Lincoln Park's James Beard Ramen
Akahoshi Ramen on Clark Street is one of the most carefully-conceived ramen programmes in the Midwest. The kitchen takes the format with restaurant-grade discipline. Broths simmered for the time they need, hand-cut noodles, and considered topping execution.
James Beard semifinalist recognition has followed; the room's reputation is built on the simple fact of doing one thing exceptionally well rather than chasing breadth.
What to Order
Tonkotsu ramen as the benchmark. The broth is properly long-simmered. Shoyu for the diner who wants the lighter alternative. Karaage as a starter; gyoza hand-folded. The sake and beer programmes handle the pairing.
The Format
Counter seating handles solo diners gracefully; the dining room takes reservations. The pace is brisk in the Japanese ramen tradition.
Best Occasion: Solo Dining
Akahoshi is one of Lincoln Park's most natural solo-dining rooms. Counter seating, an unintimidating format, careful cooking. Combine into the kind of evening a solo diner can do exceptionally well in under an hour.