My wifey duty “date destination search” led me to a ramen place in the heart of bustling Ortigas.   Alabang’s cult-favorite ramen joint Butamaru has opened a branch at Technopoint One, Ortigas Home Depot, which is more accessible for us foodies in the North.

The ramen craze has been all over my social media feeds since before I got married, but it’s still hot until now that we already have a baby. So there must be something more to ramen (and other Japanese dishes) than just being a social media fad.

The new branch of Butamaru retains the interior details that diners have come to know and love – the long Japanese-style dining counter, the minimalist wooden furniture, down to the photo collage backdrop that gives a glimpse of the experience you’re about to enjoy.

Butamaru’s claim to fame is its sinfully decadent, slow-roasted, melt-in-your-mouth round pork belly slices swimming in a soulful sixteen-hour tonkotsu broth, creating a harmonious, perfectly balanced flavor. The noodles are hand-made using techniques and specifications passed down by Master Artisan Sugimura of Menko Noodle Company.

The Shoyu ramen is a tried-and-tested classic that’s become synonymous with the branch but if you want something a bit lighter, the Shio is an excellent choice.

A popular choice in the Ortigas branch is Kaisen ramen, which I enjoyed a lot because of my favorite — shrimp!!! It’s great combination of perfectly cooked seafood with a hearty umami-filled broth.

 

 

For diners seeking a spicy kick to each slurp, the Tantanmen or Curry Tantanmen is perfect for you.

Aside from serving their savory and heartwarming ramen, Butamaru’s newest concept incorporates an extensive izakaya (Japanese casual place for after-work drinking) selection to complete your Japanese dining experience.  Executive Chef Jerome Lim meticulously crafted and curated Butamaru’s izakaya menu, combining traditional Japanese fare with exciting new flavors. Kushiyaki favorites like Gyu Kushi, Yakitori, Buta Bara (pork belly), Tori Kawa (chicken skin) and Shiitake mushroom sticks are available while lesser known options like Kamo Kushi (duck breast) are offered as well.

For those looking for some crunch, their Katsu Gyozayaki, Ebi Mayo, Toriten and Supearibu Karai are sure to satisfy that craving.  Katsu Gyozayaki is my favorite.

Make sure to try their Kimchi Chashu Tacos as well as Spicy Tuna Tacos for a unique explosion of flavors with every bite.

Veggie lovers will also enjoy the Ramen Salad and Kani Ramen Salad.

 

Of course, the izakaya experience wouldn’t be complete without alcohol. Butamaru Ortigas has an ample selection of local and imported beers, spirits, and Japanese-inspired cocktails. My husband will surely love it.  I will definitely bring him to this ramen place in Ortigas. 😊

So whether you’re a certified Ramen lover or just another person like me looking for a good place to dine with your lover,  give Butamaru Ortigas a visit.

 

Butamaru Ortigas is located at G/F, Ortigas Technopoint One (Upper Deck), Ortigas Home Depot, Doña Julia Vargas Ave., Pasig. Phone number: 6359246, e-mail: ortigas@butamaruramen.com. You may also check Butamaru Ortigas on Facebook and Instagram.