The Take
Order the Shiromaru tonkotsu ramen with soft-boiled egg and nori at Ippudo. The chain earns a Slop Score of 29 by building its signature broth from actual pork bones instead of concentrate packets.
Chashu and ajitama deliver the real-deal toppings that justify the price tier. Fried sides drag it down with hidden soybean oil, but the core bowl stays based for ramen fans tired of industrial broth.
The Verdict
Ippudo signals status for diners who want Japanese ramen without full fast-casual compromise. The broth and toppings keep it ahead of seed-oil chains, but location variance and fried apps pull the score down.
Stick to the based order and skip the sides. Order the Shiromaru tonkotsu ramen with soft-boiled egg and nori. Slop Score 29.
Common Questions
Does Ippudo use seed oils?
Yes. Default fried apps often hide soybean oil in the kitchen.
What should you avoid at Ippudo?
Karaage chicken and any tempura sides. They drag the meal into neutral oil territory.
Is Ippudo healthy?
Mostly. The tonkotsu broth and real toppings deliver solid value if you skip the fried apps.
