Over the past three years since my first move to Queens, my living situation has changed quite a bit but Takumen has remained constant. I’ve taken my sister, who moved in with me from Chicago, and has since moved abroad. I’ve taken my partner, who I now live with in a one-bedroom (with an in-unit washer and dryer!). I’m happy to still call this borough home, and that my ever-reliable go-to ramen spot has remained the same.
However, there has been one very welcome change. Now, everyday from 11:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m., their takeout window outside turns into a Japanese craft soft serve ice cream shop called Taku Parlor. As an ice cream fiend, the kind who devours a pint in the dead of winter, this has only made me love the restaurant even more. Expect to find me lining up on 50th Ave in the spring sunshine and the heat of summer.
Be it art, ramen, highballs, or ice cream — there’s something for everyone at this modern izakaya. And every time I go, it feels and tastes just as good as (or even better than) that first warm Queens welcome.
Takumen is open daily for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. and dinner from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.