Marikina, formerly known as the Shoe Capital of the Philippines, is now becoming quite the food hub. Alongside old-timer restaurants that serve the traditional Marikeño fare of pancit pinagulong, everlasting and puto, there are now modern food parks and restaurants that attract the foodies of Metro Manila. One of these new restos is the quaint Happon Ramen House.
Located a bit away from the city center, it is quite challenging for non-Marikina residents to find it. So when in doubt, turn on Waze.
One will immediately notice the well-designed and put together interiors of the ramen house. They even have their own Japanese stamp (which I love!). I was happily reminded of the streets of Tokyo.
As with traditional Japanese ramen houses, the menu is minimal and unpretentious. We ordered a bowl of Chicken Paitan Chashumen, and side orders of karaage and gyoza.
Overall, I loved the well-made/cooked noodles but found the Paitan broth a bit wanting in flavour. Good thing the slices of chashu pork were delicious (I can still remember how the heavenly strips of fat melted in my mouth). Plus the ajitama or seasoned egg was cooked perfectly. The chicken karaage was crispy and the gyoza, tender to the bite. So overall, it was quite a satisfying experience.
Would I recommend the Ramen House Happon? Of course! Especially if you want to take a break from your usual fast food fare.
Happon Ramen House is located at #70 Cepeda St. cor. Col. Divino St., Concepcion Uno, Marikina City. Open daily except on Tuesdays.
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