Sengoku Noodle (PIK) - A Ramen War Of Its Own

It was only a few weeks ago that I tasted the increasingly popular Ikkudo Ichi. So popular that even my pastor went all the way to PIK to try it. That is something! In case you missed out, you can read my review of Ikkudo here. Continuing the ramen wave, recently I paid a visit to Sengoku Noodle who happens to be nearby.

My first impression of Sengoku Noodle was a bit displeasing. The poorly design menu was a major turn off. Printed on a piece of carton paper, laminated, with fonts that resemble the work of amateurs. I'm sorry I'm judgmental when it comes to this. A food photographer's holy discontent. Haha. But hey, I've seen worse and yet the food turn out amazing. I decided to give it a second chance and ordered myself a bowlful of Tampopo Ramen.

I suppose I was in a sentimental mood, and the name reminded me of one of my favorite food-movie, Tampopo. A lot of lessons learned from that movie, but let's keep it straight on the food this time.

Clean broth yet flavorful aroma. I can easily sniff the meat stock. Intriguing.

Two huge slice of pork in parallel with two piece of soft-boiled eggs. Spring onions overflowing. Seaweeds swimming on top.

Curly noodle that appears 'al-dente'.

It's the moment of truth. One bite and the record is set. It is a rather calming type of broth, with not much excitement going around. A safe version of ramen I would say. Not to be mistaken as poor ramen, it was actually quite enjoyable, especially after the second munch on the pork. I was just looking for more lively kind of ramen. The kind that would make you "oohh" and "aahh". The kind that makes you grab the bowl with both hands and literally drink the broth until the last sip.

That was not it.

Well, I still think its too early to judge Sengoku Noodle from one bowl of ramen though. There should be more in store for something that is licensed all the way from Seattle. It is a part of the emerging Samurai Noodle. The name Sengoku was given to appreciate the Japanese warring era and great advancement that marked the height of Samurai's reign in Japan. I heard they even flew some of the cast to Jakarta to help around for the first few months.

For a two months old foodplace, they are doing well. Don't close just yet, I'll come back to taste some more.

Until then, I hope this post helps you ramen-lovers out there. If you do, send some loving on Twitter @Wanderbites. Feel free to poke.

Cheers,

Fellexandro Ruby
Food Photographer & Conversationalist