Bosso Ramen Tavern, a Japanese Izakaya, Opens in Harvard Square, Cambridge | Eater Boston

"Tucked in Harvard Square at 24 Holyoke Street, Cambridge, I found Bosso Ramen Tavern to be a full-service izakaya inspired by Japan’s Boso region and the ocean, more of a spot for dates and gatherings than a casual ramen shop. Owner Yasu Sasago recommends beginning by sharing tsumami—on the opening menu that includes ume fried gyoza, squid isobe tempura, edamame shiromiso hummus, and scallop carpaccio—followed by the “blessings of the ocean,” a variety of sushi and sakana such as kikumasamune steamed clams, with a few vegan sushi selections and playful creations like sushi topped with takoyaki balls. For larger plates there are okazu such as a blue cheese pork cutlet, and Sasago says their authentic ramen is the best choice to close: the main lineup uses a tonkotsu pork broth made with chicken bones as a “double soup” to heighten umami, while other bowls deviate from that base—sanmi (sour) ramen includes cherry tomatoes, charshu pork, arugula, cheese, and green shiso oil; mantaiko ramen is served without broth and tossed with cod roe; and negitoro ramen features ground tuna—offering ramen varieties I hadn’t seen before. The menu is built for relaxed, izakaya-style dining with sake and wine (Sasago notes many brewers make sake by the sea that pairs tremendously well with fresh fish). Sasago’s surf-influenced childhood in the Boso region, training at a ramen school, cooking ramen for classmates at Harvard Business School, and volunteering at the acclaimed Yume Wo Katare in Cambridge inform the restaurant’s focus on regional, ocean-inspired cuisine. Bosso celebrated its grand opening on March 26, 2022, and initially planned to be open six days a week (closed Tuesdays) from 5 to 9 p.m." - Rachel Leah Blumenthal