Looking for a unique dining experience? Head to ESO Ramen Workshop on South 4th Street. Designed to offer an authentic Japanese ramen shop experience, it’s owned by Jesse and Lindsay Mariko, the duo behind the beloved Neighborhood Ramen. After closing their original location, they’re preparing to reopen in Tokyo in 2026. In the meantime, they’re perfecting their craft and serving up delicious bowls at ESO Ramen Workshop.
The space is divided into two areas: the front and the back. The front features a six-seat ramen bar, open on Fridays and Saturdays from 12:00 to 2:30 PM for lunch and 6:00 to 8:00 PM for dinner. It’s walk-in only, and arriving early is recommended, as a line often forms outside. They work hard to keep the wait short and the line moving. You order and pay before being seated, and the menu offers just one type of ramen: Gyokai Tonkotsu. The counter is designed to replicate the authentic feel of a Japanese ramen shop, with Chef Jesse preparing each bowl individually.
The base of the Gyokai Tonkotsu is a rich and flavorful fish and pork broth, complemented by house-made noodles, pork loin and belly chashu, and menma negi (seasoned bamboo shoots and green onions). Crafted using a Yamato noodle machine from Japan, the noodles are delicately thin with just the right amount of chew. The pork is thinly sliced and incredibly tender. I highly recommend adding an egg, which truly stands out as one of the best I’ve ever had; it melts perfectly in your mouth. You can also opt to add ajihen, a spicy curried minced pork. Chef Jesse recommends adding it after you’ve eaten most of the noodles and are left with mostly broth, as it magically transforms the broth into a bold, extra-spicy curry. To accompany your bowl, they offer a variety of drink options, including a refreshing Yuzu Lemonade.
The back of the restaurant is known as the workshop. It features eleven seats reserved for Gyokai Tsukemen once a week, typically on Thursday evenings. This style of ramen serves the noodles and broth separately, allowing you to dip the noodles into the broth. Each time, they make subtle adjustments to the dish, constantly evolving it for a new experience. If you’re interested, be sure to visit the front counter to inquire about reservations.
Stop by and show your support as they embark on their journey to open a restaurant in Tokyo. From the delectable ramen to the friendly owners, you’re in for a truly memorable experience at ESO Ramen Workshop.
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