7147 Katella Ave.
Stanton, CA 90680
(714) 761-8007
All I have to say is GOMEN-なさい! After all the comments and emails that I received from people saying that my last review was harsh and that Gomen deserves better than a 38 ranking, I've decided to give them another chance. But before I begin, let me just briefly explain my last review. Besides eating ramen at Santouka 30 minutes prior to eating at Gomen, there must have been something really wrong with the soup that day because it did indeed taste pretty bad. Also (as we all know) food reviews are very subjective, so I don't mind at all if someone disagrees with me. But I guess some doooooooods out there have a problem with that. Consistency is a key element for not just ramen-ya's but for all restaurants. That so called "one bad day" could ruin even the best of them. With all that off my chest, I really am sorry for ranking Gomen so low. Based on today's visit, this Wakayama Ramen (#17) deserves to be ranked in the top 10 for sure.
Tonkotsu-Shio ramen: Although the genre of Wakayama Ramen is tonkotsu-shoyu, the tonkotsu-shio here is the one to get. Its creamy, garlic-enhanced soup reminded me of フクチャンスープ and I'll even go out on a limb to say that Gomen has the best tonkotsu ramen in the OC. Yes, I said it. The hakata-thin noodles were perfectly cooked today and I was really impressed. The toppings (chashu, egg, negi, and menma) were also working hard to stand out. As of this minute, I would give Gomen the #1 ranking in the OC and a possible top 5 overall just because of this ramen I had today, but I wouldn't set that in concrete just yet.
Tonkotsu-Shoyu ramen: This is what I had ordered in my last review that left a bad taste in my mouth. Today's version was missing that burnt taste (thankfully) and basically tasted like the ramen above on shoyu steroids. Although it was better than before and actually quite delicious, I would prefer the shio version any day.
Gyoza: I liked the gyoza the last time and it was no different today. Four pieces with the combination is perfect.
Chahan: This chahan was also excellent. No complaints here.
Wooden Chopstick: I'm glad these chopsticks say that they're wooden. Otherwise I may have thought they were metal...hahaha.
hey its me jason again from the kyushu question! really good review, after i just got off the base today I went to try this place out. I really love the tonkatsu shio ramen. the price was really cheap compared to most ramen-yas. This place is definetely best bang for your buck!!! Thanks for the review and I'll be checking out more shops around Seal Beach (OC area)!! You have anymore suggestions for this area!?
ReplyDeleteHey Jason. Welcome back! I'm glad you liked this place. It's definitely one of my faves. One thing though, make sure you say tonkotsu and not tonkatsu. Two very different things. As for more recs in OC area, you'll have to drive a bit south to Costa Mesa. Kohryu and their Koi ramen is probably next on my fave list. Enjoy!
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