Kitakata Ramen Ban Nai - Lombard

We’ve been here a couple of times now and it is always one of our favorite places to visit when we are in the area. The staff are consistently kind, friendly, and welcoming, which makes every visit feel comfortable and enjoyable. The ramen is absolutely incredible and the flavor is truly unmatched, rich, comforting, and clearly made with care. Every time I eat here it reminds me of the ramen I had while visiting Japan, which brings back such great memories and makes the experience even more special. It is the kind of place we always look forward to returning to and we will definitely be back again.

I am a huge fan of the original Kitakata Ramen in Hoffmann Estates, so I had high hopes for this new location in Lombard. It is a good imitation of the original but does not quite match up to them in quality. The easiest difference to spot between the two locations is their aesthetics. This location is larger and newer. There is much more space to sit and be comfortable. The other big difference is in their menu. This location has the same ramen menu as the Hoffmann Estates location, but they additionally also have a Hawaiian food menu. Our server was telling me that it started as a take out service but now can be ordered for dine in service. I did not order anything off the Hawaiian menu and just stuck to the ramen. The ramen is very similar to the one I grew to love at the Hoffm

I visited here for the first time on a certain day in September 2025. I always visit the other branch in Schaumburg. I was on the way from Indiana to Paltine IL. I ordered a Kitakata Ramen with Shredded Onion as A Lunch Bowl. Those were so good. Next time I will try Umakara Tan Tan Ramen. That's my favorite at the other branch in Schaumburg.

Nice atmosphere and the creamy vegan ramen is amazing 🥰. Huge portions! Already ate my fill so the picture is sloppy but it was presented nicely. Edit: Visited again recently and the creamy vegan ramen was removed from the menu 😭. It was replaced with a vegan miso ramen and some other vegetarian options. I ordered the vegan miso ramen and it was very mediocre, especially in comparison to the creamy vegan. It’s topped with a ton of cabbage, and the broth flavor was very one-note and salty, though the sesame oil was nice. Overall just seemed like this new recipe was made without much care for vegans. Hoping the creamy vegan will return since it was my favorite meal in the area.

Highly disappointed with the quality of food I received. I ordered Tan Tan for takeout and what I received was horrible. What should have been cubed pork looked more like tuna! This location needs to step it up badly! I've never had this issue at the Hoffman location. Total disappointment and waste of money. 😔