Noodle House Ken (Ken Ramen House)

Slow service, but great ramen!

It has come to that point again. The point you get bored with the predictability of franchises. Aren't we all sick of Ajisen Ramen? While it is quite alright, it isn't exciting anymore. And not to mention that I have suspicions of it being an authentic Japanese restaurant.

So it is time to venture to the unknown (somewhat) and it's nice to try out independent places where ramen is prepared by a Japanese or at least with the Japanese spirit of quality sells better, where you can taste the pride of producing something of true quality, with absolutely no MSG.

That's exactly what this little shop boasts of its soup bases, which takes many hours to achieve the perfection of robust flavour that won't leave a heavy feeling. So well made is the bowl of ramen that this place doesn't sell any other variety of ramen. The only other way is to zhng your ramen is with their additional toppings/condiments.

Speaking of toppings and condiments, you can sort of determine the origins of the shop and thus its authenticity of being truly Japanese by the condiments, particularly the stewed egg. Halve an egg from authentic ramen restaurants and you will see the difference in the yolk, which retains its gooey form compared to the hard solid texture found from Ajisen.

The char siew here is also very good. Cooked till soft and tender, the meat comes apart easily and melts in your mouth.

However, it does take a bit of patience to eat here. The service is somewhat laid-back and thus a little slow.