Price: $9.50
Family-owned Muku Ramen, which reopened late last year, of course has ramen; it specializes in pork belly in the pork-based broth called Hakata-tonkotsu, though there are chicken and vegetarian options new for 2025. But it’s the Muku fried chicken that’s a highlight for me from an 11-item menu. This crispy delight comes at a generous portion for its price, but my love for it doesn’t stop there. The coating has a perfectly joyful crunch; the chicken inside is juicy and tender. A dipping sauce of soy sauce with garlic, scallions and ponzu, a Japanese citrus vinaigrette, gives each bite just the right notes of tangy, salty and savory. This chicken appetizer alone could be a satisfying meal, and will be my go-to “easy night out” meal for some time. Fun tip: It washes down great with an ice-cold beer. (Make sure to order the karaage extra crispy!)
Muku Ramen, 411 Massachusetts Ave., Central Square, Cambridge
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