New York · Ramen · casual
Kuu Ramen
Japanese RamenIzakaya Small PlatesTonkotsuMiso RamenFinancial DistrictHand Rolls
A compact, highly acclaimed ramen counter in the Financial District run by Japanese chef Susumu, offering tonkotsu, miso, and chili ramen alongside hand rolls and izakaya plates.
- Price
- ¥
- Area
- Financial District
- Chef
- Susumu
Plate № 2020
About
Kuu Ramen is a small, focused ramen and Japanese dining spot tucked into the Financial District at 20 John Street, where Chef Susumu from Hyogo, Japan has built one of the most respected ramen destinations in Manhattan. The restaurant earned a Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice award in 2025, ranking #38 of 13,235 restaurants in New York City — an extraordinary result for such a compact operation. The menu centers on a tightly edited selection of ramen styles — chili crispy pork, tonkotsu shoyu, spicy miso — alongside hand rolls, sashimi, and izakaya-style small plates like potstickers and tuna tartare. The open kitchen, limited seating, and fast turnover give it the feel of a Japanese counter restaurant rather than a casual noodle shop. A regular queue forms at peak hours, and a happy hour deal from 4–6 PM (appetizer, drink, and ramen for $19.99) offers exceptional value.
Neighborhood & visiting
Kuu Ramen sits in Financial District, one of New York's neighborhoods where authentic Japanese kitchens have taken root. The house does not publish an online booking link; call ahead to secure a seat, especially on weekends. Check the posted hours before you go — traditional ramen restaurants often close between service periods.
Why it's on Washoku Guide
- Tripadvisor ranked Kuu #38 of over 13,000 NYC restaurants in 2025 — a remarkable testament to the consistent quality of Chef Susumu's kitchen.
- The Chili Crispy Pork Ramen is one of the most discussed bowls in Lower Manhattan — a rich, complex broth with serious heat calibrated for depth rather than spectacle.
- The 4–6 PM happy hour special (appetizer + drink + ramen for $19.99) is arguably the best value Japanese meal in the Financial District.
- The compact open kitchen and minimal décor give Kuu the feel of an authentic Japanese counter spot — a rare atmosphere in a neighborhood dominated by corporate dining.
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Frequently asked
About Kuu Ramen
- Is Kuu Ramen an authentic japanese ramen restaurant in New York?
- Yes — Kuu Ramen is featured in Washoku Guide because it meets our authenticity standard for japanese ramen in New York: a kitchen grounded in Japanese technique, ingredients and preparation consistent with Japanese practice, and a focused ramen format.
- Where is Kuu Ramen located?
- Kuu Ramen is located at 20 John St, New York, NY 10038, New York, United States in the Financial District neighborhood.
- Do I need a reservation at Kuu Ramen?
- Kuu Ramen does not publish an online reservation link. Walk-ins may be possible, but for popular ramen restaurants in New York we recommend calling ahead.
- What is the price range at Kuu Ramen?
- Kuu Ramen sits in the ¥ price range — typical for japanese ramen of this format in New York.
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