Ramen Dojo Restaurant Review, San Mateo

Ramen Dojo recently opened in San Mateo at legendary Santa Ramen’s original location, no doubt hoping to capture some of its good karma. In fact it’s owned by the same people. They focus on spicy ramen, specifically Sutamina Ramen (aka Stamina Ramen) that is served in a couple restaurants.

Decor, Vibe – Ramen Dojo upgraded the decor with some dark woods but the layout remains the same with a couple tables and some counter seating. The place was not full, so they haven’t captured very many of their old customers. The place was mostly Asians as expected.

Menu

Ramen Dojo Menu has Three basic soup stocks like Santa Ramen plus the extra spicy flavoring. No vegetarian options.

Full image set

Picks:
All Ramen comes with two pieces of roasted pork, fried whole garlic, Kikurage mushrooms, fresh green chives, Quail Egg, and chicken gravy (cooked ground chicken, chopped shitake mushroom, chopped ginger, dried shrimp, sesame chili oil, and shredded red pepper).

Spicy soy sauce flavored Ramen ($8.95) was extremely spicy even at the mild spicy level. Their pork is thicker than Santa Ramen’s but not quite as flavorful. Broth is fairly orderly but flavorful. Noodles are made with egg here, and are crunchier than Santa’s.

Spicy and bitter pork flavor Ramen ($8.95) has tonkotsu (referred to here as “bitter pork”) and a thick and strongly flavored meaty broth. Otherwise had the similar characteristics as the other Ramen.

OK:
None

Pans:
Potstickers ($2.50) were small, cold, and forgettable.

Ramen Dojo had decent service probably because the place was not very full and servers have time to stare at everybody. We still preferred Santa Ramen or Ramen Santouka to this restaurant although anyone can to spicy Ramen should give this place a try.

$25 Dining Certificate for $5

Ramen Dojo Overall Rating: (Good 2)

Come Back?

Food Rating:	(Good)
Service Rating:	(Good)
Atmosphere Rating:	(Good)
Value Rating:	(Good)

Guide: 0 = poor, 1 = Below/Average, 2 = Good, 2.5 = Very Good, 3 = Excellent , 4 = Extraordinary

Alcohol:	None
Attire:	Casual
Hours:	Wed - Mon 11:30am - 2pm, 5:30 - 9pm, Closed Tu
Parking:	Street
Reservations:	Yes
Prices:	$8.95