I had been given a tip about Butao from a Japanese client and followed up on it. What I got surpassed my expectations and warmed my soul.
We visited Butao just before the evening rush and were seated and given a menu and order card, along with a glass of water (the table also had a jug of water for easy self-service). We both ordered the Butao Ramen and made the various adjustments and choices of belly pork and spice level, flavour strength etc etc. The interior is really nice and is a kind of neo-traditional Japanese style. Very cool, but also inviting.
In about 10 minutes, we had a steaming bowl in front of each of us. After adding a few pickles and some sesame to the ramen, we started eating. At first, we were not too sure, as the taste is not the normal watery broth flavour that you get in most places. After a couple of spoons, were were diving in with relish. The richness of the broth and the quality of the ingredients were incredible. The pork belly was silky smooth and the noodles were cooked to perfection. The feeling of satisfaction during and after eating it is something that I will not soon forget.
It is not the cheapest ramen at 83 dollars and up, but it is the best I have eaten in Hong Kong. We will certainly try out their other locations and will happily fork out 83 dollars each for it.