Santouka Ramen!

As you all know, I am always on the hunt for good grub. One of my favorite comfort foods is Ramen. I was delighted to find out from AndHua that Santouka opened recently in the "new" Mitsuwa of San Jose. At first I was perplexed to learn of a "new" Mitsuwa. I knew of one Mitsuwa, but it was definitely not new...

Our Conversation went a little like this...

A: What are you up to?
L: I have training all week and am going to get lunch in San Jose
A: Where are you going to go?
L: I am thinking of going down to get some Banh Mi. I have been dying to try Huong Lan.
A: Sounds NOMS. Have you been to Santouka yet?
L: THERE IS A SANTOUKA HERE!?!
A: Yeah, it is in the new Mitsuwa Market
L: There is a new Mitsuwa?

20 minutes later...

L: I am at Santouka!
A: What happened to getting Banh Mi?
L: I got distracted by Ramen!

I am glad I took my chances and just went to the "old" Mitsuwa. Turns out there is only one Mitsuwa in San Jose. It was recently remodeled and that is why AH was confused.

Santouka!

There was a pretty long line when I got there. I was waiting about 15 minutes, when I realized that I didn't have any cash on me. Thankfully, there was a BofA ATM in the food court. Even though, I lost my spot in line, it was okay because the service moved pretty quickly.

At this point, I was famished, and I am so glad I got the combo deal. I got the miso broth with regular pork. The soup was piping hot (something that is requisite for great ramen). The flavors were delicate and perfectly balanced. The noodles were crisp and hearty. Overall, definitely worth the drive and detour!

Rice with Leeks

Miso Ramen

Man, I want a bowl right now.

Santouka Ramen 4.5/5

Battle Ramen

Since I moved here, I have been on the prowl for THE perfect bowl of Ramen. Some readers might wonder why a foodie may even crave Ramen in the first place. The unfortunate fact is that most people associate the word Ramen with the instant noodles of the same name. Clearly, I haven't been searching for said instant noodles. Rather, I am referring to the Japanese noodle dish that tends to be served in a meat-based broth, and uses toppings such as sliced pork, nori, kamaboko, green onions, and corn. I didn't grow up with Ramen, so to describe it as something that reminds me of home is rather misleading. But one cannot deny the homestyle essence/quality of a good old fashioned bowl of Ramen.

Today, I present you with the first of a series of Ramen Battles that will help you become acquainted with the world of Ramen.

Round 1: Ryowa Ramen House Vs. Kahoo Ramen

First we have the Buttercorn Ramen from Ryowa Ramen House in Mountain View. The Ramen is absolutely delicious! In the Buttercorn Ramen, one can find pork, two types of mushrooms, green onions, corn, and seaweed. Also, there is literally a tablespoon of butter that is melting in the broth. I especially like the Buttercorn Ramen because the addition of corn gives the dish a crisp texture and amazing color. Doesn't it look extra appetizing? They say that you eat first with your eyes and nose. Arg. I am getting hungry!

What makes Ryowa great is that it also has a dish called Special Fried Chicken. Everyone knows how I feel about fried chicken! The chicken pieces are tender and crisp and come with japanese mayo and a vinaigrette of some sort. YuMMM

Next we have the Spicy Miso Ramen with Vegetables from Kahoo Ramen. I am a bit partial to the broth here. It is a little thicker than the one at Ryowa and perfectly seasoned with a kick of spicyness. Normally I am not a fan of cabbage, but for some reason, I really enjoy the cabbage in this bowl of Ramen.

After multiple taste tests, Ryowa Wins! Although, this wasn't really a fair battle. The Fried Chicken is like a secret weapon.

Ryowa Ramen - 4.5/5
Kahoo Ramen - 4/5