Contact Information
6948 Sebastopol Ave,
Sebastopol, CA
707-827-3609
About the Restaurant
Ramen Gaijin is a unique ramen shop and izakaya located in Sonoma County, committed to honoring traditional techniques combined with the finest local ingredients. They make all of their noodles in-house and offer a seasonal menu consisting of traditional regional ramen styles informed by the offerings of local farmers and ranchers. They also offer an ever-changing selection of robata-yaki and small plate izakaya dishes to complement their craft cocktails, beer, wine, and sake selections. Ramen Gaijin aims to provide a shared community space that brings together people from all walks of life under the umbrella of good food, good drink, and a joyous atmosphere. They pride themselves on ensuring that everyone who visits has the best experience possible, from families to farmers, students to seniors.
The Ambiance
Ramen Gaijin has a cozy and casual ambiance with a touch of rustic charm. The restaurant’s interior is decorated with Japanese-inspired elements, such as bamboo and wooden accents, paper lanterns, and Japanese-style artwork. The seating arrangements are intimate and communal, with a mix of tables and bar seating, encouraging diners to interact with one another. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, with a bustling open kitchen and friendly staff. The restaurant also features an outdoor patio, which is perfect for enjoying the beautiful Sonoma County weather while sipping on a drink or enjoying a meal. Overall, the ambiance at Ramen Gaijin is designed to create a warm and inviting space where diners can relax, socialize, and enjoy delicious food and drink.
The Staff
The staff at Ramen Gaijin is known for their friendly and welcoming nature, as well as their passion for providing top-notch service. The restaurant is owned and operated by a team of experienced restaurateurs who have a deep appreciation for Japanese cuisine and culture. The kitchen is run by skilled chefs who are committed to using the freshest and highest quality ingredients available, and who take great pride in making all of their noodles in-house. The servers are knowledgeable about the menu and are happy to offer recommendations and answer any questions that diners may have. The staff as a whole works together to create a warm and hospitable atmosphere that makes guests feel at home. Whether you’re a regular or a first-time visitor, the staff at Ramen Gaijin is dedicated to providing a memorable dining experience.
The Food
Kurobuta Cocktail
Kurobuta is a unique cocktail drink offered at Ramen Gaijin that features high-quality ingredients and a carefully crafted flavor profile. The drink is made with WhistlePig PiggyBack Rye, which is a smooth and spicy rye whiskey known for its bold and complex flavor. Averna, a popular Italian liqueur made from herbs and citrus, adds a subtle sweetness and a hint of bitterness to the mix. Cynar, another Italian liqueur made from artichokes and herbs, contributes a slightly earthy and herbal flavor. Carpano Antica, a sweet vermouth with a rich and complex taste, provides a smooth and balanced backdrop for the other ingredients. Bitters and a zest of lemon are added to give the drink a refreshing finish. When combined, these ingredients create a bold and flavorful cocktail with a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and bitter notes. The name Kurobuta is a reference to the high-quality Berkshire pork, also known as Kurobuta pork, which is famous for its rich flavor and marbled texture, much like this delicious and complex cocktail.
Ahi Poke
Ahi poke is a popular Hawaiian dish that has become a staple at many Japanese and fusion restaurants around the world, including Ramen Gaijin. It typically consists of sushi-grade ahi tuna that has been cubed and marinated in a savory sauce. At Ramen Gaijin, the ahi poke is prepared with the highest quality tuna that is carefully selected for its freshness and flavor. The chili vinaigrette adds a spicy kick to the dish, while the dashi gel provides a subtle umami flavor and texture. The avocado puree contributes a creamy and rich element that balances the heat from the chili vinaigrette. Puffed brown rice and sesame seeds add a crunchy texture to the dish, while the ogo seaweed and mustard frill provide a refreshing and slightly tangy flavor. Finally, crispy strong arm nori is used as a garnish to add a salty and crispy element to the dish. Overall, the ahi poke at Ramen Gaijin is a delicious and well-balanced dish that showcases the freshness and quality of the ingredients used.
Spicy Tantanmen
Spicy tantanmen is a popular ramen dish at Ramen Gaijin, which is known for its rich and bold flavor. The dish is made with Sapporo noodles, which are thick and chewy, and are cooked to perfection. The broth is made from a blend of savory and spicy ingredients, including ground pork, charred cabbage, woodear mushrooms, and a variety of spices. The pork belly chashu adds a rich and savory flavor, while the six-minute egg provides a creamy and delicious element. The dish is finished with a combination of mustards, sesame seeds, and scallions, which add a tangy and nutty flavor to the broth. The result is a well-balanced dish that is both spicy and savory, with a perfect combination of flavors and textures. The spicy tantanmen at Ramen Gaijin is a must-try for anyone who loves bold and flavorful ramen dishes.
Sesame Ice Cream
Ramen Gaijin offers homemade sesame ice cream as one of their dessert options. This ice cream is made in-house, using fresh and high-quality ingredients. Sesame seeds are ground and roasted to release their nutty and toasty flavor, which is then incorporated into the ice cream base. The resulting ice cream has a creamy and rich texture, with a unique nutty flavor that is both sweet and savory. The ice cream is garnished with sesame seeds or sesame brittle, which add a crunchy and satisfying texture to the dish. Homemade sesame ice cream is a delicious and unique dessert option that is perfect for those who want to try something different from the usual ice cream flavors. The dish is a perfect way to end a meal at Ramen Gaijin, leaving diners feeling satisfied and impressed with the quality of the homemade dessert.
Final Thought
Ramen Gaijin is a fantastic restaurant that offers a unique and authentic take on Japanese cuisine, with a focus on using fresh and high-quality local ingredients. From their homemade noodles and flavorful broths to their delicious small plates and craft cocktails, every dish is thoughtfully prepared and executed with precision. The warm and welcoming ambiance, combined with the friendly and knowledgeable staff, creates a dining experience that is truly exceptional. Whether you’re a fan of traditional ramen dishes or you’re looking to try something new, Ramen Gaijin is a must-visit destination for foodies and casual diners alike.
