Katana Ya - San Francisco

E: After a long wait, we finally were able to return to Katana-Ya, a tiny Japanese restaurant near Union Square that serves sushi and ramen. Our first encounter with Katana-Ya was more than a year ago. Although I had entered with no expectations, my perspective on ramen was completely changed after trying their pork broth. Sweet, light and extremely satisfying, it was like no other broth I had ever tasted. Since that first visit more than a year ago, all subsequent ramen broths are compared to this one.

Our visit to San Francisco in October was long overdue. Would Katana-Ya live up to the great expectations built up in our minds for so many months?

Yes! The noodles were the perfect texture -- firm and eggy. The shio soup base was just like I had remembered it -- sweet, light, rich and decadent. Does ramen get any better than this?

R: I've only been here a few times, but it's already become a destination spot. When I know I'm heading to SF, I make sure to include Katana-Ya in my plans. The place is small and cozy. Luckily, we didn't have to wait this time.

I don't have to look at the menu much because I've already targeted my favorite order - miso ramen and curry rice. The curry has great flavor and the rice is cooked to perfection (mainly, not too dry and firm. I like soft rice on the wet side). And the ramen is excellent. I tend to lean toward miso soup base. I'm just a big fan of miso. And this soup is worth sipping 'til the last drop. The noodles are excellent too. Definitely a satisfying meal that lives up to expectations, and a hidden jewel in this city.


Katana-Ya
430 Geary St
San Francisco, CA 94102