I like Santouka’s pork cheek ramen so much that I won’t
think twice about where to get my ramen fix whenever a craving hits. But I
sometimes find myself at other ramen places following the whims and
fancies of my ramen-obsessed friend, who brought me to the newly-opened outpost
of the Fukuoka noodle chain Uma Uma Ramen.
The menu here is limited to two ramen varieties- the original Uma Uma ramen and a spicy version- as well as a small selection of side dishes and drinks. Do note that the ramen does not come with tamago- I should have perused the menu more thoroughly before ordering, sigh.
As characteristic of Hakata-style ramen, the noodles here
are straight and skinny, with a soft and silky bite. They're not my favorite type of noodles though- I like mine thick and firm or springy. The fall-apart tender chashu was pretty decent as well, but could have been more flavorful.
The soup was, however, a let-down for me. I relish the heartiness of a full-bodied tonkotsu broth, and Uma Uma's version was somewhat lacking in depth of flavor and richness. Perhaps those who usually find tonkotsu soup too thick and salty for
their liking will take a liking to Uma Uma’s broth.
No comments about the spicy chashu ramen since I'm not usually a fan of anything with chilli.
Whether you'll like Uma Uma probably boils down to your preferences. It's worth a try if you're curious about their noodles...but I personally prefer good ol' Santouka.
583 Orchard Road, Forum the Shopping Mall, #01-41/42/43
Singapore 238884
Singapore 238884
Opening hours 11:30am-3:00pm, 6:30pm-10:00pm (Mon-Sat); 11:30am-sold out (Sun)
Tel: 6235 1088
I've walked past this place a few times when I went to grab my coffee fix at Coffee Bean or Starbucks. It was under renovation whilst I was in Singapore - let's hope that it improves by the time I'm back (or considering the pace at which places open and shutter in Singapore, remains open).
ReplyDeleteI agree, good ol' Santouka.
agreed, competition is stiff with many ramen places opening store in singapore! i can never resist santouka's pork cheeks haha.
ReplyDeletei agree... we went there today after hearing about it.
ReplyDeleteTotal let down.
Ordered
1. Regular Uma Uma Ramen - Broth lacked depth, felt too oily to the point i felt a little sick. Egg added was ok not fantastic. Spring onion seemed to be regular chinese spring onion.
2. Char siew rice - Char siew was very good, but the rice was a complete let down. It wasn't japanese rice, the gravy was too little, and rice tasted too dry.
Won't ever go back.
Won't be on my Ramen Radar. Santouka for ramen, Ippudo for variety.