Nico B.
Yelp
Countless bowls of slurpable ramen can be found throughout Portland, but Boxer Ramen rates so highly among my favorites, I jump at the chance to visit when I can.
Perhaps luck was on our side, but 6PM on a Thursday seemed like the ideal time to visit. My partner and I found convenient parking, and we didn't have to wait for a table. Our server was friendly and accommodating, offering several suggestions that improved our dining experience.
I ordered the Wakame salad, followed by the Tonkotsu Shio ramen. The delicious salad was so light and fresh, I could happily eat it every day for the rest of my life. But the starred attraction for the evening was the Tonkotsu Shio, a housemade pork broth served with a soft poached egg, pork belly and scallions.
The milky pork broth glistened under a cloud of steam, offering a rich and inviting aroma. I was compelled to dive right in! It wasn't overly fatty or salty, and the creamy soft egg and mayu transported the flavor to to the next level.
The noodles were prepared just to my liking; evenly cooked with a subtle firmness. I want the noodles to absorb the flavor, but not become a starchy mess in the bottom of my bowl. Bravo for getting it just right!
Boxer has a modern vibe, accentuated by minimalist, colorful drawings throughout the space. The open kitchen enhances the dining experience with the lively theatrics of their culinary hustle and bustle. Everything is about the ramen here, down to the sights, sounds and exceptional flavors.