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Welcome to 1981 Ramen Bar

**Our Story: 1981 Ramen Bar**

Nestled in Lowell, Massachusetts, 1981 Ramen Bar blends tradition with innovation in the world of ramen and izakaya-style dining. Established with a passion for authentic Japanese flavors, the bar offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for casual gatherings. Known for its signature Tonkotsu Ramen, enriched with a 48-hour pork broth, and delectable chef specials like Chicken Katsu, every dish reflects meticulous preparation and a commitment to quality. Vegetarian options and shareable tapas enhance the experience, making it ideal for families and groups. With a full bar and inviting ambiance, 1981 Ramen Bar promises memorable meals fueled by friendship and flavor.

1981 Ramen Bar: Reviews & Ratings

Kaylin G.
Kaylin G.

Solid ramen spot. We got spicy and regular tonkotsu ramen bowls. The broth was extremely flavorful, noodles cooked perfectly as well. I really appreciate how the eggs are marinated, I find many ramen restaurants will serve ramen and not marinate their eggs, but the eggs definitely elevate the dish as a whole. The pork belly was cooked perfectly, crispy while still melting in your mouth. The only part of the bowl I personally didn't love was the greens, in my own opinion I think it would've been perfect without them. There inside of the restaurant is dim lit and super chill feeling. When we were there there was someone singing as well! There is street parking along the road. Overall it is a great bowl of local ramen.

Channy I.
Channy I.

Haven't been here in forever & it's still a great spot! Went for some drinks and a few apps. The espresso martinis were great (thank you to our bartender Rakada). We had some edamame and cucumbers to share and they were nice and fresh. Will be back again soon!

Jasly S.
Jasly S.

The Steamed Baos are amazing! I've tried the Pork Belly Confit and Koji Aged Crispy Chicken ones and they both are packed with so much flavor. The Tonkotsu Ramen was so yummy the only thing I would recommend is removing the cloves from the pork belly. I chewed on a few pieces of cloves which made the for unpleasantly strong taste. Besides that it was so flavorful and the pieces of pork belly were huge!

Dave D.
Dave D.

Jimmy and his team delivered last night. I had the Tonkotsu Ramen with Chicken and Corn added to it. It hit the spot. Everyone was friendly, and the drinks were amazing. Must try the Lychee Martini. This was my first visit, I'll be back for sure.

Claudine R.
Claudine R.

Service was attentive and pleasant, quite busy on a Tuesday night, loud. Ordered the cucumber app, it was okay but definitely not worth $9 for 10 small pieces. Spicy miso was good but I've had better, pricey and it only had 2 pieces of chashu. I also asked for extra broth and was charged $2 more and it had the same amount of broth my BF had for just a regular order. Pricey ramen for this area, but if you're in a pinch and have no other choices, this place isn't bad, just expect to pay more.

Irena K.
Irena K.

So we tried marinated cucumber that not marinated. Its very fresh, and sauce pour on it. We wont try this again. My Tonkotsu Ramen tasted good with a big sliced grilled bacon (pork belly)? I typically need to order more protein but i dont hv to here its hits the spot. The only problem is w my ramen sticks together. I just dont eat it i ate the loose one only. Broth isnt as flavorful as zuru zuru but its pretty good overall

Paula C.
Paula C.

Ramen 1981 did not disappoint. The ambiance was on point with mixed of new beats and throw backs. The table service was good but the bar (drinks) was mmm yum! Lychee sake bellini!!! RAMEN! That's why we went there, of course. We had the boa flights for starters, the pork is my fav. Ramen was BOMB! I got the tonkotsu, really hit the spot. Overall great experience. For those of us on the out skirt of Boston, it's a must. We will returned.

Location

Welcome to 1981 Ramen Bar, where you'll embark on a delectable culinary journey right in the heart of Lowell, Massachusetts. Located at 129 Merrimack St, this unique dining experience marries the traditional flavors of Japan with a modern and vibrant atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for ramen aficionados and casual diners alike.

1981 Ramen Bar is not just about ramen; it's a celebration of flavors, creativity, and comfort. The extensive menu boasts tantalizing options like the renowned Tonkotsu Ramen crafted with a rich 48-hour pork broth and tender confit Berkshire pork belly, topped with a perfectly marinated egg and shiitake mushrooms. Each slurp offers a complexity of flavor that warms the soul. Additionally, the Smoked Chicken Ramen features a beautifully smoked chicken, enhancing the dish with a depth that leaves you craving more.

But it's not just about the bowls; the delightful Steamed Baos are a must-try. Indulge in the Pork Belly Confit or the Koji Aged Crispy Chicken, each packed with flavor and served with a variety of rich sauces that elevate each bite. Patrons rave about the exceptional taste, making these baos a perfect starter or an exciting addition to your meal.

The ambiance at 1981 Ramen Bar is equally inviting. With a dimly lit space that exudes a "chill" vibe, coupled with live entertainment some nights, this establishment is ideal for both intimate dinners and group celebrations. The casual atmosphere, combined with attentive service, assures a pleasant dining experience whether you’re enjoying a hearty meal or grabbing takeout for a cozy night in.

  • Utilities: They offer takeout, make reservations, and provide delivery options. Perfect for those on the move!
  • Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with options for dogs and bike parking.
  • Kid-Friendly: Good for all ages, making it a family-friendly dining oasis.
  • Innovative Payment: Accepts credit cards, cryptocurrency, Apple Pay, and Android Pay.

The reviews reflect a positive sentiment about the food quality and service. Customers appreciate the layered flavors and cooking techniques, with particular mentions of the marinated eggs and perfectly cooked pork belly. However, some feedback indicates a desire for refinement in pricing and portion sizes. Overall, the energy of 1981 Ramen Bar creates a welcoming environment for anyone looking to indulge in some of the best ramen around.

For those seeking a vibrant spot for dinner or happy hour specials paired with a full bar, 1981 Ramen Bar awaits your visit. With its impressive offerings and community atmosphere, this ramen bar is poised to become a staple in your dining repertoire. Don't forget to try one of their exquisite drinks, like the enticing lychee martini, to round off your experience!

For more details or to make a reservation, give them a call at (978) 970-1981. Dive into the world of ramen at 1981 Ramen Bar—a culinary delight that will leave your taste buds singing!