From Fukuoka to nationwide, and then to the world, Ippudo is a popular and ever-expanding ramen chain. “Ippudo Stand” is a new type of ramen shop via reimportation, where you can have some pre-dinner drinks at the “waiting bar”. Paper lanterns line overhead, and the lights that seep out of the exposed, glass-lined interior is stylish.

The first floor is a fusion of western-style waiting bars and Japanese “kakuuchi” standing bars. The bar tables are just the right height to lean on. Each seat comes with a bar stool, so where day or night, feel free to give your feet a rest.

After 3:00pm there’s a bar bites menu. Choose from a variety of snacks like the “Hakata Buns” which are thick char siu sandwiched between fluffy bread, “Chicken Karaage” made with Ippudo’s secret tonkotsu broth, and “Cilantro Boiled Dumplings” which are garnished with plenty of cilantro leaves.

You can order from a their expansive drinks menu at 11:00 am on the dot, at opening.

The second floor is all table seating, similar to other restaurants in the franchise. Aside from Ippudo’s classic “Shiromaru Hakata Classic” and “Akamaru Modern”, they also offer the spicy “Hakata Tan Tan Men” and a chicken and soy based “Tanrei Chuka Soba” - both exclusive to this location. You can grab some drinks on the first floor and finish at the second. It’s a great place for any situation.