Hanamaruken

Cristina Manejero

3.0

We were craving for Ramen but opted to try out something new so we skipped our usual go -to ramen houses (Ramen Nagi/ Ippudo) and ended up dining at Hanamaruken.To ensure that we would not miss the best that they could offer, we ordered their bestsellers— (1) Signature Happiness Ramen at Php 445 (half), shoyu tonkatsu broth ramen topped with tender, soft-bone pork rib (2) Spare Rib Ramen (Php 410) , tonkotsu, shoyu, slow-cooked spare ribs (3) gyoza.While both taste passable, I don’t think we’d go back. The broth wasn’t too flavorful, I had to put a lot of condiments to satisfy my tastebuds. Gyoza was bland for my liking too. What stood out for me was their free extra noodles (in case the huge bowl is not sufficient)

LY

4.0

The menu features recommendations and clear descriptions, names, and photos of food. Louie ordered Hanamaruken's Signature Happiness Ramen (Half, PhP 445) without batting an eyelash. It's the signature ramen bowl that's said to be a masterpiece created by Founder Takaku Arakawa himself. For sure, it must be something really special. And indeed, it was a comforting dish with hearty ingredients and a rich aroma. We were surprised to learn that the half size is still actually quite large. A sheet of nori on the side has the words "Happiness is coming" written in Japanese. The broth is a mix of shoyu and tonkotsu, delivering both salty and savory flavors with pork undertones.I got Hanamaruken's Tan Tan Mien (PhP 390). Made with a porky, opaque pale broth, their version of tonkotsu came with a sticky-lipped intensity and tiny nubbins of fat and minced pork swimming around on the surface. Sesame paste and curry tasted great, with tolerable heat. No doubt, this is the ultimate meal-in-a-bowl for me and one of the things I'd think of when you say comfort food.For our standalone side dishes, we got a serving each of Tiger Prawn Tempura (PhP 580) and Gyoza (PhP 240). The tempura was tagged with a hefty price, but it was worth it! With a gorgeous crunch, it's one of best tempuras we've had. I fell in love with my first bite. :) The freshness of the prawn was so evident, and we thoroughly enjoyed the flavor and natural sweetness that came from it without being distracted by the crispy tempura skin.The Gyoza was fine as well but not an absolute must-try. The filling was nicely seasoned and tasted better with the dipping sauce.Hanamaruken Ramen is known for serving bowls of soul-satisfying ramen that bring happiness. Prices are not too friendly to the budget, but patrons don't mind. The signature taste, aroma, and flavors of each dish drive people to explore more and more into a heavenly happy ramen world. Bring your family here to experience slurp-worthy ramen, and you can't go wrong. We're also willing to try their rice bowls next time!