Otaku has been referred to people with obsessive interests.
Whether you’re into feet, Hello Kitty, Bob Marley LPs, it is all up to you.
In the realm of food, Otaku exist in the cult like following with Ramen. There is even a Ramen museum.
Unlike the 3 for $1.50 ones we ate in college dorm rooms, Ramen – with a capital “R” has a more romanticized journey.
To best understand Japanese culinary, patrons must understand that the chefs are presenting art at the table and not merely a dish.
Not having been to Santa Ramen since they moved from their hole in the wall location, on a warm Saturday night the S line that overflowed outside the door heightened my stomach while frustrated my sense. It was just 6:15pm
After a seemingly long 35 minute wait, we were seated on classic wooden tables. The decor is minimalist allowing the Ramen to play center stage.
As I rose my chopsticks in preparation to conduct my food orchestra, I stopped just for a light pause. As a food writer, this slight but needed paused is taken as reflection.
While traveling to Tokyo, I learned that food is not meant to be eaten in front of the television but to be deeply enjoyed. Just before take off, I thought about countless hours the chef placed into producing this broth.
Order the house special Tonkotsu Ramen ($7.95) which did not disappoint. Arriving in a milky broth, my lips quivered as I slurped the revered broth. Immediately, I had taste Unami – known as the fifth sense. Served in a black elegant bowl with imperial etchings added minor flare.
Savory and sweet notes meet at a perfect intersection.
The result is a taste, better yet an addiction that has caused Otaku Ramen.
With my two wooden weapons, I slurp the egg noodles. Uhhh. The texture is chewy with pungent egg taste. For just $1.50 more, I ordered extra noodles to prolong my slurp fest.
Minor characters including crunchy scallions that display precision knife skills.
(note: In Japan, slurping noodles loud indicates to the chef that the food is delicious)
Just as if I was Meg in When Harry Met Sally, I had reached food orgasm. Instead of screaming and embarrassing myself, I ordered the fried chicken.
With a nutty crust, the chicken was over cooked with a hint of burnt taste.
For a taste of Japanese comfort food, the drive to San Mateo from the city was worth the trip.
After the meal, I hop scotched over to Clear Optometry for refreshing frozen yogurt with chewy mochi.
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Price Breakdown
People:2
Order: 2 pork ramen w/ extra noodle (~$11), 1 fried chicken ($5.50)
total + tax + tip = $30
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