I’ve been wanting to check out Umami Noodle Bar since my friend, who lived in Japan for a year, recommended it and told me it was her favourite ramen spot in town. It’s located right beside a Jerusalem Shawarma (one of three locations).
There’s a parking lot behind the building. Good to know.
The inside is compact but there are lots of seats. They make good use of their space.
The counter is adorned with people writing and drawing which adds character.
Service is friendly although my waitress was pretty anxious to take my bowl from me even though I wasn’t done eating. The music is odd; didn’t mesh with the vibe.
The menu is short and sweet just the way I like them. Appetizers, ramen (paitan, chiton and special), sides and desserts.
There was also a special menu that had ramen (gluten free and veggie) and rice (curry don and katsu curry). Small but mighty!
Tonkotsu spicy miso ($12.50)
I added a shoyu tamago ($1.00), which was delightful. The broth was spicy, complex and had depth. Noodles had a good bite and the chashu (I picked pork belly) was tender, fatty goodness. The waitress also added table side some freshly ground sesame seeds, which was a nice touch.
Umami lives up to the hype. Will have to try their chashu bun and chashu don next time around (per my friend’s other recs). Cash or debit only!
Umami Noodle Bar
305 – 16 Avenue
Calgary, AB
(403) 454-8383
CHERRY BOB-OMBS 