Midtown Manhattan dining costs have surged significantly in recent years, with average lunch prices in the Garment District now exceeding $25 for a standard meal. According to recent industry reports on New York City food trends, budget-conscious commuters are increasingly seeking high-quality, affordable alternatives near major transit hubs like Penn Station. Zen Ramen & Sushi has positioned itself as a premier destination for these travelers, offering authentic Japanese cuisine that balances premium ingredients with accessible pricing. This guide breaks down the exact menu prices, happy hour specials, and takeout value propositions available at their 150 W 36th St location. (Zen Ramen 038 Sushi)
Ramen Bowl Pricing and Broth Options
Ramen is the cornerstone of the Zen Ramen & Sushi menu, and understanding the price points for each variety is essential for planning your takeout order. The restaurant prides itself on using traditional techniques to create rich, slow-simmered broths that justify the premium feel of the dish.
Tonkotsu Ramen
Tonkotsu Ramen is a staple for many Japanese food enthusiasts. Tonkotsu Ramen is a rich noodle soup made from pork bone broth. At Zen Ramen & Sushi, this dish features a creamy, collagen-rich broth that has been simmered for hours to achieve a deep, savory flavor profile. While specific dollar amounts for individual bowls fluctuate with ingredient costs, the Tonkotsu is positioned as a premium offering, typically priced higher than standard shoyu options due to the labor-intensive preparation.
Shoyu and Miso Varieties
For those preferring lighter or more complex flavor profiles, Shoyu and Miso ramen provide excellent alternatives. Shoyu Ramen is a clear soy sauce-based broth. It offers a lighter, saltier taste that pairs well with delicate toppings. Miso ramen, on the other hand, introduces a fermented soybean depth that is particularly comforting during New York winters. These bowls are often the go-to for commuters looking for a quick, warming meal before catching a train.
Spicy Ramen Options
Guests seeking heat will find the spicy ramen options highly rated. The spicy beef ramen, in particular, has been highlighted in customer reviews as a top-tier choice. The heat is balanced by the richness of the broth, ensuring the spice enhances rather than overpowers the dish. These bowls are ideal for those who want a robust lunch that provides sustained energy for the afternoon.
Sushi and Sashimi Cost Analysis
For takeout orders, sushi offers a versatile and fresh option. The pricing structure at Zen Ramen & Sushi reflects the quality of the fish and the craftsmanship involved in each roll.
Signature Rolls
The menu features a variety of handcrafted sushi rolls. The sweet potato roll is frequently mentioned in positive reviews for its unique combination of crispy texture and sweet flavor. Other popular options include the spicy tuna roll and various vegetable rolls. Prices for specialty rolls generally range from $12 to $18, depending on the ingredients and portion size.
Sashimi and Nigiri
Sashimi is thinly sliced raw fish served without rice. For purists, the fresh sashimi selection offers an unadulterated taste of the ocean. The restaurant sources high-quality fish daily to ensure freshness. Nigiri, which consists of a slice of fish draped over a small ball of vinegared rice, is another excellent takeout option. These items are priced individually or in sets, allowing customers to customize their order based on preference and budget.
Poke Bowls
Poke bowls have become a popular lunch choice in Midtown. These bowls typically feature cubed raw fish, rice, and various toppings like avocado, edamame, and seaweed. They offer a lighter, healthier alternative to heavier ramen dishes and are priced competitively with other fast-casual poke options in the area.
Appetizer and Side Dish Costs
Appetizers at Zen Ramen & Sushi are designed to complement the main courses or serve as a light meal on their own. The pricing is structured to encourage sharing, which is ideal for groups ordering takeout.
Edamame and Dumplings
The Garlic Edamame, prepared with spicy stir-fried sriracha, garlic, and sugar, is a crowd-pleaser priced at $11. Regular steamed edamame is available for $9. For dumpling lovers, the Gyoza (pan-fried pork dumpling) and Vegetable Gyoza are both priced at $10. These items are easy to pack and eat on the go, making them perfect for Penn Station commuters.
Tempura and Fried Items
Crawfish Tempura, served with Cajun aioli, is a unique offering priced at $16. The Rock Shrimp, crispy fried with spicy mayo, is another popular choice at $15. These fried items provide a crunchy texture contrast to the soft noodles and rice in other menu items. The Tempura Sampler is also available for those who want to try a variety of battered and deep-fried shrimps and mixed vegetables.
Salads and Cold Dishes
For a lighter option, the Cucumber Salad and Seaweed Salad are affordable sides priced at $7 and $9 respectively. The Kani Salad, featuring Japanese crab stick, cucumber, and Kewpie mayo, is priced at $9. These cold dishes are refreshing and hold up well in takeout containers.
Lunch Specials for Penn Station Commuters
One of the biggest draws for Zen Ramen & Sushi is its lunch specials. These deals are specifically designed for office workers and tourists looking for a quick, affordable meal during the day.
Value Proposition
Lunch specials typically offer a discounted price on select ramen bowls or sushi sets. While the exact discount varies, these specials often provide significant savings compared to dinner pricing. For example, a ramen bowl that costs $18 at dinner might be available for $12-$14 during lunch hours. This makes Zen Ramen & Sushi an excellent choice for budget-conscious diners in Midtown Manhattan.
Availability
Lunch specials are available daily. The restaurant is conveniently located near Penn Station, making it an easy stop for anyone passing through. The quick service ensures that commuters can grab their food and head to their next destination without long wait times.
Happy Hour Deals and Drink Pricing
Happy Hour at Zen Ramen & Sushi is a major attraction for locals and tourists alike. Running from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM daily, this period offers exclusive deals on food and drinks.
Food Specials
During happy hour, guests can enjoy discounted prices on Japanese appetizers, sushi rolls, and beers. The Mango Sunrise drink is frequently cited in reviews as a must-try. The happy hour menu allows guests to sample a variety of dishes at a lower price point, making it an ideal time to try new items or share multiple plates with friends.
Drink Menu
The drink selection includes Japanese beers, sake, and signature cocktails. Plum wine is another popular choice, often recommended by staff and customers. The happy hour pricing on drinks makes it an attractive option for after-work gatherings or pre-dinner drinks.
Takeout Logistics and Delivery Options
Zen Ramen & Sushi offers multiple options for taking their food away. Whether you prefer to pick it up yourself or have it delivered, the process is streamlined for convenience.
Ordering Online
Customers can order online through the restaurant's website or third-party delivery platforms. The online ordering system allows you to customize your ramen bowls, select your sushi rolls, and add appetizers with ease. This is particularly useful for groups ordering for office lunches or events.
Pickup and Delivery
Pickup is available at the 150 W 36th St location. The staff is known for being efficient and friendly, ensuring that your order is ready when you arrive. Delivery options are also available, though delivery fees and minimum order requirements may apply depending on the platform used. For large orders, catering services can be arranged by emailing catering@zenramensushiny.com.
Packaging Quality
The restaurant takes care to package its food properly to maintain quality during transit. Ramen broths and noodles are often packed separately to prevent sogginess, ensuring that the dish arrives fresh and delicious. Sushi is packed with care to preserve the integrity of the rolls and the freshness of the fish.
Key Takeaways
- Location: Zen Ramen & Sushi is located at 150 W 36th St, New York, NY 10018, in the Garment District, just minutes from Penn Station and Bryant Park.
- Ramen Quality: The Tonkotsu Ramen features a rich, slow-simmered pork bone broth, while Shoyu Ramen offers a clear soy sauce base.
- Lunch Specials: Daily lunch specials provide significant discounts on ramen and sushi, making it an affordable option for Midtown commuters.
- Happy Hour: Happy hour runs from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM daily, offering deals on appetizers, sushi, and drinks like the Mango Sunrise.
- Appetizer Prices: Key appetizers include Garlic Edamame ($11), Gyoza ($10), and Crawfish Tempura ($16).
- Takeout Options: Online ordering is available for pickup and delivery, with careful packaging to maintain food quality.
- Catering: The restaurant offers catering services for corporate events and parties, accessible via email.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the lunch hours at Zen Ramen & Sushi?
Lunch specials are available daily. The restaurant is open for both lunch and dinner service, with happy hour running from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
Does Zen Ramen & Sushi offer vegetarian options?
Yes, the menu includes vegetarian options such as Vegetable Gyoza, tofu-based dishes, and various vegetable sushi rolls. The Tokyo Veggie Crunch is also a popular vegetarian appetizer.
How can I order takeout from Zen Ramen & Sushi?
You can order takeout online through their website or by calling (646) 870-7509. Pickup is available at their 150 W 36th St location.
Is there parking near Zen Ramen & Sushi?
Parking in the Garment District can be challenging. It is recommended to use nearby parking garages or public transportation. The location is easily accessible via Penn Station.
What is the best happy hour drink at Zen Ramen & Sushi?
The Mango Sunrise is a highly recommended cocktail during happy hour. Plum wine is also a popular choice for those who prefer a traditional Japanese beverage.
Does Zen Ramen & Sushi cater for events?
Yes, they offer catering services for corporate lunches, birthday parties, and other events. You can inquire about catering by emailing catering@zenramensushiny.com.
How far in advance should I place a large takeout order?
For large orders or catering, it is advisable to place your order at least 24 hours in advance to ensure the availability of fresh ingredients and proper preparation.
Order Your Takeout Today
Whether you are a Penn Station commuter looking for a quick lunch or a tourist seeking authentic Japanese cuisine in Midtown Manhattan, Zen Ramen & Sushi offers exceptional value and quality. Their carefully curated menu, affordable lunch specials, and convenient takeout options make them a top choice for ramen and sushi lovers. Visit their menu page to explore the full range of dishes, or order online for pickup and delivery. For catering inquiries, contact them directly at catering@zenramensushiny.com. Experience the best of Japanese comfort food right in the heart of NYC.