Erik S.
Yelp
Based on the other reviews... it is going to seem like my review comes out of a Twilight Zone version of this place, where nothing is sauced, seasoned, cooked right, or even something to remember. But here we are. Myself and three others who had never been to "Don's" on Tate st. decided to check it out based on the strength of the other reviews... and honestly, even with my most optimistic hat on, it was just not good.
It also wasn't just one dish, I tried a little bit of each person's at the table, and their assessment as well as mine was the same... bland, in a cuisine that shouldn't be that way, as if they forgot to season or sauce everything entirely. Looking into the two hot stone bowls at the table, that seemed to be the case. I didn't see any kind of sauce, just protein, rice, vegetables. Granted, those two eaters were not adventurous enough to go with the Bibimbap or anything complex, but on the whole, they'd have been better served and for less cost at most any hibachi take out in town.
The third diner got a beef udon stir-fry, which I thought was a little better, but the meat itself had a strange consistency to it. Almost more like beef jerky than any kind of sliced raw beef. It turned her off, and didn't thrill me either.
Finally, I had the spicy ramen bowl, which i figured to be a specialty of theirs since it's in the name. Mine was the best of the bunch, but still whole heartedly disappointing. The broth was spicy, but the depth of flavor of a rich stock was missing. Instead it was watery, both in appearance and taste. And without a good broth, face it, you're just eating ramen noodles and meat, something you could do at home for less.
It was disappointing, and unfortunate timing, given I don't usually suggest a place for a group unless I go myself first. I took a leap this time, and got a little burned. Definitely took my share of ribbing from the crew the rest of the night for that one. Maybe it was an off-night, maybe someone legitimately forgot to season the dishes before serving, either way... it didn't help us any.