"The alternative to a triple-digit bill for a night of plates so tiny your stomach can barely register them? Filling up on ramen at Taishoken in the Mission. This spot is a sleeker alternative to more casual ramen spots across town, with its swanky overhead lights and bottles of sake gleaming on high-up shelves. They specialize in tsukemen, or dipping ramen, with rich broth that clings to the noodles beautifully. The spicy pork miso option with thinner noodles is also worth your attention. If you want to round things out with a drink or two, this spot serves shochu cocktails and plum wine." - julia chen 1