JA Ramen Kirksville — Restaurant in Kirksville

TLDR: OK, but not cravable.

MENU: Authentic Japanese fast-food style ramen bowls, bento boxes, some stir-fry-over-rice options, and a variety of fried goodies.

FOOD QUALITY: OK overall. If you get ramen to go, they separate the broth and the noodles, so your toppings don't get soggy before you're ready to eat.

MENU FAVORITES: So far, I have had the dumpling ramen and the half sea ramen. Overall, the toppings are nice, but a little skimpy. Broth is rich and flavorful.

MENU FAILS: At the end of the day, when it comes to ramen, you're eating a bowl of noodles. I like an al dente noodle as much as anyone, but I found the noods to be undercooked - they had a starchy/mealy texture. The half sea ramen comes with two pieces of fried calamari (one of my favorite things in the world) and the breading was very thick and stodgy; not the thin and crispy tempura I was imagining. And let's talk about the dumplings... They must be the cheapest factory made gyoza available on the market, because I couldn't tell you what the filling was; it was just some sort of nondescript mush - even the potstickers at King Buffet are better quality.

FRONT OF HOUSE SERVICE: Quick service style. Friendly staff.

KITCHEN SERVICE: The kitchen is open, and you can watch the cooks work if you want.

COMPETITION: Mizu offers ramen, but I've never had it and can't compare.

ATMOSPHERE: Cheery, fresh and clean, brand-new interior. Music was kinda loud, so you might have a hard time conversing with your companions if you dine in. I believe the art on the wall is AI generated, which I thought was...

I've tried several ramen places but I'm actually partial to this place for ramen. I tried the miso ramen today and it was extremely flavorful. Great thickness and texture to the noodles made it clear it's fresh made. I also tried the chicken and beef dish with 2 sides. The chicken and beef both had amazing flavor with whatever sauce they cook it in. The white rice was pretty meh but that's white rice for you. The spring rolls and gyoza were great. Maybe not the best I've had, but pretty good for a ramen place. The shop is a tad small but I didn't have to wait for a seat. Very cute interior. Definitely coming back. If they ever incorporate a good fried rice, I'll be in an...

Ja Ramen is a hidden gem in Kirksville. The food is fresh, flavorful, and served hot every time. The ramen bowls are packed with rich broth, tender noodles, and toppings that taste carefully prepared. Portions are generous without being overdone, and the menu has enough variety to keep things interesting.

The atmosphere is casual and comfortable, making it a great place to eat with friends or grab a quiet meal. Service is always friendly and quick, and the staff makes you feel welcome from the moment you walk in.

If you’re in Kirksville and craving authentic, well-made ramen, Ja Ramen is the place to go....