Seemor
Menya GokuA-Worth Trying
2207 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
· Ramen restaurant, Bar, Japanese restaurant
· 4.8/5 Google (269 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Excellent Chicago ramen with standout tantanmen and cozy vibes; small room, waits at peak, and a few salty or service hiccups noted.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Menya Goku delivers exceptional food quality anchored by rich, balanced broths and standout tantanmen that justify its reputation as a top-tier ramen destination. Friendly, efficient service and reliable execution across multiple years support the grade A- standing, though tight seating and peak-hour waits and occasional salty broth variability prevent higher placement. A neighborhood gem that competes with the city's best ramen shops.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels cozy and intimate with small booths and thoughtful details like coat hooks, and the vibe shifts from calm at open to a buzzy neighborhood rush at peak. Guests praise friendly, efficient servers and note that arriving early or late keeps waits short. One diner put it simply: "the broth was luxurious and the noodles had perfect bite." On the plate, Menya Goku leans elevated traditional over theatrics: rich tonkotsu, a city-favorite tantanmen with numbing spice, and tender pork belly buns. The cooking targets balance and depth more than novelty, though a vegan ramen and flexible add-ons broaden appeal. Expect an honest ramen shop rhythm—excellent most nights, with the occasional salty bowl or slower pace when the room is slammed. Families can do well here if timing is right. Kids who like simple comforts may gravitate to karaage chicken, buns, or mild broths, but the compact space and peak-hour waits can be tough. There is no explicit kids menu; plan for earlier seatings and straightforward choices.
At a Glance
- Deep, satisfying broths with standout tantanmen
- Cozy atmosphere and friendly, efficient service
- Small room leads to waits at peak times
- Occasional salty broth or clumped noodles on busy nights
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- signature_tantanmen
- cozy_private_booths
- house_made_noodle_texture
What People Love
- That first hit of rich broth warmth
- Noodles with ideal chew
- Pork belly buns that practically melt
- Reliable takeout packaging for nearby regulars
Points of Concern
- Dining room is small; 20-40 minute waits common at peak, arrive early or after 8pm
- A few reports of overly salty or spicy bowls; ask for guidance on heat levels
- Isolated service issues (missing add-ons, wrong buns) during rush
- One complaint about being questioned on tip; appears isolated
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$28-40 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Start with karaage ($10) and takoyaki ($7), then choose tan tan men ($17) or tonkotsu ($15). Add an ajitama egg ($1). Vegan diners should request the vegan miso ramen.
Perfect For
- A casual date over steaming bowls
- Neighborhood ramen cravings after work
- Solo slurp sessions at off-peak hours
- Friends comparing Chicago ramen spots
Location Insights
Area: Residential-commercial corridor near Welles Park; relaxed neighborhood crowd with date-night and family traffic.
Safety: Generally safe, walkable, well-lit; typical city foot traffic in evenings.
Nearby: Near Welles Park and Lincoln Square strip; surrounded by cafes, bars, and casual eateries.
Irving ParkIrving Park offers a balanced dining scene with casual eateries, ethnic restaurants, and family-friendly spots. The neighborhood has a welcoming, community-oriented atmosphere with accessible public transit and a blend of older and newer establishments catering to everyday dining and social gatherings.
Montrose Avenue CorridorThis stretch along Montrose Avenue is known for its concentration of diverse dining options, including popular Asian eateries and casual spots that attract both neighborhood locals and visitors from other parts of the city looking for quality, authentic flavors in a relaxed setting.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday17:00–21:00
Wednesday17:00–21:00
Thursday17:00–21:00
Friday17:00–22:00
Saturday17:00–22:00
Sunday
Available: Delivery, Takeout
View full analysis on Seemor →