Vianey D.
Yelp
A delightful find in Central Phoenix
During a recent visit to Central Phoenix, I stumbled upon Clever Koi, a ramen restaurant that boasts strong reviews on Yelp. Intrigued, I decided to give it a try and overall, it did not disappoint.
We started our meal with the calamari fries, which were an absolute delight. The crispy calamari paired beautifully with the yuzu kosho dressing, offering a perfect balance of citrusy heat, while the bits of parsley added a fresh touch to the dish. Equally impressive were the pork belly fries, where the rich, savory pork belly bits were complemented perfectly by the sweet and tangy hoisin sauce, making for a satisfying appetizer duo.
The restaurant's ambience is a highlight, featuring dim lighting, flickering candles, and a relaxed music selection that creates an inviting atmosphere ideal for an intimate dinner or a casual night out with friends over tasty cocktails. Speaking of drinks, I tried the Mai Tai and a berry soda cocktail, both of which were enjoyable. As someone who appreciates fruity cocktails, I found them refreshing, though I personally favored the Mai Tai for its well-balanced flavors.
For the main course, we opted for the tonkotsu ramen and the fried rice. While both dishes were flavorful, they didn't quite leave a lasting impression. They were enjoyable but didn't stand out compared to the appetizers and drinks.
Service-wise, the staff were friendly and welcoming, though the initial wait to place our order took longer than expected. Despite this minor setback, the overall experience was positive, and I would definitely return to explore more items on their menu.
If you're in the area and looking for a spot with great appetizers, a cozy ambiance, and solid cocktails, Clever Koi is worth a visit.