I guess my whole first day of 2016 was influenced by my sugar plum, Stacy Michelson because I was feeling Ramen-esque today. Was I going all the way to Los Angeles for Ramen today? Face New Year’s Day traffic and lines?! Mmm… Nah. So what does hungry me do? Stops on by Zen Street in Riverside, CA. Pretty chill atmosphere, basically a tailor made college zone for those relaxing and wanting some pretty good ramen. I am greeted by a casually dressed guy who shares my sense of humor so naturally I trust his recommendation of food. I had made up my mind on which ramen to choose before I left (honestly), but being one of his favorites confirmed my choice for the day Drunken Ramen w/ Naruto Fish Cake.
Normally, I am a spice girl who always looks to add sriracha to any & everything from eggs to pizza. However, this soupy goodness manages to do something else for my first day of 2016. My first slurp of broth is warm, rich, & basily with sharp notes of ginger. The salty, fatty, tender pork belly melts in your mouth with pleasant “mmm” sounds to create a dive-in face first affect. Earthy crunches of fresh bean sprouts, sweet & sour pops of pickled ginger, peppery scallions, & soft boiled egg compliment the drunken ramen just the way one needs the day after a NYE celebration.
I washed it all down with a cool Green Thai Tea which I was glad to know was sweetened & topped with whipped cream. (I’m a sweetie so I was drawn to it.) I do believe it made the meal overly sweet and I should have went with something unsweetened, but just as flavorful.
HungryDee 