Got the black garlic ramen and the cold sesame noodles. My wife and I have been to Japan twice. She is Taiwanese. We also lived in Asia for 10 years. I understand that tastes vary, but to loose the very essence of each dish is quite the feat.
In mine, the chicken was chopped in large chunks, was over cooked, and tasted like it had been sitting in the fridge for an hour. The sauce bore very little resemblance to any sesame noodle I have ever had. No peanut butter added, which is sort of an essential in 麻醬麵. Also just because you put a ton of sesame seeds in something doesn’t make it sesame sauce. It just tasted like the cooks, or the owners have no idea what sesame noodles are supposed to taste like. I’m not trying to be harsh, but honestly, I’ve had way better right here in the ol’ US of A. It’s a staple dish too, so it’s just unacceptable if you are a noodle restaurant and can’t do sesame cold noodles properly.
Not only that, but I don’t understand why the noodles must be the low quality ones found in dried packaging that college kids eat. This is only one type of stale ramen and very much not the rule for how noodles are done basically anywhere in Asia, especially Japan. They should be fresh or at least a better brand of dry noodle.
For my wife’s, the soup had no taste of pork belly, the essential ingredient in any ramen broth. It is what gives the broth its rich flavor. I don’t know how you can make ramen and leave this out. It is true that there are seafood and chicken stock ramen soups as well, but these are the more adventurous kind and must be specifically selected. In no case would someone select black garlic and then add no base whatsoever. I am sort of astounded. Maybe they added base and I just didn’t taste it.
I complained about my noodles and they offered to switch to a different dish. But my wife and I both had had enough and just left. They should have offered a refund for how bad the food was. I’ve laid my case out. I’m sure they don’t agree and people seem to be happy eating this stuff which vaguely resembles ramen. In the end I just feel sad that Americans don’t...
Read moreI recently had the pleasure of dining at Sum Ramen in Millburn, NJ, and I must say it was an extraordinary experience! From the moment I stepped inside, the excellent service and attention to detail were apparent.
First and foremost, I was delighted to find an extensive selection of vegetarian options on their menu. As a vegetarian, it can sometimes be a challenge to find a variety of dishes that truly satisfy, but Sum Ramen surpassed my expectations. Their curry ramen was an absolute delight, bursting with flavors that left me craving more. The richness of the curry combined with the perfectly cooked noodles created a harmonious blend of savory goodness. I also had the opportunity to try the vegetarian tofu bao, and it was simply amazing! The soft and fluffy steamed buns enveloping the flavorful tofu filling made for a delightful combination.
Beyond the delectable food, the interior of Sum Ramen added to the overall experience. The cute and well-thought-out showcases throughout the restaurant created a fun and inviting ambiance. It's evident that the owners have put great effort into creating an aesthetically pleasing space that enhances the dining experience.
Lastly, I must commend the staff for their outstanding service. The moment I entered, I was warmly greeted and promptly seated. The waitstaff was attentive and knowledgeable, providing helpful suggestions and answering all of my questions with a smile. The overall atmosphere was friendly and inviting, making me feel welcome and comfortable throughout my meal.
Sum Ramen in Millburn, NJ, is truly a gem for vegetarians and ramen enthusiasts alike. With their delicious vegetarian options, including the mouthwatering curry ramen and tofu bao, as well as their charming interior, this place is a must-visit. The impeccable service adds the perfect finishing touch to an already fantastic dining experience. I highly recommend Sum Ramen and can't wait to return for another...
Read moreI have been to several ramen shops in NJ. This one is my favorite so far. Simple menu choices and a friendly staff and cozy atmosphere. The portion is perfect for a hungry, ramen loving human like my buddy and myself. On this trip we ordered Shrimp Bao, Curry Chicken Korokke. So amazing. The shrimp was perfectly crunchy, the sauce was a sweet and savory compliment to the shrimp and soft steamed bun which was garnished with thin sliced cabbage and a slice of cucumber. I prefer the cabbage to lettuce because it adds an extra crunch without too much water. The chicken curry puff was a pumpkin puree with chicken mixed in. Simple, delicious. Go out of your comfort zone and try this. She chose the Black Garlic ramen, because she is into black garlic these days. I have tried that and the Sum ramen, so I went for the spicy Tan Tan. Mind blown. This is exactly the flavor I wanted in my mouth on this chilly day. The black garlic ramen is super savory, not so heavy or salty that you feel 50 pounds heavier at the end if your meal. You are just, satisfied to say the least. Skinny wavy noodles followed by floating thin slices of heavens tears....i mean fried garlic make this something to dream about. The spicy tan tan though....This ramen option never seems to be my first or second choice, but I was having a 'step outside the box' kinda lunch. I am so glad I did. So creamy, in a meat way, not a milk way. Once again, not knock your socks off salty, but the porky flavor was spot on and the accompaniments of bamboo shoots, soft ones, not those terrible hard planks, corn and bean sprouts were spot on. Sooo gooood I need to try every item...
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