Chicago Ramen Annex

Chicago Ramen Annex Brings a New Style to Schaumburg | Eater Chicago

"Helmed by Chef Kenta Ikehata, this new suburban restaurant at 1608 E. Algonquin Road in Schaumburg brings Jiro ramen — an aggressive, cult-favorite style from Tokyo not offered elsewhere in town — to the local scene: the Jiro-style here is porky, garlicky, and richly fatty, featuring firm, udon-like noodles and a sumptuous shoyu-tonkotsu broth topped with a tall pile of shredded cabbage, bean sprouts, and lots of raw chopped garlic. Ikehata opened Chicago Ramen Annex as his third ramen-ya after developing a following for tsukemen in Des Plaines, and the menu also offers alternatives such as beef curry ramen, shrimp wonton ramen, and white mabo tofu ramen, with appetizers like takoyaki, kaki fry, and chicken karaage. Departing from Ramen Jiro’s brusque reputation, he prioritized patron comfort by building a 40-seat space with booths, tables, and counter seating along an open kitchen; the restaurant is open 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday–Friday and 11 a.m. to midnight on weekends." - Naomi Waxman