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| - I kind of wish I could rate this 2.5 stars because it is better than just 'meh', but I'd hesitate to say it's 'A-OK" too.
I like the location - after all, at the foot of the Shangri-La is swanky, right? I was kind of surprised by the cafeteria style seating, but didn't really mind it because we got a spot facing outside on stools. Although it was very busy, I was still able to hold a conversation comfortably because of where my friend and I were seated.
The prices, at first glance, are fairly reasonable. The waitress pointed out that the mains were huge portions and recommended some appetizers/things to share. We got the shiitake buns to share, while I ordered the Spicy Noodle and she got the Chicken & Egg rice dish.
I actually loved the shiitake buns. They were delicious, but when I realized there were two small buns for almost 10 bucks, it seemed a bit disappointing. I was looking forward to my main noodle dish, hoping for something just as tasty but a better portion.
Disappointed. Again.
The Spicy Noodle is too salty and kind of boring for what you pay. While it is labelled 'spicy', I found it overwhelming - and I eat very spicy Indian food on the regular. My face just felt hot and my tongue felt numb after a while. There is a proper way to do spicy, and then there is just slathering sriracha all over a package of Mr Noodle, which is what this kind of felt like.
My friend's rice dish was a bit better than mine (also, much bettter portion: it actually filled the bowl, while my bowl was about a third filled. Is that normal?) I'm a little sad that I would normally choose a 'safe' rice dish, but instead opted for a noodle dish while out at a noodle bar, only to feel shafted.
Overall, this place is cute looking from afar and has some nice decor. The waitress was nice (although maybe a little misleading...) and maybe there are better things on the menu. In my experience, if you want ramen, or a good bowl of noodles, hit up any other noodle joint like Ajisen Ramen where you can save your money and leave happy and full.
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