Ippin Ramen-Baxter

If you are looking for authentic flavors of the East in the heart of Minnesota, Ippin Ramen is a must-visit on your itinerary. This popular Japanese restaurant, located near the city of Brainerd, offers guests an immersion into the culture of traditional ramen and sushi within the welcoming atmosphere of the USA.

The establishment is famous for its high-quality cuisine and cozy, modern interior, which is equally suitable for a business lunch or a warm family dinner. The main focus here is on the freshness of ingredients and strict adherence to traditional recipes, as evidenced by consistently high visitor ratings.

The menu features various versions of ramen with rich broths, alongside fresh sushi, rolls, and sashimi. Ippin Ramen is not just a place to eat, but a true gastronomic oasis that combines Eastern aesthetics with American hospitality.

To contact the restaurant management or clarify booking details, you can use the contact information below. It is recommended to check for availability in advance, especially during evening hours and on weekends.

The main thing to do at Ippin Ramen is to embark on an exciting gastronomic journey. You can start by tasting different types of ramen: from classic tonkotsu to original vegetarian options. A special feature of the restaurant is the ability to customize your dish by choosing the broth's spice level and additional toppings yourself.

Fans of visual experiences should take a seat at the bar to watch the virtuoso work of the chefs preparing sushi and sashimi right in front of the guests. This adds an interactive element to the visit and ensures the impeccable freshness of the products. Be sure to try the signature rolls and hot appetizers, such as golden tempura or yakisoba.

For those who want to discover seasonal flavors, the restaurant often offers a special menu featuring rare ingredients. If you are planning an outdoor picnic or a cozy evening at your hotel, the establishment provides a convenient takeout service, packaging each dish to preserve its perfect temperature and taste.

Finding Ippin Ramen is easy: the restaurant is conveniently located in Baxter, which is the closest suburb to the city of Brainerd. If you are arriving by car from the central part of the city, follow highway MN-210 heading north. The drive takes about 10 minutes, and there is a spacious free parking lot right in front of the entrance for guests.

For those arriving in the region by plane, the most convenient option is to use a taxi or ride-sharing service directly from Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport, located about 5–10 km away. Since public transport in this suburban area is infrequent, a car remains the most reliable option.

If you are staying at one of the hotels within a couple of kilometers, the restaurant can be reached by bicycle or a short walk. The establishment is situated in a busy commercial zone on Fairview Road and is clearly visible from the street.

Although Ippin Ramen is a modern gastronomic project, it has quickly become a significant spot on the Minnesota map, bringing authentic Japanese traditions to the region's culinary landscape. Its success is due to strict adherence to classic recipes, which allowed the establishment to earn one of the highest ratings among Asian restaurants in the county in a short time.

The restaurant opened in response to the growing demand for quality Eastern cuisine outside of major metropolitan areas. During its time in operation, the establishment has built a community of regular guests who appreciate the consistent quality and freshness of the ingredients. Interestingly, the chefs here adhere to principles of openness, allowing visitors to observe some stages of the food preparation.

The interior and service approach reflect the philosophy of omotenashi — traditional Japanese hospitality, where attention to detail and guest comfort are paramount. It is this combination of historical culinary heritage and modern service that has made the restaurant a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

For a full dining experience at Ippin Ramen, we recommend setting aside 1 to 2 hours. This is enough time to explore the menu without rushing, enjoy a hot soup, and try several types of signature rolls in a cozy atmosphere.

If you drop by for a quick lunch during a busy workday, you can finish in about 45–60 minutes. The service speed is usually high, although waiting times may increase slightly during evening hours and on weekends due to the large number of visitors.

Ippin Ramen welcomes guests daily except for Tuesdays. From Monday to Thursday, the restaurant is open from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM. On Friday and Saturday, the doors stay open longer — until 9:30 PM, making it an excellent option for a late dinner. On Sunday, the restaurant operates on a slightly shorter schedule: from 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM.

As hours may change on holidays, visitors are encouraged to check current information on the official website or by phone before planning a visit.

Exploring the surrounding area after a delicious meal can significantly enrich your trip. The Baxter and neighboring Brainerd area offer many interesting locations, from historical buildings to modern tasting rooms.