In the vibrant food scene of Logan Square, Chicago, the spotlight is firmly on the captivating world of ramen. With its rich broths and handcrafted noodles, this Japanese classic has found a new home in Logan Square, and two exceptional ramen shops are at the heart of this culinary revolution. Let’s delve into the intriguing details that set these spots apart.

First on our journey is Monster Ramen, a charming establishment that has been captivating locals for the past eighteen months. Under the leadership of Katie Dong, who honed her craft in Japanese kitchens, Monster Ramen offers a unique twist by focusing on beef stock. According to Katie, the beef stock is velvety and lighter than the traditional pork bone stock. Their crowning jewel is the Monster Ramen dish, a beef lover’s dream featuring wagyu chashu, wagyu rib roast, bamboo, mushroom, seaweed, and buttery corn, all resting atop springy, homemade noodles crafted in-house earlier in the day.

Meanwhile, over at Akahoshi Ramen on California, the atmosphere is electric, with queues forming well before 5 o’clock. Here, Mike Satinover’s passion for ramen knows no bounds. With thirteen years of dedication under his belt, he has truly mastered the art of ramen making. At Akahoshi Ramen, the signature bowl is a symphony of five elements: the noodle, the soup, the tare, the aromatic oil, and the toppings, all expertly balanced to create a tapestry of flavours.

Satinover’s approach involves meticulous and deliberate preparation, with each component receiving the care it deserves. From bean sprouts sizzling in a hot wok with lard to the addition of the tare and soup poured over the specially designed noodles, every step is a testament to his commitment to creating the perfect bowl of ramen. And let’s not overlook the soupless ramen reminiscent of Dan Dan Noodles, crowned with seasoned ground pork and bok choy – a dish that is sure to astound your taste buds.

Both of these ramen spots are revolutionising the ramen landscape in Logan Square with their emphasis on homemade noodles, meticulously curated broths, and unwavering attention to detail. Whether it’s Monster Ramen’s beefy delight or Akahoshi Ramen’s fusion of flavours, one thing is clear – the ramen scene in Logan Square is thriving.

If you happen to find yourself in the area yearning for a nurturing bowl of ramen, a visit to Monster Ramen at 3435 W. Fullerton Ave. or Akahoshi Ramen at 2340 N. California Ave. is a must. Embark on this gastronomic adventure and prepare to be thoroughly enchanted.