Ani Ramen House — Restaurant in Maplewood

So disappointed. Have never ever left a restaurant before dining. After seated nice friendly greeting, some appetizers came quickly and all very tasty. Main portions ordered ,and then all down hill. Table cleared and anticipated food but waiting about 30 min.....then told by server two orders and then us. As kitchen backed up. Meanwhile several tables that had waited for seats, seated more than 15 minutes after us,had finished appetizers and now served meals. Ok some complimentary small plate......no water refill, server now not asking how it's going but passing by to attend to those with the meals. Asked another passing server to check things out. Had been told about 25 minutes before that kitchen backed up. Ok that happens but why is it at least three or now four parties seated after us have been served? So now a manager comes by to apologize and say a big party order ahead of us and about another 27 minutes. And she had checked our ticket and we were in proper line. Now it's been well over an hour from order placed. No one else getting complimentary small plates but their ordered meals. We're very understanding of new and work out kinks....but be honest about how things are playing out .mix ups do happen in kitchen but acknowledgeding that and not ignoring or misrepresenting what's happening is much more...

I can start with how mouth watering the fresh food is but what makes this location top tier is the quiet clean area it resides in. This place has perfect lighting for taking pictures and the service makes you feel welcomed. The general manager, Harry was very sincere, professional, and accommodating to the date night. All of his recommendations hit the spot and his reassurance that it will matched greatly. We arrived a little before they closed early due to the staff party they were having in their Jersey City location but we were not rushed, and we were able to enjoy a meal. I know I’m only able to get five stars but if I can give more, I definitely will. This was a seven star experience, hands-down. Having a night out with music and drinks can always be a good time but if you’re looking for a laid-back, clean atmosphere with great service and great food, this is where you wanna be for your first date. Thank you Ani Ramren for not only having the best savoring food Maplewood has to offer on this strip but for hiring humble professionals that represent the brand the way it deserves. Harry you are awesome, look forward to eating...

We have gone to Ani almost bi- weekly since it opened and we love the food a lot. The staff at the front door is always super friendly as well. We typically dine at 5 pm on the dot and I have to say the music is always WAY too loud. Our 5 year old son complains about how loud it is and usually we take him out the second he’s done eating. At this hour it’s literally all families with young children eating and I’m not sure why the music has to be blaring loud at this time. I have a few friends who feel the same way as well, whose kids literally can’t eat there bc it’s so loud. Additionally, we’ve had some super attentive servers (one or two), but mostly the servers seem annoyed when we ask for a spoon, or a knife to cut our kid’s chicken, and never come check on us at all. We always have to chase them down for our bill- and generally they are apathetic to us. Overall the food is great but the staff and ambiance needs some work. I want to like you more Ani, but please fix...