The world Halal might be distant to ramen lovers as tonkotso and chashu are some of the most common broth and topping out there. That being said, there a few ramen joints in Singapore that are Halal certified by MUIS (Islamic Religious Council of Singapore), and one of them is located right in the heart of Singapore’s shopping mecca: Orchard Road.
First opened in 2018, Ichikokudo has 7 outlets across the city (one temporarily closed until further notice) including the one that I visited at 313@somerset in Orchard Road.
Ichikokudo specialises in Hokkaido ramen, but how authentic are they? Well, as far as I can tell from this article and their website, the founder and the head chef are originally from Japan, and the restaurant uses ingredients such as kombu, wheat (to make noodles) and butter imported from Hokkaido.
I managed to try the Daichi Tomato Ramen and Hokkaido Clam Ramen when I was there recently.
Daichi Tomato Ramen with clams
Taste wise, the Daichi Tomato Ramen was thick and sourish, but well complemented with the fried garlic. The noodle was too soft to my liking (I’m an al dente person) so do let the kitchen know your preference.
As for the Hokkaido Clam Ramen, it was served with a generous portion of clams, but the broth is on the mild side with hint of clam and butter. Personally, I prefer complex and rich broth like those served by a ramen joint at CHIJMES but again, they are not Halal certified and everyone has a different tastebud. Also, the alkaline taste in the noodles was much more profound than the tomato ramen; presumably the thick paste had covered it.
Hokkaido Clam Ramen
The food was less salty too to suit local palates.
Overall, Ichikokudo is a no-brainer for those who want to have a bowl of authentic Hokkaido ramen or donburi that is Halal certified (not merely being pork-free) and reasonably priced while going on a shopping spree at Orchard Road.
The Ichikokudo Ramen cost SGD 10.90. The cheapest bowl ramen goes for SGD 9.90 (clear broth)
Cosy tatami seating is available
Alternatively, you can opt for the counter seats if tatami or dining table is not your thing
Ichikokudo
Address: 313@somerset,313 Orchard Rd, #B3-35/36, Singapore 238895
Business hours: Monday to Sunday, 11:00am to 10:00pm (Last order at 9:30pm)
Google Map location
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