One of the more recent entries into the East Village ramen sweepstakes, Ippudo had one reviewer raving about broth he claimed was "liquid pork." In addition to the half- dozen variations on ramen, arguably Japan's national dish, there are small plates like fried oysters with wasabi mayo, a spring roll that's a takeoff on a Philly cheese steak and a casserole of spicy tofu, minced pork and crunchy noodles. A "lively atmosphere" and "prices that won't break the bank" can mean waits as long as an hour and a half. The good news is that, while you wait, you can enjoy a few orders of the "outstanding barbecue pork buns" that are offered on the bar menu.