When I think of Japanese food, I'm much more keen on the cooked foods like Ramen instead of the sushi... Sure, I like sushi (and my kids LOVE it...), but more as a side rather than a complete meal. And in the winter, NOTHING beats a good ramen noodle soup!
So, I've been pretty keen on trying to find good (and not too expensive) ramen places all throughout Australia. And after a particularly grueling and busy month for the two of us, I figured it might be nice to have a little couple's lunch as a little treat for ourselves!
And I've been meaning to try out this Ramen O place for quite some time!
The Space
The little Ramen place is upstairs in the old interchange area... I remember coming here when I was a student, I think that there was a second hand comic and record store on this level... and I would stop by here on the way to my then girlfriend's place (now, my wife!).... there would always be about an hour wait on the weekends as the buses wouldn't connect properly.
Anyway, the inside of Ramen O is pretty neat and tidy... space along the edges for stooled seating, and then small tables all throughout... not too tightly packed, but close enough to give it a pretty cosy feeling.
... heh, and I LOVE the place numbering figurines!
The Menu
There is a huge selection of different types of Ramen and soup... all with slightly "catchy" names... I'm not really that fond of new names for old dishes... but I guess people have to do what markets well. And unsurprisingly, it is a ramen place... so there aren't that many other dishes.
... but looking down the list, there are many things that my kids would like. Probably will have to plan a revisit!
... and thankfully, there is a more detailed description of all the dishes on the back side of the menu!
The Food
I got the traditional "regular" Ramen "Wow".... the one that was recommended for 1st time visitors. And well... Wow, this was one very very decent ramen! Filling with a hearty broth that wasn't overly salty... and decently chewy noodles as well. Plus, the meat cuts were just perfect!
My wife was more adventurous and chose a Citrus/Yuzu based broth... she can find the Ramen soup too heavy at times, and she was keen to try a different alterative. And I have to say, this was a much lighter version... but still full of flavour, just a lighter sort. I think this might be my go-to version after tasting this one!
.... a tea for my wife, and the sand timer is a nice touch as the presentation does count for a lot when you are serving up food in a restaurant!
... but for me, a new soda drink in the form of Calpis. Never had this before... it is a sort of slightly milky but sweet fizzy drink. It probably isn't to everyone's taste, but I quite enjoyed it!
The Experience
Wheeeee... I've found a Ramen keeper! Close to home, and with several shopfronts in Canberra... as well as one that is just across the road from where I teach at the university! I think I will be coming here on a regular basis... I already picked up a loyalty card!
... and at first, I didn't think that this would be a good kid place... but seeing the menu, especially with the kiddie ramen plus gyoza option... plus the Mochi dessert! Well, they are going to love this place!
Opening Times
Monday 11:30 am–1:30 pm, 5:30–7:30 pm
Tuesday 11:30 am–1:30 pm, 5:30–7:30 pm
Wednesday 11:30 am–1:30 pm, 5:30–7:30 pm
Thursday 11:30 am–1:30 pm, 5:30–7:30 pm
Friday 11:30 am–1:30 pm, 5:30–8 pm
Saturday 12–2 pm, 5:30–8 pm
Sunday Closed
Contact Details
Address: 54 Benjamin Way, Belconnen ACT 2617
Website: ramen-o.com.au
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