Marumen in Fairfax is known mostly as a ramen shop, but they have a few other popular Japanese dishes that don't show up on their online menu, like donburi and fried rice. They also have a nice list of specials.
My first impression is that this is a good address to know. I tried two items: the ultraman tsukemen, which is a miso-based ramen, but the noodles are served separately for dipping. Nice flavor, but I expected the dipping 'sauce' to be thick, so I am not sure this really works as an alternative to ramen. The pork was very good, and so was the marinated egg.
Better, though, was the vegetarian ramen, which was full-flavored and a bit peppery. Excellent stock. Served with breaded and fried shiitake mushrooms which were not easy to eat. They would be easier to eat with a knife and fork.
The noodles in both cases were served at a good firmness. I am definitely encouraged to return.
Went back to Marumen and got to try out four items.
We started off with the chicharones, which are similar to buying a snack bag from the 7-11, except that these were crackling hot and fresh and delicious. They come out in a large bowl that could provide a snack for six. Cost was $3.
We also started off with the pork belly bun, which really hit the spot. Good meatiness, and neither too sweet or too salty. Served on a steamed roll.
The other success was the okonomiyaki, a seafood pancake. Since the Japanese are wont to smear this with mayo and ketchup, we got the sauces on the side. But these sauces were the adult version: the mayo was highly seasoned and there was a moderate bbq sauce, neither of which would have destroyed the taste of the pancake. They also served flakes of dried squid and seaweed which added a nice touch.
We made a mistake in ordering the special short rib ramen. I really missed the pork. Also, the ramen here uses a thin, curly noodle which got a bit overcooked. The noodle for the tsukemen is thicker and firmer, so I prefer that. I would be tempted next time to ask for the tsukemen noodles in the ramen.
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