four easily, and was a crowd-pleaser with the kids. The spicy garlic soy is mostly at the bottom of the dish, so don’t forget to dip. The bao buns are also solid, though the pork belly version is a little fatty. (Which is a pro and con depending on how you feel about fatty pork).

The reason you come to Morimoto’s ramen restaurant is of course for the ramen. As long as you’re in for a casual ramen spot, you won’t be disappointed. You can tell that every rendition of ramen is made with the highest ingredients and that extra attention to detail. There are nine versions of ramen on the menu, most of which are a nuanced version centered around traditional pork. There’s pork in the broth, which is rich and nourishing, ground up pork or a fatty chasu pork, all with a unique signature on ramen. There’s also a chicken ramen with chicken broth, and a solid vegan ramen. For pescatarians, the shrimp tempura without the aioli is a good combo with the vegan ramen. Whatever version you choose, you’ll get your ramen fix.

Service

For a casual place, service is as good as can be. Food comes out quickly, servers are polite and the perfunctory follow ups are all in place.

Overall: 7/10. A solid ramen spot.

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FAQs

Q: What are the hours of Morimoto’s ramen restaurant, Momosan?

A: The hours of operation are as follows:

Q: Is Morimoto’s ramen restaurant good for kids?

A: Momosan is a good option for kids especially during the lunch hours.

Q: Where is Momosan located?

A: Momosan is located at 342 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10016.