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KIO Ramen Izakaya
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
KIO Ramen Izakaya
8.1
Compact Balboa counter serving satisfying bowls and quick izakaya bites from lunch through afternoon. Broths are balanced, noodles have bite, and ticket times stay short.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tonkotsu ramen, Spicy miso ramen, Karaage
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Fast, flavorful ramen with honest pricing and smooth flow.
Who should go: Solo or duo slurpers on a clock
When to visit: 12:00–12:30 to beat the peak
What to order: Tonkotsu, spicy miso, karaage
Insider tip: Ask for extra noodle firmness if you like a chewier bite.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Balboa is generally available before noon; it tightens after 12:30pm. No dedicated lot or valet service.
Dress code: Casual; office attire or jeans are perfectly fine. Most guests come straight from nearby workplaces.
Noise level: Moderate – lunchtime chatter and open kitchen sounds, but you can hold a conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes at peak; turnover is fast due to limited seating.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait before 12:15; short 5–10 minute line during prime lunch rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – miso ramen and a few small plates (agedashi tofu, veggie gyoza) available.
Vegan options: Limited – can customize miso ramen without egg or pork, but broth base still contains some animal stock.
Gluten-free options: Limited – no dedicated gluten-free noodles or prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a first date—it’s casual, counter-service, and quick-turn. Better suited for a comfortable, low-pressure meet-up or casual catch-up.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes. Walk-ins only; seats move quickly, especially at lunch. Solo diners usually find a spot immediately at the counter.
Is it kid-friendly? Mostly for older kids who can handle ramen bowls—no dedicated kids’ menu or high chairs. Space is tight for strollers.
Best For
Better for: Quick, solo-friendly ramen with fast service and consistent flavor in the Richmond lunch scene.
Skip if: You’re looking for lingering meals, large groups, or a fully plant-based ramen experience.
KIO Ramen Izakaya
8.1
Neighborhood ramen shop known for rich bone broths and signature bowls like oxtail and black-garlic. It’s a steady Outer Richmond standby with quick service and comforting portions.
Must-Try Dishes:
Oxtail Stew Ramen, Black Garlic Ramen, Kio Spicy Ramen
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 6.3
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: House broths with distinctive options like oxtail and black-garlic.
Who should go: Ramen regulars seeking hearty specialty bowls
When to visit: Mid-afternoon or early dinner to avoid waits
What to order: Oxtail stew ramen; black-garlic ramen; Kio spicy ramen
Insider tip: Grab a patio seat when weather allows for faster turnover.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Balboa and surrounding avenues; relatively easy before 6pm but fills fast after dinner rush.
Dress code: Casual — come as you are; neighborhood vibe makes jeans and hoodies perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate — conversational indoors, quieter on the patio when weather allows.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes during peak hours; faster turnover for counter seats.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, even for small groups.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — includes vegetable ramen and tofu-based appetizers.
Vegan options: Limited — a few options, but broths are typically meat-based.
Gluten-free options: Limited — noodles contain wheat; some rice-based sides available.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you’re aiming for low-key comfort rather than formality; the cozy layout and warm lighting make it a relaxed first-date choice.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — walk-ins are standard; arrive early evenings to avoid short waits during dinner rush.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy ramen; space is compact but staff are accommodating and service is quick.
Best For
Better for: Creative ramen options like oxtail and black-garlic broth set it apart from more generic neighborhood shops.
Skip if: You’re seeking a vegan or fully gluten-free ramen experience — menu leans meat-forward with traditional noodles.