Oodles of Noodles

Four places to try some of Intown’s best ramen

By Isadora Pennington

Ramen, a wheat-based noodle soup, has a rich history of adaptation and inspiration. Originally developed as a result of the influx of wheat into Asia after World War II, the dish has filled every role from cheap eat to astronaut food to elevated cuisine. The possibilities for variations of this classic dish are endless with base options including pork, bone, chicken, vegetarian and seafood, among others. The noodles can be thin or thick, and the toppings often include seaweed, eggs, scallions and sprouts.

Make reservations now: 404.588.0006 agaverestaurant.com

My first experience with ramen came in elementary school when I had a best friend who was half Japanese. Oddly enough, I never actually saw Amy’s family make instant ramen as a meal, instead they would break it up in the bag and put it in a bowl then sprinkle the seasoning over it and eat it dry. Later, as a college student and then young professional trying to make ends meet, I found the convenience of cooking instant noodles to be a lifesaver when money was tight.

While I have a personal affinity for the instant noodle varieties, there’s no doubt that I’ve continued my love – and, dare I say, elevated my tastes – for ramen into adulthood. Luckily, Atlanta has a huge array of restaurants that sell this delectable dish. While many include ramen as one option on their menu, there are other restaurants that have dedicated their entire concept to this tasty noodle soup. Listed below are four of my personal favorite restaurants to try this dish for yourself.

130 Clairemont Ave., Suite 100, Decatur taiyoramen.com or (404) 996-6504

Beautiful Briny Sea Salt, chicken broth, rolled sliced pork belly, vegetable, soft-boiled seasoned egg, scallions, garlic soy reduction - $12.00 Creamy chicken bone broth, pulled chicken, garlic chili oil, soft-boiled seasoned egg, ginger, scallions - $13.00

▲ JINYA Ramen Bar

5975 Roswell Road, B217, Sandy Springs (also 3714 Roswell Road, Buckhead) jinya-ramenbar.com or (404) 600-6974

Karaage Chicken Ramen: chicken broth, crispy chicken, chili sauce, green onion, bamboo shoots, seasoned egg, non-dried seaweed, served with thin noodles - $12.95 (October and November Chef’s Special)

Spicy Creamy Vegan Ramen: vegetable broth, tofu, onion, green onion, spinach, crispy onion, garlic chips, garlic oil, chili oil, sesame seeds, thick noodles - $12.95

you?

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