COLD NOODLES? YES, PLEASE

A welcome sign of the changing season isn’t just warming weather, it’s cold noodles, especially for those fond of ramen. And the best place to find cold noodles in Salem is AKAI Ramen & Izakaya which features the seasonal dish on its menu until the end of Summer.

The local eatery, which opened in late December 2022, offers up silky, springy Somen noodles (thinly cut wheat flour noodles that have a light texture and mild flavor) served with a balanced portion of shredded egg, fresh shrimp, crispy cucumber and juicy tomato, with a splash of Somen sauce — no broth — and topped with green onion. A classic.

Keep it local and honor the izakaya side of things (izakaya is a traditional Japanese bar that serves alcoholic beverages and affordable snacks and dishes) — add a bottle of Momokawa Junmai Ginjo Craft Sake from SakéOne Brewery out of Forest Grove to your meal. The medium-dry sake pairs well with Somen. And include some panseared veggie gyoza to start.

Somen Cold Noodles at AKAI truly fit the summertime vibe — A refreshing bite to satisfy that ramen itch. Enjoy!

380 High St SE | Downtown Salem akairamenizakaya.com

11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sun-Thurs 11 a.m. - 12 a.m. Fri & Sat