Momosan Ramen & Sake

For New Yorkers with a discerning palate for authentic Japanese cuisine, Momosan Ramen & Sake, helmed by the legendary Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto, offers an elevated ramen experience right in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. Located on Lexington Avenue, this establishment brings Chef Morimoto's deep understanding of Japanese flavors and meticulous culinary techniques to the comforting bowl of ramen, all within a vibrant and welcoming setting.

Momosan Ramen & Sake isn't just about the noodles; it's a comprehensive Japanese dining destination that embodies the spirit of a modern izakaya. While ramen is undoubtedly the star, the menu is thoughtfully curated with a range of playful yet authentic appetizers, a carefully selected list of sakes – including some of Morimoto's own signature brews – and a creative cocktail program. It’s a place where you can drop in for a quick, satisfying lunch, enjoy a lively dinner, or unwind with friends over drinks and delicious Japanese comfort food. New Yorkers looking for a high-quality, memorable ramen experience with a touch of culinary celebrity will find Momosan to be an exceptional choice.

Momosan Ramen & Sake is conveniently situated at 342 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10016, USA. This prime location places it in Midtown Manhattan, a highly accessible and bustling area, making it a convenient destination for anyone in New York City. Nestled between 39th and 40th Streets, it's easily reachable for office workers on their lunch break, tourists exploring the city, or locals meeting friends for dinner.

The accessibility of Momosan Ramen & Sake is a significant advantage for New Yorkers. It is just a short walk from Grand Central Terminal, a major transportation hub serving numerous subway lines (including the 4, 5, 6, 7, and S trains) and Metro-North commuter rail. This makes it incredibly easy to reach from all boroughs and even parts of the wider tri-state area. Multiple bus routes also run along Lexington Avenue and nearby streets, providing additional convenience. For those who prefer walking, its central location in Midtown ensures it's a pleasant stroll from many major landmarks and business districts. The restaurant itself offers a welcoming environment, suitable for individual diners, couples, or groups, with both counter seating for a quick bite and communal tables for a more social experience.

• Dine-in: Momosan Ramen & Sake provides a full-service dine-in experience. Guests can choose to sit at the counter for an up-close view of the kitchen action, or at communal tables, fostering a casual yet vibrant atmosphere. They operate on a first-come, first-served basis, especially during peak hours.

• Takeout: For New Yorkers on the go, Momosan offers convenient takeout services. Orders can typically be placed directly with the restaurant or through their online portal for pickup.

• Delivery: The restaurant partners with popular third-party delivery platforms like DoorDash, making it easy for customers in the surrounding areas to enjoy their ramen and other dishes from the comfort of their home or office.

• Lunch Service: Momosan offers a popular lunch service, often featuring combination sets that include a choice of ramen, a mini don (rice dish), and pickled cabbage, providing a quick and value-driven meal for the busy Midtown crowd.

• Dinner Service: The dinner menu expands to offer a wider selection of appetizers and ramen options, with larger portions available (excluding Tsukemen), ideal for a more leisurely evening meal.

• Bar and Sake Service: A well-stocked bar offers a wide selection of sake, including exclusive Morimoto signature sakes, available by the glass, carafe, and bottle. They also feature a range of cocktails, beer, and wine.

• Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto's Culinary Vision: The restaurant is a creation of the renowned Chef Masaharu Morimoto, bringing his signature blend of traditional Japanese techniques and innovative twists to every dish, particularly the ramen. His personal touch ensures a level of quality and depth rarely found in casual ramen spots.

• Diverse Ramen Selection: Momosan offers a range of signature ramen bowls, each with a unique profile. Highlights include:

  • Spicy Kakuni Tonkotsu: Praised for its rich, flavorful broth with a perfect amount of heat, and tender, satisfying braised pork belly (kakuni).

  • Tonkotsu: A rich pork broth, unique for blending 70% pork bones and 30% chicken bones, simmered for 12-14 hours to create a smoother, less pungent yet deeply flavorful broth. It features wavy, "temomi" (hand-massaged) noodles designed to better absorb the soup.

  • Tokyo Chicken: A lighter, soy-based chicken ramen, made with 100% chicken bones simmered for 12 hours, offering a clean yet profound chicken flavor.

  • Tantan: A unique blend of Japanese and Malaysian flavors, featuring a spicy sesame curry broth with miso ground pork, cilantro, and coconut milk, creating a creamy and bold taste.

  • Tsukemen: A distinct "dipping ramen" experience where chilled noodles and toppings are served separately from a highly concentrated hot tonkotsu broth, meant for dipping.

• Exceptional Service: Numerous customer reviews highlight the outstanding service, with staff members like Johan consistently receiving praise for their warm greetings, attentiveness, and helpful recommendations, enhancing the overall dining experience.

• Extensive Sake and Cocktail Program: Beyond ramen, Momosan boasts an impressive selection of over 20 sake options, including six of Chef Morimoto's signature sakes. Their cocktail menu features creative, sake-based drinks and other refreshing choices, like "The Last Petal" seasonal cocktail.

• Playful and Authentic Appetizers: The menu extends beyond ramen to include a variety of well-executed appetizers such as Sticky Ribs, Pork Gyoza, Kakuni Bao (braised pork belly buns), Duck Tacos, Karaage (Japanese fried chicken), and Crispy Mimiga (pig ear), providing diverse options to start your meal.

• Casual and Welcoming Ambiance: The restaurant offers a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, suitable for both solo diners at the counter and groups at communal tables, making it a versatile spot for various dining occasions.

Momosan Ramen & Sake occasionally features promotions and special offerings that appeal to New Yorkers. While specific deals may vary, here's what locals might expect:

• Lunch Sets: A popular offering for the Midtown crowd, Momosan provides attractive lunch sets during weekday lunch hours. These typically include a choice of ramen, a mini don (rice bowl like Chashu Bap or Poke Don), and a side of pickled cabbage, offering a great value for a high-quality meal.

• Happy Hour: Momosan Ramen & Sake offers a limited menu happy hour at the bar, typically from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM on weekdays. This is an excellent opportunity to sample their beverages and perhaps some select appetizers at a special price.

• Seasonal Cocktails and Dishes: The menu often includes seasonal specials, such as unique cocktails like "The Last Petal" or limited-time ramen creations, providing new experiences for returning customers.

• Takeout & Delivery Specials: Keep an eye on their official website or listings on popular delivery platforms (like DoorDash) for any exclusive online ordering discounts or free delivery promotions that might be available.

• Event-Based Promotions: As a popular establishment, Momosan may participate in broader NYC dining events or offer special menus during holidays, so checking their website or social media around these times is advisable.

For the most up-to-date information on current promotions, New Yorkers are encouraged to visit the official Momosan Ramen & Sake website or contact them directly.

For those in New York City eager to experience the celebrated ramen and Japanese fare at Momosan Ramen & Sake, here’s how to get in touch:

• Address: 342 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10016, USA

• Phone: (646) 201-5529

• Website: For menus, hours, and online ordering/reservations (if available), visit the official Momosan Ramen & Sake website.

• Email: info@momosanramen.com

For New Yorkers, Momosan Ramen & Sake stands out as a top-tier destination for Japanese comfort food, particularly ramen, with the undeniable touch of an Iron Chef. Its prime Midtown location on Lexington Avenue makes it incredibly convenient, whether you're working in the area, catching a train at Grand Central, or simply seeking an exceptional meal in a bustling part of the city.

What truly makes Momosan suitable for locals is its commitment to both culinary excellence and a welcoming experience. The diverse ramen menu, featuring uniquely crafted broths like the rich Spicy Kakuni Tonkotsu and the lighter Tokyo Chicken, caters to various preferences, ensuring there’s a perfect bowl for everyone. Beyond the ramen, the playful yet authentic appetizers and the impressive sake selection offer a full izakaya-style dining experience. The consistently praised excellent service adds a personal touch that makes diners feel valued, fostering a sense of community even in a busy urban setting. For those seeking high-quality, flavorful Japanese cuisine in a vibrant atmosphere, Momosan Ramen & Sake provides an experience that combines gourmet standards with approachability, making it a cherished spot for New Yorkers.

Momosan Ramen & Sake

342 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10016, USA