Ridiculous Ramen at Nagoya House

Noodles Make Everything Better

Ramen is everywhere. It’s not just a trend. Ramen is everywhere because people all over the world love to eat noodles every single day. Boil those noodles in gorgeously spiced broth, immerse a handful of herbs and sprouts, and serve up with a boiled egg and you have ultimate comfort food that will soothe and nourish anyone in the family. If you’ve fallen in love with ramen (the real stuff…not the 25-cent-a-packet kind) chances are, you’ve tried one or two of the local ramen places around town. Bowls of the good stuff are served up all over the city these days, featuring unique flavors and a variety of accompanying menu items from fresh dumplings to hibachi entrees. If you find yourself craving ramen throughout these early spring days, you’ve certainly got options! 

In just a few short months, Nagoya House in the Cooper-Young district has become a natural choice for grabbing ramen in a cozy atmosphere in midtown. Set inside a small strip of retail on Young Avenue, just east of the Cooper-Young crosswalk, the small ramen eatery welcomes you into a warm, inviting environment featuring a few tables near the store window and a row of intimate booths. The ambiance is perfect for cozying up to a steaming bowl of ramen with a friend…soft jazz and the friendly greeting from the staff will make you feel right at home as you nestle in and peruse the menu. 

What’s to Eat

You have your pick of options when it comes to the menu at Nagoya House. The Tonkotsu bowl is wildly popular, as is the customizable option “Nagoya Memories”. The portions are large and the broth is aromatic, the proteins well seasoned, and the noodles just right. A side of perfectly salted edamame or their incredibly satisfying fried rice is an option to round out your meal. Donburi (translated as “big bowl”) is also a featured item at the restaurant. These large rice bowls are highly seasoned and served with toppings of fish, meat or vegetables and offer a great option for those that may not find themselves in a “soup mood”. But the menu’s hibachi items are also delicious alternatives. The hibachi plates come out to you freshly cooked from the kitchen and beautifully flavored. 

Nagoya House’s traditional Japanese menu even features takoyaki (octopus in fried dough) and pork belly steam buns. There is truly a flavor for whatever you’re craving!

The family-owned restaurant is a welcome addition to the neighborhood and you’ll likely feel like you’ve stumbled upon a gem. Our only caution is to give yourself a little time…the ramen is served up fresh to order and you’ll be waiting for a bit. Sounds like a good reason to take someone you’re just getting to know…or already love. 

There’s really nothing quite as cozy as an excellent bowl of ramen in a sweet little nook in Cooper-Young.

Images via Nogya House Instagram