IKA is a small ramen restaurant that is catching the eye of people across Omaha. With its popping colors and detailed decorations, the restaurant brings in dozens of customers. IKA is located in Benson and is in a hot spot for the surrounding neighborhoods. They always take walk-in orders and do carryout.
The menu offers a variety of dishes that have descriptions of ingredients underneath. What is special about IKA is that the menu is in Japanese, with a translation at the bottom of it. The menu is split into divisions such as small plates, ramen, donburi, poke bowls and gyoza. IKA is most known for its authentic ramen dishes. Notable ramen bowls are the Fuego Ramen and the Tonkotsu Ramen. These dishes are the opposite of each other and feature different ingredients.
The Fuego Ramen, at first glance, looks intense. This is because the dish is bright red. The red color comes from the spices and ingredients. It includes roasted chicken, fried chicken skins, IKA buffalo sauce, a soft poached egg, green onion, spicy rayu oil and avocado. All of these ingredients combine to have a spicy taste. The dish also has a paitan broth. This means that the broth was originally white before adding ingredients and spices. For this dish, it is recommended that one orders a drink if the dish is too spicy.
On the other hand, the Tonkotsu Ramen looks a lot more tame when it is served. The dish has a milky white color, along with red, green and brown color accents because of the ingredients. Translating the ingredients, this dish includes a medium boiled soy egg, green onions, garlic, pickled ginger, roasted pork belly and wood ear mushrooms. The roasted pork is prominent in this dish and it pairs with the broth well.
Both of these dishes have good qualities. The Fuego Ramen has the ingredients that would be perfect for customers who may prefer spicier food. Tonkotsu Ramen has a much more savory taste to it. For those who do not like mushrooms, they should try out the Fuego.
All of IKA’s menu options encompass a variety of styles and flavors. The tables and booths surrounded by colorful painted artwork conveys a cool and fun environment. With the menu and modern atmosphere, the restaurant is a perfect stop for any customer.
