Kurotaka Ramen — Restaurant in Fresno

We came to try out the new ramen spot that took over this location, I was kind of hesitant to try due to the prior tenant was my favorite but the food here knocked my socks off.

For starters, let me start with the ambiance. The new owner cleared out the space and added more tables so there is no wait for dine in. Second the interior space design is minimalistic but clean, no handheld menus the dishes along with photo and description is on giant plaques on the wall. Less contamination and germ issues which is great post covid. When we came in on a Saturday we were greeted by the most adorable little boy who explained the menu and helped with our order. The owner was very attentive with the customers and I can tell they work hard to keep this place clean.

Second, the food. My husband and I both ordered their Kurotaka "set meal" ramen and half fried rice. It was the best $20 I have spent in a long time. The broth really stood out to me, it was super flavorful. Though it doesn't have the usual (seaweed, fish cakes, etc) I was quite happy with it. No the egg is not softboiled but I can overlook that because the chashu was so damn good! For those who like the spicy stuff be prepared this stuff is HOT but you can ask for the chili oil on the side. The fried rice is also fire!!!! They also offer the rice on the menu by itself; it is so good you can eat it by itself. The only thing that could make the rice better is maybe adding some shrimp or that addictive chashu on top.

We will definitely be coming back to try the fried chicken (karrage) I may even try it with their curry. If you have any doubts about trying out this place- don't. Just eat here.

**Update 11-11-23 Came in and ordered the gyoza. It was amazing! Hot and crispy dumpling and juicy on the inside. I also tried their new Tonkotsu Ramen. The broth is one of the richest and most flavorful Tonkotsu Ramen that I have ever had. This Ramen owner is a master at his craft and he is humble to boot....

My friends, mark my words: this is the best spot in Fresno for ramen, chicken karaage, and Japanese curry. If you’re looking for authentic Japanese flavors, this place delivers.

🍜 Spicy Tonkotsu Ramen (📸 1st picture): I loaded this up with extra meat, extra egg, and extra noodles—and it was worth every bite. The tonkotsu broth (pork bone) is legit, not some powdered mix. You can tell it’s been simmered for hours with actual bones. Rich, flavorful, and slightly fatty in the best way. If you’re into bold, creamy broths, this one will have you slurping all the way to the bottom of the bowl. Note: If you prefer light or low-fat soups, this might feel too oily—but if you love real tonkotsu, you’re in for a treat.

🥟 On the side: crispy potstickers, nothing fancy, but they hit the spot with the ramen.

🍛 Japanese Curry with Chicken Karaage (📸 2nd picture): The curry is rich, slightly sweet, and deeply savory—exactly like what you’d get in Japan. The karaage (Japanese fried chicken) is juicy inside, crispy outside, and pairs perfectly with the curry and rice. Comfort food at its finest.

🔥 This place stands out not just in Fresno, but in all the ramen spots I’ve tried across the U.S. It’s that close to real Japanese local food.

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Ratings (0–10): • Tastiness: 9.5 • Price Appropriateness: 9(a good bowl of ramen under 20? Sign me in!) • Portion Size: 8.5 • Overall...

If you’re seeking an authentic ramen experience in Fresno’s burgeoning food scene, look no further than Kurotaka Ramen! Nestled in the heart of the city, this unassuming gem delivers on all fronts. From the first slurp to the last, Kurotaka’s ramen bowls boast rich, complex flavors that transport your taste buds straight to the ramen food scenes of L.A. and the Bay Area. Whether you’re a ramen aficionado or just being introduced to the dish, you’ll appreciate the complex flavors of the broth, tender meat and not half but an ENTIRE soft boiled egg 🥚 . And don’t let the unpretentious atmosphere fool you—here, the focus is solely on serving up soul-satisfying bowls of ramen 🍜 (their mission statement is on their window.) A nice touch they live up to.

In a city where the dining scene is rapidly expanding with choices (both good and bad), it’s crucial to rally behind those restaurants that truly elevate Fresno’s food scene and steering clear of those cashing in on the underserved hungry masses.

Kurotaka stands out as a must-visit destination for any food lover craving a taste of genuine Japanese cuisine. At the very least their ramen is worth discussing love it or hate it. But I...