High Five Ramen, as its name suggests, serves only “Ramen” or “Japanese noodle soup,” complemented by the fermented rice beverage Sake. This restaurant specializes in the Tonkotsu variety of Ramen, which uses pork bones and plenty of spices. The bones are cooked for a very long duration to fully extract the flavors and blended with dried chilis, peppers, miso (soy paste) and nori (seaweed). Guests can try options like the signature High Five Ramen, Shotu Ramen with pork belly and cooked egg, and Kanabo Spice, which is the spiciest of all. Sip the Coconut Painkiller, so named because the sweetness of the coconut water complements the high level of spices in the broths. The dimly-lit restaurant interiors, with golden and purple illumination, resemble those of a luxury dining restaurant. However, the prices are moderate and patrons obtain good value for money here.

Website: highfiveramen.com

Phone: (312) 344-1749

Cross Streets: Between W Washington Blvd and W Randolph St