Tonchin, a celebrated Japanese restaurant, has been delighting diners with its authentic Tokyo-style ramen since its inception in 1992. Founded by the Sugeno family, Tonchin has expanded internationally, bringing its rich culinary heritage to cities like New York and Los Angeles.
A Legacy of Flavor
The original Tonchin opened its doors in Tokyo, quickly gaining acclaim for its dedication to traditional ramen-making techniques. Over the years, the restaurant has grown, establishing over 70 locations across Asia. In 2017, the Sugeno brothers, Anan and Toi, introduced Tonchin to New York City, marking the brand's first venture into the United States. The Midtown Manhattan location, situated at 13 W 36th St, offers a modern yet cozy ambiance, blending minimalist Japanese design with a touch of New York flair.
The Ramen Experience
At the heart of Tonchin's menu is its signature Tokyo Tonkotsu ramen. This dish features a rich, umami-packed pork broth paired with homemade noodles that strike the perfect balance between firmness and chewiness. Toppings include tender roasted chashu pork, a soft-boiled nitamago egg, scallions, menma (fermented bamboo shoots), and nori seaweed. For those seeking a spicy kick, the Spicy Tan Tan ramen incorporates chili pepper and crushed nuts, adding depth and heat to the flavorful broth.
Beyond ramen, Tonchin's menu boasts a variety of appetizers and sides. Diners can indulge in pan-fried ginger gyoza, addicting chicken wings, and a selection of yakitori options like the tsukune chicken meatball skewer glazed with a savory tare sauce. The restaurant also offers a curated list of sake, shochu, and inventive cocktails to complement the meal.
Expanding Horizons
The success of the Midtown location led to the opening of a second New York outpost in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, in July 2022. This location offers a distinct menu, with approximately 80% of the dishes exclusive to Brooklyn. Highlights include a raw bar featuring oysters topped with umami clam jelly and a shima-aji dish comprising raw striped jack with anchovy puree, green garlic sauce, chives, and pistachio. The Williamsburg restaurant also emphasizes a slower dining experience, encouraging guests to savor each course and explore the diverse offerings beyond ramen. The restaurant just announced it intends to expand through franchising.
A Commitment to Quality
Tonchin's dedication to excellence has not gone unnoticed. The New York locations have been recognized with Michelin Bib Gourmand awards, a testament to the restaurant's ability to provide high-quality food at reasonable prices. This commitment to quality extends to their recent decision to expand through franchising, aiming to bring their authentic ramen experience to more communities across the United States.
Conclusion
Tonchin seamlessly blends traditional Japanese culinary techniques with modern dining sensibilities. Whether you're a ramen enthusiast or a curious newcomer, a visit to Tonchin promises a satisfying and immersive dining experience that pays homage to its Tokyo roots while embracing the vibrant food culture of its international locales.