Sobo Ramen--Oakland (Japanese Ramen)

I finally found a ramen place that has really savory and delicious broth that isn't too salty. Located in downtown Oakland at 988 Franklin Street #186, this spot is right next to Chinatown. With friendly staff and options for everyone, even vegans, this has become a regular spot for me when I need some well-prepared ramen. Here are some of the things I've enjoyed.

http://soboramen.com/


Yogurt Soju. Available in half carafe or whole carafe sizes, this is a very refreshing drink in various flavors. This one was mango. Also just to clarify, this isn't made from the thick, white, scoopable yogurt that we know of. The "yogurt" is more like a sweet juice with little gelatin-like bits floating around. Very tasty just by itself or, as in this case, mixed with soju.

Agedashi Tofu. This is probably the crispiest Agedashi tofu I've had. I've always wondered how they batter and fry soft tofu without breaking it. It comes out molten-lava hot and is served with a savory and sweet tempura sauce and garnished with green onions and bonito shavings. The crispy exterior softens up after soaking in the sauce for a few minutes.

Karaage. Nuggets of chicken that were marinated in soy sauce, garlic, ginger and sake, then fried till very crispy and served with a honey-mustard type of sauce. Very popable and highly addictive.

 

Tonkotsu Ramen with Tonkatsu (Picture 1). Perfectly al dente ramen noodles in a savory pork broth topped with soft boiled egg, corn, black fungus, green onion and sesame seeds. If this wasn't enough food, on the side included a deep-fried pork cutlet.

Tonkotsu Ramen with Tonkatsu (Picture 2). The pork cutlet. Super crispy on the outside and moist and tender on the inside.

Tonkotsu Ramen with Mayu. Their already delicious pork broth is amplified in this dish with a drizzle of mayu (black garlic oil), which gives the broth a very fragrant and deeper flavor. The noodles are topped with chashu (pork), soft-boiled egg, bean sprout, green onion and sesame seeds.

Lobster Ramen. A fresh and tender piece of lobster served in a bowl of their savory seafood broth with some fresh kale, their signature half egg and green onions.

A perfect place to go on a rainy, cold winter's day. I always leave comforted and satisfied.