The East Village restaurant Ippudo has some pretty fabulous ramen. The ramen at Donburi-Ya, a little gem of a Japanese joint on East 47th Street, has ramen that is just as good, if not better.

When you walk in one of the first things you will notice is that not only is the entire staff Japanese, but so is almost all of the clientele; this is always a great sign. There is an extensive menu of Japanese delights, and you will be delighted by the two truly magical types of ramen served. Both have the most perfect flavor, soothing to the soul. You'll be slurping this bowl in no time. Don't take my word for it though, go see for yourself, and have yourself transported to Japan, and say "Sayonara" to Midtown for a while.

Donburi-Ya
137 East 47th St. (bet. Lex and 3rd)
New York, NY 10017
212-980-7909