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Nojo Ramen Tavern
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Nojo Ramen Tavern
8.3
Hayes Valley’s chicken-paitan specialist pairs deeply reduced poultry broth with thicker noodles and izakaya sides. The polished tavern setting works for a late dinner before or after a neighborhood show.
Must-Try Dishes:
Soy Sauce Chicken Paitan, Spicy Tan-Tan, Karaage
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Rich chicken-paitan focus in a tavern setting with strong sides.
Who should go: Design-minded ramen seekers
When to visit: After 9pm for a calmer room
What to order: Soy Sauce Paitan; Tan-Tan; Karaage
Insider tip: Bar seats offer the quickest path to a late bowl.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is tight in Hayes Valley, especially after 6pm; nearby paid garages on Gough and Hayes offer more reliable options.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine, but the polished tavern feel leans toward neat attire.
Noise level: Moderate buzz; lively but you can carry a date-night conversation without shouting.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially after 8pm.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically; early evening walk-ins also easier.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Some sides and appetizers are vegetarian, but ramen options are limited.
Vegan options: Very limited; broth and noodles are not designed for vegan diets.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free noodles or prep; not recommended for strict gluten-free diners.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, polished tavern interiors, and shareable sides make it a stylish but comfortable choice.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible, but waits are common on weekends; bar seating is your best bet for a quicker late-night bowl.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—menu leans adult, no children’s amenities, but older kids who enjoy ramen will be fine.
Best For
Better for: Richer chicken-paitan ramen and a refined izakaya atmosphere compared to casual ramen shops.
Skip if: You want vegan ramen or a quick, budget-friendly bowl—other Hayes Valley ramen counters are better suited.
Nojo Ramen Tavern
8.4
Izakaya-leaning tavern known for chicken paitan as its signature base instead of tonkotsu. The ramen program is complemented by snacks and sake, making it an easy pre- or post-performance stop near Civic Center.
Must-Try Dishes:
Soy Sauce Tori Paitan, Tan-Tan Spicy Miso Paitan, Shio Paitan
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Chicken paitan focus with a full izakaya menu and sake.
Who should go: Couples or small groups pre-show
When to visit: Weeknights after 7pm for calmer flow
What to order: Soy Sauce Tori Paitan; Tan-Tan Spicy Miso; Gyoza
Insider tip: Bar seats are easiest for walk-ins before symphony and opera curtain times.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive near Civic Center; the Civic Center Garage on McAllister is the most reliable option.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans are fine, but many diners dress up slightly for pre-show meals.
Noise level: Moderate buzz with izakaya energy; conversations are possible but expect lively background chatter.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially before performances.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, as lunch service is less crowded.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several small plates and ramen can be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 small plates and modified ramen options if requested.
Gluten-free options: Limited accommodations; broths are fine but noodles contain wheat—gluten-free diners may stick to sides.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the lively izakaya vibe and strong sake list create a fun, conversational setting without being too formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—bar seating is often available for walk-ins, especially just before curtain times, but weekends benefit from booking ahead.
Is it kid-friendly? Not especially—menu and atmosphere skew toward adults, though older kids could enjoy it; no kids’ menu or booster seats.
Best For
Better for: Great for chicken-based ramen lovers and groups wanting ramen plus izakaya-style snacks with sake.
Skip if: Skip if you prefer traditional tonkotsu-style ramen or need extensive vegan/gluten-free options.