Arrived in Charlotte and knew I wanted to check Futo Buta out. Sadly, with a busy schedule it took 3 days before I could actually get here with numerous attempts on trying to trek out on previous days. Top it off with the weird parking situation which confused us out of towners and a little hike to get to the restaurant made for a very distraught traveler. So you have to be something to literally turn a frown upside down.
We came in, no one really gave us any info on what to do, no signs off the bat to say seat yourself (not that we saw immediately??). A group came in after us and promptly seated themselves so we followed along. And that's were grumpy town ended. From the waitstaff to the food to the impromptu double rainbow outside. I mean, it was a great way to end a very stressful work weekend.
What we got:
Eggplant buns - Good. Not my favorite of the things we ordered but being a veggie bun I cannot complain! A bit greasy.
Duck confit buns - Yes, yes, yes! Would order this again and definitely recommend. Greasy as well-- but so good.
Tonkotsu - I think it was good? I didn't order this, and the friend who did didn't complain/said it was nice. Looked like a good traditional ramen.
Niwa - This was interesting. Probably the prettiest of the three we ordered. Lots of veg, a peanut-y and savory broth. Might consider this for myself if I ever come here again.
Fire and Ice - Can't go wrong. Bit of dashi and a sweet gochujang coupling. Pretty presentation. I imagine this wouldn't be as preferred for ramen lovers who prefer their ramen on the salty side. Underneath the fresh veg was a treasure--- delicious glazed salmon on a bed of nice noodles. Would be a tough contender for round 2!
Waitress was super nice to us and I appreciate the energy. Plus we all kinda ran out (some of the staff included) of the restaurant right after we ordered to gawk at a double rainbow. Was a really awesome experience.
If you need your spice they have several options available too!
Parking-- There is street parking a little ways down from the restaurant and supposedly a parking deck. We couldn't find the deck for it until after we left. Either way we had to do a little bit of walking. Really nice area though. If you're from Atlanta-- it's a lot like our Beltline but add a train and more trees.
Atmosphere-- The restaurant is a little cramped. We were lucky to find seating, but they also have a patio. Very cool aesthetic overall.
Anyways, thanks for the awesome end to my trip Futo Buta!