Yatagarasu

I’m a little embarrassed to admit this, but all my life the only ramen I knew was the dime-a-pack instant ramen that got me through college. I was aware that ramen could be grownup food, I just hadn’t had it. But on a recent cold day downtown, I was talked into lunch at Yatagarasu. It’s a little different from the last time I was in that space, back when it was the indie bookstore Robots and Rogues. And while the inviting smell of books is gone, the food’s scent is welcoming.

I ordered the seaweed salad to start. It was seaweedy, which I use here as a compliment. I don’t recall being particularly moved one way or another, but it was certainly good enough to order again. The portion was larger than I expected, which was great for how hungry I was.

For my main dish, I ordered the miso spicy ramen. The spice cleared out my sinuses, but I was honestly hoping the broth would be a little spicier than it was. Perhaps the next time I go back, I’ll see if they can dial it up a bit. But the bowl was large, with plenty of noodles. The pork was particularly delicious. My chopstick skills made eating the egg slightly challenging, but it worked out well enough.

On a cold and snowy day, a big bowl of ramen can be very comforting. No more will I turn to instant ramen, though. The next time I get a craving, I’m going back to Yatagarasu.

Kid friendly: No kids menu

Location: 533 Main Street, Lafayette (map it)

Phone: (765) 607-2979