NORI Restaurante Japonês — Restaurant in Lisbon

How lucky we are to have found this place. Having arrived hungry to Lisbon past 10:30pm one summer eve, we had low hopes of finding anything good to eat. That was until we stumbled upon the open doors of Nori. Wow. What a wonderful experience beginning to the end. We were warmly greeted and informed the kitchen was still open. Everything on the menu was available to order- music to our ears. We checked out the place on Google and realized we were about to hit the jackpot. One of the reviewers here complimented the edamame: believe the hype - already the simple edamame was the best we've ever had. Hearty, fresh, with just the perfect bite and saltines. We followed with beautiful gyoza, lightly charred to open many layers of taste, then crispy spring rolls and perfect octopus balls. Everything already signalled the outstanding quality. Then came the spicy miso chicken ramen and the beef curry udon. Again, wow. This chef knows what he is doing. The broth on both was just mouthwatering, the fresh noodles were paired with tender meat cuts and crunchy vegetables. The more the hotness of the dishes eased, the more the taste was kicking in. We nearly licked the bowls.

The chef came out of the kitchen shortly and we were thankful to be able to tell him just how much we enjoyed the meal. His humbleness only added to our admiration. Big compliments also to the co-owner/front manager for his smooth service with patience and a big smile. It is clear the two of them have a great bond and no doubt that is one the keys to their success. What a place! If you are a lover of japanese noodles, look no...

Wow, just wow. Isn’t it a treat, to eat wonderful cuisine? The chef has 35 years of experience and you can taste it in the attention to detail, the nuanced flavors, the fine balance on the palate. And bonus points- the server was really kind and friendly, very attentive.

We started with the edamame with salt- none of that mushy, overcooked stuff so commonly served. Oh no, this was bright, plump, meaty. Next, the veg gyoza. Hot right out of the pan, one side lightly crispy fried, umami filling, a luscious dipping sauce. Then the main course, ramen with broth. We had the shoyu and the miso, both vegetarian with seven vegetables. Eggplant, cabbage, leek, broccoli rabe to name a few. You know how you order something and then want to eat your companion’s dish because it’s better? That totally didn’t happen, we really couldn’t decide which one would take first prize.

Dessert was green tea and sesame ice creams with mochi. I’m not even an ice cream fan (call me crazy) but it was so well done. And drinks- an unusual Japanese wine, light but fruity with a rose flavor. I don’t usually like sweet wine but again, the quality and originality was excellent. And hot sake, so light on the tongue.

Ah, to dine well. Will I be going...

As a self-proclaimed ramen aficionado, I have traversed the globe in search of the perfect bowl, and it is with great pleasure that I declare NORI to be an absolute gem among ramen establishments. The broth, the heart and soul of any ramen, is a symphony of umami, carefully simmered for hours to achieve that perfect balance of flavors. It is simply divine—silky, robust, and bursting with depth. The noodles, crafted with precision and care, possess the ideal texture—springy, yet firm enough to provide a satisfying chew. Each mouthful of noodles intertwines with the broth, creating a harmonious dance of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. The attention to detail in every element of the ramen is a testament to the craftsmanship. It is a culinary haven, a treasure trove for ramen enthusiasts seeking an authentic and transcendent experience. If you find yourself in Lisbon, do not miss the opportunity to embark on this gastronomic adventure—it will be an experience you'll...