Japanese craze hits Taiwan: This shop ranks in top 10 pilgrimage list before even opening

▲ Ippudo Ramen. (Photo by Huang Shih-yuan)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

In recent years, many renowned international restaurants and cuisines have been introduced to the Taiwanese market. Dishes that once required a flight to enjoy can now be savored locally, making them popular pilgrimage spots for foodies. According to DailyView’s “Top 100 Reputation” list, which ranks the most talked-about eateries over the past six months based on online buzz, the rankings fluctuate over time. Recently, an unusual standout is Ippudo Ramen—though it hasn’t even opened yet, it has already secured the 8th spot in the top 10.

Even before announcing its entry into the Taiwanese market, Ippudo Ramen was already a must-try for Taiwanese travelers visiting Japan. Despite the abundance of delicious ramen in Japan, many feel their trip wouldn’t be complete without trying Ippudo. Rumors of Ippudo coming to Taiwan have circulated for years, and it was finally confirmed earlier this year that the brand’s first Taiwan outlet will open in June in Taipei’s Xinyi District. The news has thrilled many Ippudo fans. With the opening date drawing nearer, the restaurant has been generating increasing online buzz—even before its debut—and has now claimed the 8th spot on DailyView’s pilgrimage restaurant ranking. It’s also currently the only unopened eatery in the top 10.


▲ Ippudo Ramen’s unique “flavor concentration seats.” (Photo by Chen Shih-chang)

Beyond its much-loved broth and flavor, Ippudo Ramen offers another distinctive feature: seating designed like a study café, dubbed “flavor concentration seats” by the brand. These private booths allow guests to focus entirely on enjoying their ramen without distractions, eating however they like in a space where they don’t have to worry about anyone else’s gaze.