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.