Sakuramen Ramen Bar

We showed up with a party of 9. Initially we're told the didn't have seating and then told they would open the upstairs for us. Amazing food, great service. One of our party lived in Japan and said the ramen and appetizers were just like what he got there. If you want amazing food and service... this us the place to go.

Thank you Rob! Fantastic ramen. Place is small so set expectations you may need to wait for a table. Ramen Options were good. Beer selection impressive. Service was very friendly. A few blocks off the bike trail near the zoo. A good food option if you need to warm up.

I decided to come to Sakuramen for the first time because I was in a ramen kind of mood this past Sunday. I typically use the cold weather as an excuse for my ramen adventures. The building's outside wall art walking upon it was pretty cool to me. When I walked in, I must admit, I was not expecting it to be so small. I suppose it makes sense because it's an "underground"/basement restaurant. I reckon no more than 20 people at a time can dine in. It took a while to be seated because the restaurant suddenly got full, and a long line formed behind me. The wait wasn't too long, though. Thankfully, I came in solo. They have patrons sign their name on a waitlist in case it becomes too crowded. The wall art inside is a Samarai, I think, which is pretty awesome. It adds a fiery touch to the ambiance. The Food: I ordered the Tonkotsu Red ramen bowl. I noticed on the menu that the noodles were "thin," but it didn't take away from the overall experience. The bowl itself was quite delightful. I typically rate how well a ramen will be if the chashu is cooked properly and the aromatic oils. The chashu was perfection, nearly melted in my mouth with a perfect lean to fat ratio pairing well with the broth. The oil (black garlic) and the red pepper tare were barely noticeable. I think improvement is needed on that. The mushrooms added a very interesting kick to it to me, mainly because this is my first time with mushrooms in my ramen. My main issue was the seasoned egg. I typically prefer & expect mine soft boiled with the runny yolk. As one can see, it was overcooked to my dismay. It was also quite overpriced (almost all of the "Extra Toppings" are very overpriced, in my opinion). Though the bowl I had was pretty solid (not the best I ever had in DC, but can be better), I am unsure if I will return any time soon. The restaurant is located in Adams Morgan, which is a hike for me even without heavy traffic. The parking was also atrocious in the area so it'll take a minute to find something. If I am in the neighborhood by chance, I will come in for a bite. For those living in the Adams Morgan neighborhood or close by, I do recommend it. Just get there in the times when they aren't busy. I think that will typically be before 7 pm, even on weekends. They offer a decent variety in bowls and also have appetizers, drinks (regular drinks & Japanese + local beers), and a short list of side dishes & mochi ice cream as the dessert.

Ordered from their website to-go; but their server was down tonight unexpectedly. They didn’t miss a beat when I got there and put in my order to the top of the line and I was out the door in only a few minutes! Great customer service and now best of all, I get to eat their fantastic ramen! Thanks again!

Great ramen options, definitely recommend it!