Daiichi Ramen

I always crave something soupy after swimming. So here I was during peak dinner hours, the restaurant bustling and tables filled. At Daiichi Ramen. A former co-worker of mine who was also dining, blessed me with a surprise. She left before I could thank her. This was just recently. Let's go back to 80 days ago. On a cold, winter evening I was in search of something comforting, possibly warmth from a bowl of ramen. It was after an event and my appetite was in need of some attention, badly. I found myself at, Daiichi Ramen. Forty-two days later, I found myself in the same predicament. On a Tuesday again, how funny. But this time, it was later in the afternoon after watching a movie at the theater. In surf shorts and a t-shirt + no jacket, it was time again for something warm and hearty. Across the parking lot, perfect. Daiichi Ramen, Prince Kuhio Plaza. A total of three visits for this review within a span of almost three months. I also dined here multiple times prior as well. Never a dull moment, always enticing to sit down and make a choice. Of which dish to select. This menu is inviting, one of the "plus" moments that keeps me coming back for more. Combo meals + sides. Plates, fried noodles and fried rice. Ramen options galore. And the list goes on. Someone pinch me, I need to focus and make a choice! ×°×°×°×°×°×°×°×°×°×°×°×°×°×°× Soft, smooth, thin-style ramen noodles. A reason why their ramen bowls get delivered in a timely manner even when busy. Cooking time is quick for these thin noodles. Crunchy fresh vegetables. Especially in their "Big Bowl Ramen". Generous amounts of cabbage, bean sprouts, sliced carrots, wakame and bamboo shoots. This go-to menu item for me is garnished with kamaboko slices, nori and an ajitsuke tamago. I opt for no green onions. Toppings vary depending on which ramen is ordered. Tender meat toppings like their charsui are offered in select ramen bowls. Thanks to the pork being roasted and simmered, this cooking process makes it more tender than Chinese charsui. Their freshly-made wontons also make a great addition. Don't forget to choose your broth when ordering. Choose from miso, shoyu or shio. Upgrade to tonkotsu, black garlic or tan tan. There's even a curry or spicy option. Although their ramen broth is satisfying, I feel it lacks a bit. The depth of flavor and complexity, the richness in taste and creaminess I'm seeking. The umami flavor that Tonkotsu or Shoyu broth is known for. It's not fully present. But let me say this again, the broth is still satisfying. To me, that is. Would you still believe me if I told you I still enjoy my bowl of ramen here? Because I do, everytime. Even though there are missed points in the broth, I feel it's still decent. Really. Thank you to the kitchen team for always presenting each dish with care. Most times, I'm packing up leftovers for another meal. Curry, how I love curry. Sweet + savory Japanese curry. Golden brown, crispy chicken katsu with curry on rice. A combination too good, too yummy. I just wish more curry sauce was on this plate. Finding myself with bare bites of rice and chicken at times, possibly the portion control of curry on this dish may need to be revisited. Or plating may need to be revised. Just my take, my thoughts. Still enjoyable in flavor and presentation. Who doesn't want gyoza, these delicious fried dumplings that make a great appetizer or side dish to an already enjoyable meal. A sauce combination of soy and vinegar, perfect for dipping. Find it on the condiment caddy. ×°×°×°×°×°×°×°×°×°×°×°×°×°×°× The team of individuals here always delivers. Every visit, not a miss. This is one part of the operation at this Daiichi location that remains extremely consistent no matter when I dine, any time of the day. The people here are attentive, service oriented. They make me feel valued, that my choice to dine here is welcomed and appreciated. A greeting with eye contact when entering and, gratitude expressed when departing. When it's extremely busy, patience from me in regards to service is granted. ×°×°×°×°×°×°×°×°×°×°×°×°×°×°× The first location of Daiichi Ramen was in Aiea, Island of O'ahu in 1999. This family business run by Paul Ke now has seven locations in Hawai'i. Offering two locations on the Big Island of Hawai'i, one in Kona and the other in Hilo. I will be back, a factual statement indeed. Regardless of the few critical points made, I always depart satisfied with a desire to return. People make a difference and here, they do. Both back and front teams. Thanks. With so many options on the menu still to try, it just makes my next visit even more exciting. I think it'll be Fried Rice, or Spicy Tan Tan. Aghhh, the decision to choose! I can't wait for that moment to come.

Great food to eat in this timely manner of ambiance restaurant Very quiet and quick service Definitely will be back again to satisfy my cravings.

It's like getting Japanese ramen shop food at its finest in Hilo. My favorite go to is the miso ramen set with gyoza and fried rice. It's just right and it brings back fond memories of eating in Japan.

Daiichi Ramen have the best customer service and the food comes out very fast. I would rate this restaurant a 10!!!' They have delicious food here!!!!

Always good service with water refilled frequently. Everything is great! Love the ramen. Lots of parking. Comfortable seating and lots of tables. We will return .