Costco Wholesale

Japanese Restaurant Chain Kitakata Ramen Ban Nai Opens in San Diego | Eater San Diego

"Recently opened off Convoy Street between the Costco Business Center and Target, Kitakata Ramen Ban Nai brings a long, storied Japanese ramen tradition to town: the chain began in Kitakata city in 1958 and now spans more than 60 locations, with a few U.S. outposts in Orange County and the Chicago suburbs. I found the signature Kitakata-style ramen distinctive for its shoyu-based broth made from long-simmered pork bones that is relatively light and clear compared to tonkotsu or miso; the house-made, hand-crumpled noodles have an irregular, curly texture and a softer, silkier chew, and the classic bowl is topped with toro chashu (soy-braised pork belly) with optional add-ons like seasoned egg, boiled Napa cabbage, corn, and tofu. The menu also includes shio (salt) broth spiced with fresh green chilies, spicy miso, and a rich tan tan ramen finished with a slick of spicy garlic oil; there’s a gluten-free noodle option, and the restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner with beer, sake, and starters such as pan-fried gyoza, takoyaki, and karaage." - Candice Woo