Naruto
This underrated, unassuming Upper East Sider has a lock on the neighborhood. Narrow and tiny with counter seating only, the restaurant has attracted a proliferation of area youngsters who love to watch cooks toiling over bubbling vats of broth. Though the thick curry and miso varieties are among the local favorites, the signature Naruto ramen featuring fish cakes, scallion, egg, bamboo shoots and pork in a soy-based soup is an especially substantial bowl. The pork-stuffed gyoza also get high marks from regulars, while Monday and Wednesday specials ($2 off ramen or gyoza) offer great value.