I now understand why Hsin-tien never wanted to go to Ajisen. LOL It is not that special, at least in terms of a ramenya. As a noodle place, it is good. The broth is decent, but not deep. The noodles were ok. I had the spare ribs ramen, which were recommended, and I must admit to being impressed w/ the meat.
Ramen Dojo is by the same people who do Santa Ramen, so expectations were high. It opened at the old location of Santa Ramen and specialized in Stamina Ramen: spicy high-calorie ramen. There were 3 base broths: shoyuu (soy sauce), tonkotsu (pork bone), and miso. Three levels of spiciness: mild, regular, and spicy. The toppings were also a little different. There was a quail egg, roast pork, kimagure, fried garlic, shredded red pepper, sliced green onion, and chicken gravy. (I may have missed a few items.) Again, I was not impressed w/ the chasu, but I like it better than Santa. I've tried the tonkotsu and the miso at regular spicy, and I prefer the tonkotsu. The spiciness is not bad for the mouth, but could affect your digestive system. >_> I would try mild next time. Hsin-tien had the mild and it seemed like the spiciness is more controlled and generated by black pepper, not hot chili oil. Hsin-tien prefers Santa and I have to agree. Although Ramen Dojo is a good change of pace.
Pictures are from Ramen Dojo.
Updated list: (I've also decided to promote Santouka above Haru)
Top
Santa (Tonkotsu)
Orenchi (Tonkotsu, Shio)
Middle
Maruichi (Tonkotsu variation)
Ramen Dojo (Tonkotsu)
Santouka (Shio)
Haru (Various)
Ryowa (Butter Corn)
Himawari (Tantan, Shio)
Bottom
Kahoo (Shio)
Ajisen
Question mark?
Kumako in Japan town San Jose. Heard it wasn't good.
Ogisan in Campbell. New
