Fuku Ramen

I was soaked to the knees one November afternoon, standing under the awning of a small shop in Oost, watching the rain pour down. That’s when I spotted Fuku Ramen. I didn’t know it then, but it would become my go-to spot for a quick, comforting bite when the weather turned ugly. The place is tiny, tucked into the quieter side of Amsterdam-Oost near Park Frankendael, and it’s not flashy or loud. It’s cozy, with an open kitchen, and a counter seat that lets you watch the ramen being made. My friend Sara once told me she’d never had a ramen so hot it warmed her face before she even picked up her chopsticks — and that’s exactly what happened with the tonkotsu here. It’s rich, creamy, and made with pork bones that have been simmered for hours. The noodles are handmade, and the chashu pork is tender. There’s also a soft-boiled egg, and honestly, it’s all you need. The menu is simple — just a few ramen options and some sides — but that’s exactly why it works. It’s not about choice, it’s about quality. I’ve been here for lunch on weekdays and it’s never taken more than five minutes to get a seat. Friday and Saturday nights? Not so much. I always go for the counter seat, and I recommend it too. It’s a little more intimate, and you get to watch the chef work. I’ve seen the Polish chef, Jakub, make the broth from scratch, and it’s a process that takes time. He trained in Osaka, and you can tell. The restaurant also gained a bit of attention during the pandemic through DIY ramen kits, which is kind of a fun story. It’s not a place you’d drive to, or plan a whole evening around. It’s a stop when you’re cold and wet and just want something warm and good. The vibe is calm, and it’s not a touristy spot, but it’s also not tucked away in a secret alley. It’s right where you’d expect to find a quiet, residential neighborhood, but it’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve found a secret. It’s not a five-course experience, but the ramen is solid, and the service is quick. The prices are around 14–16 euros, and it’s a good value for what you get. If you’re looking for something more elaborate, this isn’t it. But if you want a bowl of ramen that hits the spot, it’s one of the best in the city. I always tell people to check the hours, though — they’re Thursday to Sunday, 12 to 3 and 6 to 10. I’ve also heard they do a brunch on Sundays, but I haven’t tried it yet. Just know that it’s not a place you want to wait in line for, especially on weekends. And if you’re into the idea of trying something new, the five-course Japanese-inspired menu they sometimes offer is worth a look, but the ramen is where it’s at. I’ve seen it featured in a few food blogs and even on TopJaw, and it’s not hard to see why. It’s the kind of place that feels like a local favorite, not a trendy hotspot. I don’t know if it’s still running the same deals, but if you’re in the area, go check it out. You won’t regret it.