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Overview
Updated April 2026
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Menkoi Sao, a hidden gem on Cornelia Street in the West Village, is one of the best ramen shops in NYC for authentic Hokkaido-style flavors. This cozy Japanese restaurant specializes in creamy chicken-based paitan ramen, made from a silky, slow-simmered broth that feels both comforting and refined. Beyond the ramen, Menkoi Sao is famous for its authentic Hokkaido-style fried chicken (Zangi), marinated for deep flavor and fried until perfectly golden and crispy. Their seasoned ajitama egg, with a soft yolk and savory marinade, is another signature topping that makes every bowl unforgettable.
Location
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Our Take
For anyone searching for the best ramen in the West Village, Menkoi Sao delivers a taste of Sapporo in downtown Manhattan. This Japanese ramen shop builds its reputation on a richly satisfying chicken paitan broth, paired with springy noodles and thoughtfully chosen toppings like the perfectly seasoned ajitama egg. What sets it apart from other ramen restaurants in New York City is its Hokkaido-style fried chicken, also known as Zangi—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and every bit as crave-worthy as the ramen itself. With its intimate Cornelia Street storefront, Menkoi Sao has become a go-to spot for ramen lovers seeking authentic Japanese comfort food in NYC. Fun fact: Menkoi Sao is now under new ownership, with a new team carrying the shop forward.
Community photos
Real bowls uploaded by ramen lovers who’ve checked in here.
Uploaded by Thursdaybabyy. View this community ramen photo and related restaurant details.
Uploaded by Thursdaybabyy. View this community ramen photo and related restaurant details.
Uploaded by Ramen NYC. View this community ramen photo and related restaurant details.
Uploaded by Ramen NYC. View this community ramen photo and related restaurant details.
Uploaded by Ramen NYC. View this community ramen photo and related restaurant details.
Uploaded by Ramen NYC. View this community ramen photo and related restaurant details.
Community reviews
Average rating: 4 / 5
NYNJ Ramen Enthusiast
4/28/2026
🍜5 / 5ramen rating
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Spend: $20–30
“Menkoi Sato closed its doors a little while back and recently re-opened as Menkoi SAO, after its new owner, Saori-san. Everything appears to be the same with two exceptions. First, there is no alcohol on the menu yet as they are still working through obtaining their liquor license. And there is a new menu item, Fiber ramen, which I decided to give a try. The ramen still comes out piping hot as it always did before. The soup is a vegetable broth with shio koji, miso and a “hint” of spice. It packs a punch. Addictively delicious, the shio koji, which is fermented rice use to tenderize meats and develop depth of flavor, combines with the miso to deliver a rich, deep taste one would not associated with vegetable broths. The noodles are still imported from Nishiyama in Hokkaido and are the star of the bowl. The toppings, which give it the fiber moniker, are cabbage, moyashi bean sprouts, chives, mushrooms, garlic, ginger and minced pork. Delicious and healthy?! This was crazy good, and so unique for the area ramen scene. Phew! Very relieved Menkoi is still a great spot for a great bowl.”
Thursdaybabyy
2/20/2026
🍜3 / 5ramen rating
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Spend: $20–30
“Still one of my favorite places, but the taste of the food has changed a bit. I went to their grand reopening last night and felt so welcomed in the space. The staff is awesome and the atmosphere was great. That said, I have to admit the flavors of the ramen were a little different than I remember. I still enjoyed the meal, but it felt slightly underwhelming compared to past visits.”
Ramen NYC
1/9/2026
The Chashu kidd
6/18/2025
🍜4 / 5ramen rating
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 4
Vegetarian: Great vegetarian options
Spend: $20–30
“Menkoi Sato is one of my favorite spots in NYC. The chicken broth is clean, flavorful, and it holds true to the Hokkaido style. Their ramen menu has something for everyone. The atmosphere is relaxed and the space works well for groups, plus the staff is always friendly and welcoming. This is most likely the best ramen you can get in that west 4th area.”
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Frequently asked questions
- Today’s hours: 12:00–22:30. Hours may change on holidays.
- We summarize popular bowls here and link to the official menu for full details. Open the official menu →
- Yes. Vegetarian options are available; toppings vary by season. Ask staff if you have dietary restrictions.
- 7 Cornelia St, New York, NY 10014 (Manhattan)
- Phone: +12127271050. For updates, check their social links or Google Maps listing.
- Yes — share your bowl with the Ramen NYC community. Add a review in the app →
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