How Itto Ramen Began
Itto Ramen Bar & Tapas was born from a deep passion for noodles and Japanese cuisine. Having grown up eating noodles every day, Tony Lin's love for this dish was reignited during a 2015 trip to Japan. After years of running Hana Sushi downtown, the opportunity arose to take over the old Lucky Otter space in West Asheville. This allowed the vision to come to life—creating a ramen bar where locals could enjoy authentic, slow-cooked ramen and small plates with a personal touch.
🍜 Soulful Broths at Itto
Chef Tony Lin’s ramen is more than just a meal; it’s a soulful experience. After transforming the space once occupied by Lucky Otter, Lin’s carefully crafted broths, simmered for hours, have become a crowd favorite. Patience and time are key, ensuring each bowl delivers a rich, flavorful taste that keeps locals returning for more.
🏠 A Beloved West Asheville Spot
Itto Ramen Bar & Tapas resides in one of West Asheville's most cherished locations—the former Lucky Otter. Once an Asheville institution, this space has now been reborn with a modern Japanese twist, while still maintaining the same warm, inviting vibe. Locals remember their fond experiences here, and the sense of community remains as strong.
🕰️ Slow-Cooked Ramen Perfection
At Itto, the ramen process is an art. Broths simmer for six to eight hours, carefully watched over for maximum flavor. The recipe, passed down through generations, features a secret blend of ingredients. Fresh, house-made noodles are cooked to perfection, offering a taste of quality and precision with every bite.
🍤 Innovative Tapas Dishes
While Itto’s ramen honors tradition, its tapas menu is full of playful and bold flavors. Lin combines seasonal, locally sourced ingredients with a twist—like crispy collards and sweet miso—to create dishes that are both familiar and exciting. Each small plate showcases his creativity and commitment to quality.