+1 917-261-6297
Nestled just steps away from the vibrant Washington Square Park, Karakatta offers ramen enthusiasts an authentic and cozy dining experience right in the heart of New York City’s NoHo neighborhood. This intimate ramen spot is a true gem for those craving rich, flavorful bowls of noodles that warm both body and soul.
The menu at Karakatta thoughtfully balances tradition with innovation, showcasing a variety of ramen styles to satisfy a range of palates. Whether you’re drawn to the deep, velvety richness of the Tonkotsu Ramen, brimming with tender pork belly, kikurage mushrooms, and fragrant fried garlic, or the uniquely comforting Butter Miso Ramen that marries creamy miso with just the right hint of sweetness, each selection promises a satisfying slurp. For those who prefer a plant-based option, the Taka’s Vegan Ramen is a standout: silky vegetable broth enriched with soy milk, paired with wavy flat noodles, silky fried tofu, fresh avocado, and a vibrant medley of zucchini, tomato, and mushrooms. The thoughtful addition of spicy oil and paste on the side lets you customize your heat level, making every bowl entirely your own.
Spice lovers will relish the Spicy Ginger Stamina Ramen and the Spicy Vegan Curry Ramen, both delivering a tantalizing kick that’s adjustable from mild to fiery—customers consistently praise this spice level customization for hitting just the right note without overwhelming the palate. Complement your meal with shareable sides like the crispy Jumbo Gyoza, flavorful Karaage Buns, or indulge in the rich, succulent Pork Belly Buns. Wash it all down with a refreshing Ramune soda or the uniquely crafted JPOP Japanese Cocktail, inspired by 70’s Tokyo nightlife, for a truly immersive cultural touch.
Stepping inside Karakatta, you immediately sense the warm, inviting atmosphere. The small yet carefully curated space exudes a hidden-gem charm, with cozy seating that feels intimate without sacrificing a lively ambiance. Reviewers often highlight the friendly, attentive staff—Jay and Nima stand out—as well as the professional yet congenial service that makes diners feel welcomed and well cared for.
While some have noted a desire for a bit more depth in the pork broth, many agree that the thoughtful balance of flavors and fresh ingredients more than make up for it. The texture of the noodles is consistently praised for its perfect “al dente” bite, and the holistic approach to spice customization is a game-changer for ramen aficionados of all heat preferences. Guests repeatedly mention how the cozy atmosphere, combined with the delicious food and personable service, makes Karakatta not just a place to eat, but a culinary sanctuary amidst the bustling NYC dining scene.
For anyone seeking a memorable ramen experience that blends authentic Japanese flavors with a welcoming New York vibe, Karakatta is a must-visit destination. Whether you’re a devoted ramen fan or a curious newcomer, this spot offers comfort, quality, and warmth in every bowl.
Contact: 230 Thompson St, New York, NY 10012 | +1 917-261-6297
From the moment we walked in, Karakatta delivered a standout experience in its small space. The cozy interior near Washington Square Park lends an inviting, almost hidden-gem vibe while the service was friendly. The menu offers a thoughtful variety including vegan / vegetarian options and spice-level customization from 1 to 5, so whether you’re after something mild or fully spicy you’re covered. Pro tip: The space is compact and can get busy during peak hours. It’s worth going a little earlier or expecting a short wait.
I stopped by for a solo lunch on a rainy day, which set a perfect mood for ramen. The noodles had a great "al dente" texture. I ordered Spicy Level 3, and it wasn't overwhelmingly hot—just the right amount of kick. It’s a solid choice if you enjoy moderate heat. I opted for the pork broth. While I really appreciated the vegetables (chives/leeks), the broth itself lacked a bit of depth and complexity, and the chashu was unfortunately a bit dry. However, the appetizers and drinks were excellent. The Takoyaki was a highlight; the cheese powder topping was a unique touch, and the octopus pieces inside were large, providing a great texture. The Sapporo draft beer was fresh and delicious, almost reminding me of my time in Hokkaido. The staff were friendly, and the space, while small, has a cozy vibe. I enjoyed the meal because I love ramen in general, but considering the flavor of the broth, I’m a bit conflicted about whether I would rush back.
Really good ramen! Agree with others that the star grading of the spice level is great. I had 2 stars, was right for me. May try 3 next time. Thank you karakatta staff!!
Karakatta is such a wonderful spot. The atmosphere is amazing—warm, cozy, and instantly welcoming. The staff today Jay and Nima were incredibly friendly while remaining very professional, which makes the whole experience even better. I tried the Tonkotsu ramen today with extra pork belly, and it was absolutely delicious! rich, comforting, and perfectly balanced. A place that truly makes you want to come back again and again
Amazing ramen. The peanut butter in the ramen was lovely and the pork had an amazing texture. Very cosy atmosphere. Make sure to chosen 1-2 if you can't tolerate spice.
This place is small but cozy, with a friendly atmosphere and excellent food! I ordered three different types of ramen, and all of them were delicious. I also loved that I could choose my preferred spice level! The house hot sake perfectly complemented the food as well! One more thing! The appetizer was also perfect! Definitely a must-try alongside the ramen. I highly recommend this place!!!
Hands down my favorite ramen spot in the city! The spicy ginger stamina ramen is absolutely to die for—rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. Cozy vibes, warm atmosphere, and some of the best service you’ll ever find. A true gem.
Hidden gem in lower Manhattan. Small hole in the wall that serves up pretty tasty ramen. I got a level 2 spice and it was just the right amount of heat for me. I would definitely put this place on one of my top ramen spots. Would come again for sure.