I'm a little surprised that Mharie and I have never been to any of Marutama Ramen's locations. A quick search of our blog reveals that it was our intention to eat at the Robson Street location after a Jazz Festival event (remember the Jazz Festival?) but it was closed and we ended up at YaYa Ramen.
So when we became aware that a new location had opened in Coquitlam, we decided to right this terrible wrong! Located right on Pinetree Way just north of Coquitlam Centre, parking is at a bit of a premium here and we ended up walking a few blocks (which is really not a big problem as our legs are not broken). We got a table right away just before noon on Sunday. I have seen pictures of line ups out the door though so be prepared.
We ordered a couple of starters including the pan-fried Gyoza. Each location of MR seems to have different sides available and the Gyoza are relatively rare. These were more than a little tasty!
The Karaage Chicken was also very good and a little different from what we are used to. Being deboned and rolled into a little dark meat ball offers an advantage and a disadvantage. The advantage is that it is harder to overcook the meat as the thickness is greater. The disadvantage is that there is less surface area in total to be breaded and crispy. These were good but we still have mixed feelings.
I hadn't realized that all the ramen served at MR has chicken stock as a base. I would have sworn that pork broth was absolutely necessary but I have been convinced otherwise! The chicken broth is rich and flavourful! We ordered one Tamago Ramen which featured seaweed and green onion in addition to the usual chashu and soft boiled egg. This was a wonderful bowl of ramen!
We also ordered a bowl of Aka Ramen. This one came with lots of tasty seaweed as well as ground nuts and chilli. It wasn't spicy at but just slightly warming. The nuts did not make much of a flavour impact but maybe there was some richness and texture noticeable. This was a very good bowl as well. Both came with perfectly cooked thin noodles. You can order a second helping of noodles.
It was a little tempting to go crazy with the garlic chips on the side. Be aware that you will be tasting it for hours!
This place, being brand new, is a sleek and beautiful room. We were comfortable with the distancing and they were very careful with proof of vaccine and we appreciate that. The staff were friendly and efficient. Now we know why Marutama Ramen is rated so highly!
Food 4 out of 5
Comfort 4 out of 5
Service 4 1/2 out of 5
Value 4 out of 5
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