The Lower East Side has its fair share of hyped-up ramen shops—some with perpetual lines, and another that Netflix once took a special interest in. This Allen Street izakaya, on the other hand, has been simmering, frying, and grilling Japanese comfort food since 2015, with almost none of the internet attention its neighbors recieve. We prefer it that way. Mr. Taka always has a seat at the counter or a table, waiting for you. Pop in on a weeknight for an easy dinner—Mr. Taka doesn't accept reservations—and sit under a neon sign and some lanterns, while you drink ice cold Sapporo on draft. The restaurant serves about 10 types of ramen on their menu, but on your first visit, get the spicy stamina. With its smack of garlic and two different types of pork, the bowl might just offer the strength needed to walk home.