Ramen Izakaya Goku, Hot Broth in the Mission

Ramen Izakaya Goku
3232 16th St., The Mission
Web: facebook.com/RamenGoku
Status: Open

The Crazy Sushi space on 16th has new life in the form of Ramen Izakaya Goku, a small plates and ramen restaurant from owner Eiichi Mochizuki, who also owns popular ramen spot Men Oh. Although it has the backing of the Japanese-owned Shabuway chain, Goku is its own entity, serving up homemade MSG-free broth and creative izakaya-style plates like American kobe beef tataki with yuzu and peppers, chilled tofu with rainbow vegetables, and sweet and spicy chicken wings.

Chefs Shoichi and Jo are serving up five ramen options, from the classic tonkotsu and shoyu options to veggie miso and clam garlic ramen, and you can tailor your order from the extra toppings list. The menu is rounded out by sides like the crab and edamame salad with lotus root chips, and by desserts like the made-to-order taiyake, a fish-shaped cake with chocolate or red bean paste filling. Anchor Steam, Blue Moon, and Sapporo are on tap to wash down your meal, and diners can watch the chefs at work from the eight-person bar. There are tables in both the front and back of the space, where burnt wood flooring lends a warm and cozy ambience. Hours are 6-10 pm daily, except Mondays, when they're closed.

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