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Common Sage
Master Critic Review
Common Sage
7.7
Japanese deli-market hybrid serving house-broth ramen, onigiri, and Japanese pantry items. It’s a casual Polk stop for comforting miso and shoyu bowls with veg options and quick counter service.
Must-Try Dishes:
Common Sage Miso Ramen, Shoyu Vegetarian Ramen, Chashu Miso (extra pork)
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.3
What makes it special: Market-meets-cafe with house-made ramen broth and deli comforts.
Who should go: Casual ramen and onigiri seekers
When to visit: Late lunch for fastest turnaround
What to order: Miso ramen; shoyu veg ramen; chashu miso upgrade
Insider tip: Pair your bowl with a fresh omusubi from the case.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Polk is limited; best to use nearby garages on Bush or Pine after 6pm.
Dress code: Casual; jeans and everyday wear are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Low to moderate—easy to chat over a meal without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes at peak hours, faster for counter seats.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; food comes out quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several ramen and onigiri options are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Yes—shoyu broth and vegetable onigiri can be made vegan-friendly.
Gluten-free options: Limited—rice-based sides are gluten-free, but ramen noodles are not.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It’s casual and low-key, better suited for a relaxed lunch date than a romantic dinner.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—this is a counter-service spot and doesn’t take reservations; walk in anytime.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—simple menu, quick service, and approachable flavors make it a good option for families with kids.
Best For
Better for: Faster, more affordable ramen and deli-style Japanese snacks than sit-down competitors in the area.
Skip if: You want an upscale ramen experience with cocktails or specialty chef-driven menus.