Kao Ramen By Mama — Restaurant in Ventura

Honestly I didn't particularly want to go to Kao. I used to work at a ramen place so my standards are a little unreasonable, and frankly I don't like rice by mama. But I was very pleasantly surprised! The broth is fatty and flavorful (a must for tonkotsu) the vegetables bright a fresh tasting. I got it at a really low spice and just added more. Next time I'll probably get it spicier. but it was delicious from start to finish! the bowl size was a lot smaller than most ramen places, with comparable prices, but I don't mind because they reallly packed that bowl full of quality ingredients. And it was the perfect size for lunch. We actually had to walk around a bit after because we felt so full! Honestly, the chashu could use a little more love. I'm sure it's great for most people, but imo it could use improvement. (do you guys sear it before stewing it? do you let it sit in the liquids overnight?? I have so many annoying questions!) The interior is fun, very chic in aesthetic too. Contrasting colors and sharp lines. I dig it. Service was great, I wasn't left wanting...

This review has been long overdue. I’ve always been highly impressed with the quality of food here, but I’m just blown away today and thought I’d share. I’ve been coming here for a long time and everything has always been top notch! The service and food are both well above par for the area. I have experienced good ramen before and this is excellent! The depth they achieve in their broth is superb and they use sesame oil responsibly without over seasoning the dish.

I will admit that their to-go set up left me wanting sit down service again, but that could obviously not be avoided considering the circumstances of the past year. Today I returned and sat down for the first time in more than a year and it all came back to me. Every memory of a hot, fresh bowl I’ve had here and the kindness of the staff all hit me and I was compelled to share the good news that is Kao Ramen by MaMa.

I hope you’ll try them and I hope you’ll love them! And get the buns!...

Ok so I decided to give this place a second chance just because I was craving Ramen and it was cold out. Well I should have just made top Ramen. I've been to several places for Ramen Kyusha Jangara Ramen-Harajuku in Japan Ramen Bakara Thailand and even Tatsu in Los Angelas. But KOA has got to be the worst I've ever eaten. Are these noodles store bought or what. My ramen literally had no flavor tiny little pieces of chicken the egg tasted so gross and i asked for no ginger well guess what lol yep extra ginger. When I arrived to pickup my order the waitress stopped me and said wait you've got to pay for that. Pay attention tonyour orders i paid online. Cutomer service sucks. Ive definitely decided this is my last trip her. $37.60 for both bowls what a joke. So disgusting. You need to step up your game or quit charging high dollar prices for low budget ramen. So this is how MAMA makes her Ramen lol? Definitely addressing this issue...