Established in 2013, Iza Ramen has become a beloved destination for authentic ramen in San Francisco’s Lower Haight. With a unique recipe crafted by Chef Ritsu Tsuchida, Iza Ramen broke the myth that you need to leave the Bay Area for genuine Japanese ramen. This popular ramen shop offers a menu of meticulously crafted ramen bowls featuring BBQ pork belly, rich triple-stock broth, and springy noodles, all topped with a variety of delicious ingredients. In addition to traditional ramen, Chef Ritsu also serves Tsukemen, a dipping ramen experience that adds a unique twist to traditional ramen dining.
Iza Ramen: A Vision for Authenticity
Chef Ritsu Tsuchida, the culinary visionary behind Iza Ramen, wanted to bring an authentic Japanese ramen experience to San Francisco. After years of training under a renowned sushi master in Tokyo, Chef Ritsu migrated to the Bay Area, bringing with him a passion for flavor and presentation.
His journey began with Blowfish Sushi, an iconic sushi spot in Mission, San Francisco, where he introduced the local community to traditional Japanese flavors with a modern twist. Iza Ramen started as a pop-up at Blowfish, drawing crowds with its carefully crafted ramen, karaage, and izakaya appetizers, and quickly became a sensation among ramen enthusiasts.
A Recipe That Redefines Ramen in the Bay Area
The secret to Iza Ramen’s success lies in its incredible recipe. Each bowl begins with a triple-stock broth, simmered to perfection over several hours to create a rich, deeply flavorful base. The noodles are made to be perfectly chewy, harmonizing with the tender, slow-cooked BBQ pork belly.
Every ingredient, from the soft-boiled egg to the array of vegetables and garnishes, is chosen to elevate the flavor profile of the ramen. Chef Ritsu’s careful attention to each component ensures that each bite is a true taste of authentic Japanese ramen, setting a new standard for ramen in the Bay Area and beyond.
Tsukemen: A Unique Dipping Ramen Experience
For those who want to try a different style, Iza Ramen offers Tsukemen, a dipping ramen that has become popular among patrons. Instead of soaking in the broth, the noodles are served separately and dipped in a concentrated, flavorful sauce just before eating. This approach gives diners more control over their noodle-to-broth ratio and keeps the noodles at an ideal texture.
Tsukemen brings a new dimension to the ramen experience, and Iza Ramen’s version has become a favorite among locals. Chef Ritsu’s dedication to presenting this style of ramen demonstrates his commitment to offering diverse and authentic Japanese dining options.
Signature Menu Highlights at Iza Ramen
At Iza Ramen, the menu is filled with dishes that go beyond ramen to include a range of Japanese izakaya-style appetizers. One of the crowd favourites is the Iza original Karaage Fried Chicken, a crispy, juicy dish seasoned to perfection. The BBQ pork belly ramen remains a best-seller, known for its smoky, tender pork that pairs excellently with the robust broth.
Other menu highlights include the miso-based ramen and vegan ramen options, ensuring that everyone can find something to enjoy. With its unique menu offerings, Iza Ramen continues to attract both newcomers and regulars, establishing itself as a must-visit spot in the city’s vibrant food scene.
From Pop-Up to Permanent: Iza Ramen’s Journey in San Francisco
Iza Ramen’s journey from a pop-up at Blowfish Sushi to a permanent establishment in Lower Haight is a testament to its popularity and success. The original pop-up only operated for limited hours, yet word-of-mouth among Bay Area ramen lovers turned it into a cult favorite. After two and a half years of consistently packed pop-up events, Chef Ritsu and his team found the perfect location to set up a permanent spot.
Today, the Lower Haight location serves locals and visitors alike, offering a full menu of delicious ramen and Japanese small plates in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Iza Ramen’s journey highlights the dedication and hard work that went into creating a celebrated dining destination.
Chef Ritsu Tsuchida: The Visionary Behind the Ramen
Chef Ritsu Tsuchida, the co-owner and executive chef of Iza Ramen, comes from a family of chefs and restaurateurs with a longstanding tradition in Tokyo. His formal training under a sushi master instilled a deep respect for Japanese cuisine and culinary artistry, which is evident in every dish he prepares.
Beyond his work with Iza Ramen, Chef Ritsu has expanded his influence through Blowfish Sushi, a popular sushi restaurant with locations in San Francisco, Hollywood, New Zealand, and San Jose’s Santana Row. His innovative approach has earned him recognition from the prestigious James Beard Foundation, and his culinary career continues to inspire food lovers around the world.
Endnote
For anyone searching for the perfect bowl of ramen in San Francisco, Iza Ramen offers an unparalleled experience. From its rich, triple-stock broth and tender pork belly to its unique dipping ramen, Iza Ramen brings a true taste of Japan to the Bay Area. Chef Ritsu Tsuchida’s passion for flavor and innovation shines through in every bowl, making Iza Ramen a beloved destination for ramen lovers and newcomers alike. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional ramen or exploring Japanese izakaya dishes, Iza Ramen promises a memorable dining experience. Make your way to Lower Haight and discover why Iza Ramen has become a staple in the Bay Area’s culinary landscape.