Ramen Nagi - San Jose

It's fast once you're in, but the line can be quite long. The ramen is usually delicious, but steer clear of the thin noodles.

Super busy even on a weekday, went on a Tuesday evening and there was a line formed. We were told the wait would be 30 minutes, as we were handed a menu and a marker for ordering while waiting in line. Very small inside sitting at community tables it felt very tight inside. The service was ok, I just felt like I was in a fast food joint. The food came out warm not hot, the chicken karage was the first to come out. It wasn't hot like I was expecting it came out quick and it came out warm. It was lightly coated with a sweet soy glaze. The chicken was nice and juicy and the crunchy shell was good. It came with a side salad with I assume is an egg salad. It was good but I probably wouldn't order it again. The second dish happened to be the ramen. The only hot part was the noodles the broth itself came out warm not hot what a disappointment. I ordered the Black King with cabbage, an egg, and a hefty side of green onions. The broth had a lot of flavor, I think level 2 spicy is still pretty mild. My boyfriend got the Red King with cabbage, an egg, extra chasu, extra noodles, and a side of green onions too. This one was also ok, this broth is super rich but again came out warm not hot! I expect ramen to be piping hot. He had to ask for an extra side of chili powder because the level 2 spicy was not very spicy. The gyoza was the last item to come out, these were small and underwhelming. Not much to say came with a sweet, sesame oil, soy sauce side to dip. They are cashless, boo! Overall I'm happy to say I've tried this location, it's located upstairs above bowlero. I don't think I will be back for this experience, but to be fair this is in a mall.

Ramen Nagi is a spot you have to try at least once when you're in the South Bay! It's located in the Westfield valley fair mall by men's Macy's and the icon movie theater. You know it's poppin when there's always a line wrapped around every day. The best times to go to avoid the wait would be early weekday lunch or late weekday dinner. I usually get the original king with all the recommended options. If you like a good kick then I would recommend getting spicy level 4 or more! It doesn't come with the egg so remember to add that if you want it. They also have some appetizers like chicken karaage if you're hungry and the tables have cooked bean sprouts to go with your ramen.

Ramen Nagi is the most authentic Japanese ramen you can get in the bay. They give you little sheets to choose how you like your noodles and broth (i personally like mine firm,spicy rich and xxxtra garlicky) plus the service is always on point. The decor is traditional and it takes me back to Japan every time I dine here. Can't wait to return!!

One of my favorite ramen spot in the Bay! It is worth the wait! You must also try their Chicken Karaage!!!