ZipPicks Awards
Best Ramen in Lower East Side
Master Critic Review
Ivan Ramen
8.7
Ivan Ramen turns a narrow Clinton Street space into a chef-driven ramen bar where inventive shio and shoyu bowls anchor the menu. Whole-wheat noodles, playful toppings, and small plates make it feel like a full dinner spot rather than a quick slurp-and-go shop.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shio Ramen, Chicken Paitan, Triple Pork Triple Garlic Mazemen
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Creative, chef-led ramen with house-made noodles and layered broths.
Who should go: Diners wanting inventive ramen and small plates with drinks.
When to visit: Later evenings for full buzz without peak early crush.
What to order: Shio ramen, Chicken Paitan, Triple Pork Triple Garlic Mazemen.
Insider tip: Plan a full meal with buns and sides, not just ramen.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only on Clinton Street; expect limited availability after 6pm and plan for metered spots on adjacent blocks.
Dress code: Smart casual; most guests lean relaxed-but-stylish given the chef-driven atmosphere.
Noise level: Moderate—lively but still workable for conversation, especially at two-tops.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, longer during peak 7–8pm hours.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait; often seated within 5–10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian ramen and several small plates are available.
Vegan options: Limited—some small plates can be made vegan, but bowls are mostly vegetarian rather than fully vegan.
Gluten-free options: Limited—no fully gluten-free ramen noodles, but certain sides and salads work for GF diners.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its intimate space, chef-driven menu, and steady buzz make it a strong choice for a casual but memorable first date where you can still hold a conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, especially earlier in the evening or late night, but expect to join a waitlist during prime weekend hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—older kids who enjoy ramen will be fine, but tight seating and louder peak hours make it less ideal for strollers or very young children.
Best For
Better for: Inventive broths, house-made noodles, and chef-driven flavor combinations that go beyond classic ramen shops.
Skip if: You want traditional, no-frills ramen or need fully gluten-free noodle options.