Lines form outside of the popular food cart Ichiryu on the weekend. The cart’s appeal stems from its simple, authentic flavor perfected by the late husband of the current owner, Mrs. Samura, who is now dedicated to preserving it.
Ichiryu’s menu is mainly comprised of items that haven’t changed since the cart began its service 40 years ago. “We only simmer our ramen broth for 10 hours (a much shorter time than usual), so we use 100kg (220 pounds) of pork,” Mrs. Samura explains. The light yet savory pork flavor brought out expertly in the ramen noodle (pictured above) soup has most diners asking, ”Can this really be pork-based?” The ramen has plenty of flavor, though.
Ichiryu also offers simmered items, including beef cuts (of which they sell 20kg [44 pounds] a day) that steam before diners’ eyes, their sweet aroma working up an appetite. Why not get your fill of Hakata’s nightlife with a dazzling dinner using the choicest domestic ingredients?