Fodor's Expert Review Slurping Turtle
Slurping is not only allowed at this casual River North noodle shop—it's encouraged. Chef Takashi Yagihashi's ramen gained a cult following at his eponymous Bucktown restaurant—but it was only available on weekends for lunch; now the all-star ramen has a permanent home at Slurping Turtle. Bursting with umami, the ramen is almost a religious experience here—particularly the Shoyu ramen with egg noodle, classic Tokyo-style soy broth, braised pork shoulder, naruto, and bamboo shoots. Ramen portions are extremely generous, but it's worth making room for the bincho (white charcoal) grilled meats and yakitori snacks like duck fat–fried chicken.