Ramen Tatsu-ya - S. Lamar - Austin, TX

Eating at a ramen noodle shop will never get old, especially if it's Ramen Tatsu-ya in Austin. I've been to the original location in North Austin off Research Blvd and knew I would be in for a treat going to it's newer location in South Austin off S. Lamar Blvd. You seriously need to try Ramen Tatsu-ya whether or not you've previously had ramen. Ramen Tatsu-ya will revolutionize how you think about ramen and be your new standard to compare all other ramens. No joke. 

Tonkotsu Sho-yu. Translation, deliciousness in a bowl.

Ramen tatsu-ya offers a lunch and dinner menu. For lunch you can order a chicken broth based ramen or vegan. The Vegan Mazemen is a brothless ramen bowl served with delicious veggies. I happened by for dinner and they have slightly different offerings with your choice of a pork bone broth or veggie broth.

That egg! 

I couldn't turn down the pork bone broth because that's what I had the first time and I had a craving that needed to be satisfied. I did try the Tonkotsu Sho-yu this time, which is the pork done broth mixed with a soy blend. The pork done broth on it's own is simply divine. It has such a great depth of flavor that pairs well with the perfectly cooked noodles and whatever toppings you decide to add. It comes with soy braised pork belly (chashu), my favorite, a marinated soft boiled egg (ajitama), marinated bamboo (menma), green onions and roasted seaweed. I usually opt for a second egg. I mean, wouldn't you?! And, no, pork on pork action does not result in too much salt. At least not with this bowl of happiness. Pork heaven all around that was was well balanced in flavor.

Other toppings include flash fried brussels sprouts, which I've had before. It adds a nice crunchiness. I want to try the Naruto Maki next time, which is the swirled fish cakes. I've had it before in other Japanese soups and I can only imagine it's just as delicious here.

You must put Ramen Tatsu-ya on your Austin bucket list. And go back over and over again. I have another visit planned and you know where I'll be. Hope to you see you there!