Tak L.
Yelp
Tucked away in the heart of West Wash Park, Uncle is a ramen lover's haven; frankly, it's a place that I've become quite enchanted with. The moment you step inside, you're greeted by a sleek, modern interior, all clean lines and warm wood accents. My husband and I are particularly fond of the counter overlooking the kitchen, where the well-orchestrated ballet of cooks craft each bowl with precision and finesse. It's a chef's theater, and the spectacle is mesmerizing.
We've developed a rapport with Angela, who embodies everything a stellar server should be: attentive, warm, and uncannily good at remembering faces. Her thoughtful service adds a comforting layer to an already cozy experience. It's as though every interaction is wrapped in the same care and attention as the food.
When it comes to drinks, my husband will get a white wine, but I'm drawn to Uncle's gin and tonic on tap. Crafted with Bluecoat gin, lemongrass, Sichuan, and tonic, it's a bright, herbaceous burst of flavor that dances between citrus and spice, leaving you refreshed yet intrigued by its complexity. It's the kind of drink you want to linger over while watching the kitchen crew work their magic.
Now, let's talk food, starting with the eggplant buns. These clouds of joy are a revelation. I'm not one for eggplant, or mayo for that matter, but Uncle has managed to convert me. The eggplant is perfectly cooked--never mushy, with just the right amount of bite. Paired with the soft bao bun, fresh slaw, and a hint of mayo, it's an umami-packed bite that will make even the staunchest of eggplant haters reconsider their stance. My Japanese mother would sing praises to the chef who convinced me to love a vegetable I've resisted for years.
On to the ramen, where Uncle truly shines. The Tokyo Shoyu is my go-to, a bowl of warmth that feels like a comforting hug on a cold fall night. The light chicken shoyu broth is rich yet not overpowering, with layers of umami goodness from the soy sauce. And then there's the pork belly--three thick slices that melt in your mouth, accompanied by tender arugula, scallions, and the pièce de résistance: the ajitama egg, with its perfectly gooey yolk. At $20, it's a generous serving, and worth every penny.
For those craving a bit more spice, the Duck Ramen is a revelation. The shoyu broth, deepened by both pork and chicken, serves as the backdrop for the confit duck, which is tender and flavorful. The togarashi adds just the right amount of heat, while the arugula, corn, and scallions bring a fresh crunch. It's a bold, hearty bowl that leaves you warm and satisfied.
A word to the wise: if you haven't snagged a reservation online, don't despair. Get there right at 5 p.m., and you're likely to score a coveted counter spot. Watching the magic unfold in the kitchen is reason enough to sit there, but with a menu this stellar, it's the best seat in the house.
Uncle is one of those rare gems where the food is both familiar and exciting, where every bite feels like a discovery. It's not just a ramen shop--it's an experience, and one that I find myself craving again and again.
Parking can be a challenge, since it is all on street, but after a big bowl of ramen, you can walk it off