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Tonton Restaurant
Master Critic Review
Tonton Restaurant
7.7
Compact Union Square standby turning out affordable bowls and bento past midnight. It’s a practical, no-frills option when you want ramen fast without the line.
Must-Try Dishes:
Karaage Ramen, Chashu Ramen, Tan-Tan Ramen
Scores:
Value: 9.1
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 7.6
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Late-night ramen at wallet-friendly prices steps from Union Square.
Who should go: Budget-minded night owls
When to visit: After 11pm for instant seating
What to order: Karaage Ramen; Chashu Ramen; Tan-Tan
Insider tip: They’ll tailor spice and broth richness on request.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited near Union Square at night; best bet is nearby garages on O’Farrell or Mason, which run $6–10 for the first hour.
Dress code: Completely casual—jeans, hoodies, or whatever you wore to the show or bar are all fine.
Noise level: Low to moderate; conversations are easy to carry on, though late-night crowds can get a bit lively.
Weekend wait: Minimal waits after 10pm; during 7–9pm dinner peak expect 15–20 minutes.
Weekday lunch: No wait, often half-empty at midday.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—1–2 ramen bowls and bento sides can be made vegetarian upon request.
Vegan options: Limited—broth is animal-based; best bet is veggie sides or a custom noodle bowl with clear guidance.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free ramen; rice bowls are the safer option.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a polished date—it’s more of a casual, budget-friendly stop when you just want noodles late at night.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—reservations aren’t taken; seating is first-come, first-served and almost always available late at night.
Is it kid-friendly? Not especially—it’s a late-night, compact ramen spot with little space for strollers. Fine for older kids but not set up for families with toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Faster service and cheaper prices than trendier ramen shops nearby.
Skip if: Skip if you’re looking for gourmet broth, craft cocktails, or a stylish atmosphere—other spots in Hayes Valley or Lower Nob Hill fit that better.