While I haven't been in Sydney for much of this winter, I was here enough to experience it's 20 odd degree days and chilling 5 degree nights. Regardless, winter has never been my favourite season, but it does mean I get to hide my ramen belly under layers of sweaters and pull overs. If I haven't already said it enough times, there is always burning fire in my belly for ramen. Having two locations and a price point you can't argue with, makes Menya just one of those 'go to' places for me.
Gyoza $7.50
This actually came out last, as putting noodles in soup takes less time than pan frying gyozas. But at least they were pan-fried, rather than deep. I find it difficult to believe you can get gyozas wrong. Not sure if these were hand-made, but they were simple with a balance of meat and veg, and delicious with every bite.
Menya Ramen $9.90
The original signature bowl, with fish cakes, half boiled egg, pork and bamboo shoots. Shan has never been a fan of ramen after countless 2 min packet noodle style ones, but she thoroughly enjoyed this and I think that speaks volumes. Making someone enjoy something they never did before is not an easy task...
Chicken Katsu Ramen $11.90
Similar to the Menya ramen, but without egg and replacing pork with chicken katsu, which is battered chicken deep fried. DDN had this, and happily consumed the entire bowl, including the most of the soup. However, I think he mentioned that he should of got the chicken on the side so it wouldn't go soggy in the broth.
Cha-Shu Lover's Ramen $12.90
Kntr got extra meat in his one, cause boys need their protein. He prefers a clean Shoyu broth, and being half a native Jap and having tried many other places before, he rated the Shoyu broth at Menya.
Black Garlic Ramen $11.30
I'm a sucker for a delicious and hearty tonkotsu broth, and Menya's one def ticks all the right boxes. With the added black garlic and chilli oil, this was the perf dish to end a day long of work. I also prefer the noodles and Menya for their texture, which is a bit more chewy and al-dente. The entire contents of the bowl, including 90% of the soup, was happily demolished.
The quick, efficient, and friendly service reminded me of my Japan travels. The only downside is that you can't reserve a table without ordering food first, however it wasn't too much of a problem as people tend to dine and go very quickly. If anyone needs me, I will be at Menya... or any other ramen place, really.
**NOTE: I visited the Chinatown store three times as well but forgot my camera (yes, each time!). Highly rate the teriyaki beef udon and the chicken karage ramen. Rvr and I both prefer Shoyu over the miso base soup, but tonkotsu for life.
Labels: food