Restaurant Review: Ramen Koika

Submitted by Gastrofork
Special to the Post

The Puri-Puri Ebi is the classic prawn tempura made with panko that is drizzled with tartar sauce, sesame and parsley. The panko breading is crisp and not overdone.

The Ebi Gyoza is filled with one prawn and vegetables. The gyoza had its own individual shrimp. It was inside while still crispy on the outside.

Each ramen bowl features noodles and broth made in house. King’s Seafood Ramen’s spiciness level can be ordered as non-spicy, mild or spicy. The King’s Seafood Ramen has blue crab, clam, green mussel, cabbage, black tree fungus, onion, red pepper, green pepper, Thai chilis, bean sprouts and red pepper powder on top. The broth was great and that the noodles had a nice snap to them. I was surprised how much seafood came in the dish – especially for the price point.

The Kyouka Tsukemen is served with the noodles, bamboo shoots, half seasoned egg and seaweed on the side. The broth has the shredded pork in it. The soy egg had a good consistency gelled but slightly runny – it’s not too salty so it isn’t overpowering. The seaweed and bamboo shoots give a nice crunch and texture. The noodles are thick. It can be served hot or cold. The noodles have the perfect amount of snap to them.

The broth is hearty, slightly oily from the beef and a good amount of spice. The bits of shredded pork are a nice addition. The broth is not too salty and the flavour is quite good. This is probably my favourite tsukemen bowl in Vancouver.

The portion sizes here at Ramen Koika are perfect – but if you’re still hungry, you can always order more.

I would definitely recommend Ramen Koika – they’re a great spot in the city for a delicious bowl of ramen.

Ramen Koika

1479 Robson Street, Vancouver, BC

Gastrofork is a Vancouver based food and travel blog. Gastrofork has been featured in Eat In Eat Out Magazine, is one of the top blogs onurbanspoon and named Top 100 Blogs to Follow in 2013. Read more reviews at gastrofork.ca.