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Konoha Yakitori Ramen and Sushi House
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Konoha Yakitori Ramen and Sushi House
7.8
Konoha is a newer Union Street yakitori and ramen house that also serves a compact sushi menu, giving date nights a cozier, more casual option steps from the Food Coop. Skewers, hearty bowls, and a few playful sushi items make it ideal for couples who want Japanese comfort food with a side of rolls.
Must-Try Dishes:
Konoha Original Ramen, Tuna Pizza, Spicy Salmon Roll
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 7.4
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 6.2
What makes it special: A cozy yakitori-and-ramen shop that adds fun sushi and tuna “pizza” to the mix.
Who should go: Casual dates wanting ramen, skewers, and a few playful sushi bites
When to visit: Early weekend evenings before it fills with groups and families
What to order: Konoha Original Ramen, tuna pizza, spicy salmon roll
Insider tip: Share ramen and skewers, then split the tuna pizza as your sushi-focused centerpiece.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; generally manageable on Union Street before 6:30pm, tighter afterward due to residential demand.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; sweaters and jeans are standard, though couples often lean slightly polished for date night.
Noise level: Moderate — conversation is easy at two-tops, but group tables can lift the room’s volume.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes for small parties; groups may wait longer due to limited larger tables.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; immediate seating for most parties.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Moderate — vegetable ramen, skewers, and basic veggie rolls are available.
Vegan options: Limited — broth and skewer options are not fully vegan; a couple of roll or side modifications may work.
Gluten-free options: Some workable options like sashimi, certain skewers, and basic rolls; ramen is not gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — it’s relaxed, cozy, and affordable, with enough menu variety to keep things engaging without feeling formal or high-pressure.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually — walk-ins are common, especially for two-tops. Arrive early on weekends to avoid waits from larger groups.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy ramen or skewers; space is tight for strollers and there’s no dedicated kids’ menu.
Best For
Better for: Casual sushi-and-ramen dates where comfort food, quick service, and a low-key atmosphere matter more than elaborate omakase.
Skip if: You want premium nigiri, a quiet room, or fully vegan/gluten-free Japanese options — nearby omakase or specialty ramen shops will serve you better.
Konoha Yakitori Ramen and Sushi House
8.1
Opened in 2024 just off Seventh Avenue, Konoha is a compact yakitori and ramen house where skewers, signature ramen, and a small sushi menu share the table. It feels more intimate and chef-driven than most neighborhood spots, attracting date nights and ramen hunters looking beyond the obvious choices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Konoha Original Ramen, Yakitori Skewers, Tuna Pizza
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 6.8
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: A chef-focused Union Street spot blending yakitori, ramen, and playful sushi.
Who should go: Couples and ramen fans seeking a cozier, chef-driven experience
When to visit: Early weekend evenings before the small room completely fills
What to order: Konoha Original Ramen, mixed yakitori skewers, tuna “pizza”
Insider tip: Sit at the counter to watch skewers and ramen come together right in front of you.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Union Street and Seventh Avenue is limited; expect moderate difficulty after 6pm and on weekends. No valet.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans are fine, but most diners lean slightly polished for date night.
Noise level: Moderate; you can comfortably hold a conversation, though the room feels lively during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 25–45 minutes for two without a reservation due to the small dining room.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; early weekday dinners also seat quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few strong options, including vegetable ramen and grilled vegetable skewers.
Vegan options: Limited—broths and sauces lean animal-based, though a simple vegetable skewer set is possible.
Gluten-free options: Some sushi and skewers are naturally gluten-free, but ramen is not; ask for soy sauce substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its intimate size, open kitchen, and chef-driven touches make it a great low-pressure but memorable first-date setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, yes. Early evenings and weeknights seat walk-ins fastest, but the small room means short waits are common at peak times.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—older kids who enjoy ramen and skewers will do fine, but the tight layout and date-night energy may not suit very young children.
Best For
Better for: More intimate and chef-driven than larger neighborhood ramen shops, with the added benefit of yakitori and small-format sushi.
Skip if: You want extensive vegan options or need a large, stroller-friendly dining room.