I first discovered Hanamaruken Ramen back in 2015, courtesy of my former partner. The Osaka, Japan-based franchise's first location was at the Trinoma mall, which was accessible to us both. Since then, Hanamaruken Ramen has opened several branches – including one at The Grove by Rockwell in Pasig, Alabang Town Center down south, another Pasig branch at Estancia Mall and UP Town Center along Katipunan Avenue.
Hanamaruken Ramen has a limited menu compared to other Japanese restaurants, choosing to focus on its best sellers. Its menu items feature pork from the Arakawa Pork Company, also based in Osaka. Takaku Arakawa helms the company, and even personally trains the chefs to uphold Hanamaruken Ramen's high standard. This insistence on quality is backed up by Arakawa's more than 30 years of experience in the food business.
Diners who enter Hanamaruken Ramen's Trinoma branch are welcomed by the homey ambiance of Osaka. There are tables for groups and counter-style chairs and a common table for those eating solo. Random knick-knacks are hung on a glass case at the end of the room, juxtaposed with some ukiyo-e prints. One print got my attention, however – and I could not help but pose next to it.
We were able to taste the high standard Hanamaruken Ramen is known for through our orders – the Drunk Man Rice Bowl for me, and the Chasyu Ramen for her. Soup spoons and chopsticks are the main utensils here for that Japanese feel. However, you can request a spoon and fork if you prefer eating the Western way.
Let's start with the drinks. The Iced Green Tea here is a straightforward take on matcha (Japanese green tea), sweetened just right and served on ice. This one is perfect for cutting through the savory taste of pork. Meanwhile, the Genmaicha (brown rice tea) in the small mug is free of charge and can be availed hot or cold.
The Chasyu Ramen consists of ramen noodles with tonkotsu (pork bone) broth, flavored with soy sauce. It's topped with braised pork belly and narutomaki fish cake, the latter known for its spiral design. While the combination of flavorful broth; gelatinous pork fat; and chewy soft meat is rather indulgent, I do not recommend this for anyone keeping tabs on their cholesterol levels.
Meanwhile, the Signature Happiness Ramen follows the same formula. But instead of braised pork belly, a slab of tender pork ribs cooked the Arakawa way goes on top. I loved the clean taste and smell of the pork Hanamaruken Ramen uses, and this one ordered by my then-partner also boasted of ribs with meat falling off the bone.
The Drunk Man Rice Bowl, meanwhile, consists of braised pork (kakuni) on rice. It's accompanied by two sunny-side-up eggs and sprinkled with green onions and red chilies for a dash of color. The sweet and savory pork contrasts with the creamy egg, while the green onions and chili contribute a kick that sobers one up.
The way the eggs were cooked on this one is also commendable. I'll definitely love to have this rice bowl three times a day. True enough, I ordered the Drunk Man Rice Bowl during a 2017 trip to Hanamaruken Ramen – coinciding with my 27th birthday that time. It would be the last instance when we would dine at the joint as a couple.
Years passed, and me and my former partner went our separate ways. Nevertheless, that breakup didn't stop me from visiting Hanamaruken Ramen in subsequent instances. The Drunk Man Rice Bowl has become a favorite meal, always accompanied by the Iced Green Tea.
Things may change, but some habits don't.
Visit Hanamaruken Ramen Philippines on Facebook and on Instagram to stay updated with its latest promotions and updates. Until the next review, bon appetit.
Hanamaruken Ramen
#2087, 2/F Garden Restaurants,
Trinoma Mall, North Avenue cor. EDSA,
Brgy. Bagong Pag-Asa, Quezon City 1105