When Menkoi Ya Ramen first opened, I went at least once a week. Over the past year, there has been a significant decline in the service, food, and cleanliness of this place. I always want too support this small business but the last four times I have come here/ordered out, the service has been awful and my order has had an issue. Yesterday the server flat out lied to me when I asked if what I ordered was what I received. To be clear: I ordered the ONLY thing I ever get there - the spicy chasu pork broth. What I received was vegetable broth with pork in it. When I finally flagged her down (she never checked on us once), I explained to her that I ordered the spicy chasu. Instead of apologizing and making a nearly $18 thing of ramen right, she proceeded to go over to the computer, pull up the order, look at it and then bring me spicy sauce so I could fix HER mistake. I was like, "Wait this is the same broth, you just add this?" She assured me they did.
It still did not taste right.
Oh the reason why? Because she ordered it with vegetable broth which is what it said on my receipt that she crossed out and wrote “spicy” on with pen. SHE WROTE ON IT WITH A PEN. Ha ha ha like after the fact.
When I said “hey I asked for the pork spicy chasu and told you it wasn’t correct,” she just shrugged and said “sorry.”
I wish I was joking
I live three blocks from this restaurant, have my office in the village and always try to support our local businesses but this was the last straw. I am amazed they are still open at...
Read moreReally great for the Claremont area. Compared to other places it's a four, but for this area, it's consistently a 5 out of 5.
We just came back from this place for work lunch. I ordered a Menkoi Chashu ramen which at the time of this review according to their website, consists of: "Pork Broth, Shoyu Base, Toro Chashu(12), Green Onion, Dried Seaweed, Bamboo Shoot" and is currently priced at $11.25.
The ramen came out great, but only had one sheet of seawood. Egg is an extra for $1, which in my opinion is not worth it. But for Claremont, this is decent pricing so I'll run with it. There are twelve slices of chashu pork, so I'm not going to complain.
With that said, though, I expected the meat to be chewier. I am wondering if this place uses a pressure cooker to cook their meat, which might explain a few things. I like using pressure cookers for certain foods, but certain foods like Japanese ramen and Czech svíčková na smetaně just come out differently in a pressure cooker. Notice I didn't say this is a bad or good thing, it's just a matter of preference at this point and not worth docking a star.
And again, because this is Claremont and not Tokyo or Los Angeles, no server is going to come by and ask if you want more ramen noodles. That's not a thing here, but for Claremont, I still think it's...
Read moreMenkoi Ramen House in Claremont, CA, stands out as a gem for ramen enthusiasts, offering an authentic taste of Japan in the heart of the city. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a warm, inviting atmosphere and the delicious aroma of simmering broth, setting the stage for a memorable dining experience. The menu features a variety of ramen options, each with its unique broth that's been carefully simmered to achieve a deep, complex flavor profile. The noodles are consistently cooked to perfection—springy and just the right texture to complement the rich broth. Toppings like succulent chashu pork, green onions, seasoned egg, and bamboo shoots are generous and add layers of flavor and texture to each bowl.
Menkoi Ramen doesn't just stop at ramen; their side dishes, including gyoza and rice bowls, are equally satisfying, making it hard to decide what to order. The staff's friendliness and efficiency contribute to an enjoyable dining experience, always ensuring that guests feel welcomed and well taken care of. Whether you're a ramen aficionado or new to this culinary delight, Menkoi Ramen House offers an authentic taste of Japan that's both comforting and delicious. A visit here promises not just a meal but an experience that will leave you...
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