Tenkaippin Ramen is a big chain ramen restaurant in Japan and I heard that they are very particular about their recipes. I also heard the owner of this restaurant was able to convince them to franchise this location in Hawaii, I don’t know how he pulled this off but I’m grateful he did. I’ve been to this restaurant a few times over the years and I agree with reviewers, the restaurant has changed in quality over the years. Have you noticed the Ultimate Japan shows they play in the restaurant? Well if you didn’t know, the hosts of the show are also the owners of this restaurant! In the beginning of my visits here, I would see the owners around helping out but lately, they are almost never around…which I think changes the dynamic of the place.
I tried Tenkaippin a few months ago just to try the food again. I got my favorite Kotteri Ramen and it was as good as it always was. I feel the food is still good and consistent in taste. When I went to Japan, I found a Tenkaippin in Shinjuku and tried it. Oh boy did I prefer the one in Hawaii…is that weird to say? The broth in Shinjuku was incredibly salty and I just couldn’t enjoy it as much as I do in Hawaii.
Kotteri Ramen – look at that thick broth!