After all these years, Ramen Dojo is still solid and one of the best amongst so many newer spots in downtown San Mateo. Our host was warm and attentive. The restaurant is small and very homey.
Overview
Ramen Dojo, located at 805 S B St, San Mateo, CA 94401, offers a delicious, authentic dining experience that takes your taste buds on a journey straight to Japan. For ramen enthusiasts or anyone craving a bowl of hearty comfort food, this spot quickly becomes a favorite. Whether you're a local or just passing through the San Mateo area, this is the place to stop for a satisfying meal.
The ambiance at Ramen Dojo is warm and inviting, with a cozy, minimalist decor that makes it the perfect spot for both casual dining or a small celebration with friends. There's something about the atmosphere that feels like you're stepping into a traditional ramen shop in Tokyo, yet with a friendly, modern vibe that appeals to everyone.
What truly stands out is the ramen menu, which features a variety of mouthwatering bowls that cater to different tastes. Their signature dish, the spicy miso ramen, is a must-try for anyone who loves a bit of heat. The rich, flavorful broth is packed with spices that will leave you wanting more, while the tender noodles and fresh toppings balance out the heat perfectly. It's no wonder this dish is a favorite among regulars and newcomers alike.
If you're not in the mood for something spicy, there are plenty of other options to explore. From the classic tonkotsu ramen, with its creamy and savory pork-based broth, to the refreshing shoyu ramen, there's something for every palate. The attention to detail in crafting the broths, from simmering the bones for hours to achieving the perfect balance of flavors, reflects the expertise behind each dish.
Another highlight of Ramen Dojo is their commitment to quality ingredients. The noodles are made fresh daily, ensuring the perfect texture with each bite. The toppings, whether it's tender chashu pork, crispy nori, or a perfectly cooked soft-boiled egg, are always top-notch, making each bowl a complete, satisfying meal. It's clear that they take pride in their ingredients, and itβs a big reason why this place continues to get rave reviews.
Speaking of reviews, Ramen Dojo has earned quite the reputation for its exceptional service and high-quality dishes. Diners consistently praise the friendly and attentive staff, who make sure your experience is nothing short of excellent. The quick service means youβre never left waiting long, and whether you're dining in or taking out, your food is always served hot and fresh.
If youβre curious about the experience of dining here, just ask anyone who has been. You'll often hear people talk about how the ramen at Ramen Dojo is the best they've ever had in the area. The word-of-mouth buzz surrounding this place is a testament to its reputation and the dedication of the chefs who work tirelessly to perfect their craft.
For those who enjoy a bit of variety, the restaurant also offers rice bowls and appetizers to complement your meal. Whether it's the flavorful gyoza or the crispy tempura, these dishes add another layer of enjoyment to your ramen experience. And don't forget to check out their drink menu, which features a selection of beers, Japanese sodas, and other beverages that pair wonderfully with your meal.
In addition to the outstanding food, Ramen Dojo is conveniently located in the heart of San Mateo, making it an easily accessible spot for anyone in the area. Whether youβre coming from work or exploring the city, itβs a great stop for lunch or dinner. The neighborhood itself adds to the charm, with various shops and attractions nearby, making it a perfect place to grab a bite before continuing your day.
Itβs clear that Ramen Dojo is more than just another ramen joint. The combination of exceptional food, quality ingredients, attentive service, and a welcoming atmosphere makes it stand out in the crowded ramen scene of the Bay Area. If youβre looking for a place that serves up comfort in every bowl, this is the spot to check out.
Good to know
Service options
β Takeaway β Dine-in β DeliveryHighlights
β Fast servicePopular for
β Lunch β Dinner β Solo diningAccessibility
β Wheelchair-accessible entrance β Wheelchair-accessible seatingOfferings
β Alcohol β Beer β Comfort foodDining options
β Lunch β Dinner β Dessert β Table serviceAmenities
β ToiletAtmosphere
β Casual β Cosy β TrendyCrowd
β Tourists β University studentsPlanning
β Accepts reservations β Usually a waitPayments
β Credit cards β Debit cards β NFC mobile payments β Credit cardsParking
β Free of charge street parking β Free parking lotPhotos
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Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 1311 reviews
One of the best ramen places in San Mateo! Flavorful soup, well-textured noodles, and well-cooked toppings. Soup is very similar to Ramen Parlor and Santa Ramen (all owned by the same owner). It used to be a lot more difficult to get a seat, but due to the explosion of dining options in San Mateo, itβs much easier to get a seat in the small, intimate venue. Plenty of street parking or in the lot behind the restaurant. Fast and friendly service.
I'm obsessed with Ramen Dojo! Being just 15 minutes from my place, I finally took the plunge and tried it after months of recommendations. The service is great, and the Ramen is AMAZING! I've tried 4 different plates, and each one is a favorite. I'm hooked now - definitely worth checking out!
Cozy, nice small restaurant which can accommodate up to 36 people. You can easily find parking around the blocks. I went at noon on Monday and the place was 75% full. I was seated quickly at the bar area and my order was taken within 5 minutes. My ramen was served within the next 10 minutes. I got #5 on their new menu, the soft-shelled crab with garlic pork tonkotsu soup. Itβs very flavorful and savory. The soft-shelled crab is to die for and the noodles have that right balance of softness and tenderness. Overall, very pleasant experience.
Took the family for the first time for a Saturday lunch. Got lucky with no line for a party of 5. We ordered pork garlic with pork belly and extra noodles. It was very filling meal. We had no spicy, mild, and med spicy. All delicious. Service was outstanding. Street parking was pretty easy. Canβt wait to come back.
5-Stars for the stellar serviceβthe lady that attended me was very considerate, knowledgeable and energetic and set the mood for the dinner vibes. Also, her suggestion of special ramen was right on point. The pork and egg was cooked to perfection and the broth is rich. I enjoyed my ramen very much so. Good quality of music!
In a competitive space, this is a shining star!! Huge bang for your buck with even bigger flavors. Very straightforward menu that comes out very quickly. Loved our service and the atmosphere of this restaurant. Highly recommend checking out - they advertise a 2018 Michelin on their door and itβs rightfully deserved.