Good Eats: J. Ramen and Sushi
Editor’s note: Originally published January 26, 2016. Republished May 21, 2020.
Quite recently, we here in Downtown Everett received a wonderful gift from the food gods. A new restaurant! It’s been a while so forgive me if I seem a bit over-excited. Sorry-not-sorry. Anyways, not long back, Tyler (who helps run this website) and I went to check it out. We took this as a personal challenge to really go for broke.
When we first entered we were greeted by a clean and modern vibe. The interior is elegant, intimate, and simple using warm wood and soft lighting. We were greeted quickly and offered a table. There is a sense of calm and casualness but the service doesn’t lack due to these things. In fact, the service is fantastic. Everyone is so warm, knowledgeable and proficient, you’d think they actually want you to keep coming back. What a novel idea.
We started by sharing a large carafe of their House Sake and we had it served warm. I am by no means "in the know" when it comes to Sake, however I will say that I enjoyed it and I found it delicious. Tyler mentioned that we ought to try the Potato Croquette as an appetizer and I’ll just say that the South really missed this one. Mashed Potatoes, panko breaded, and deep fried crisp and delicious. C’mon! So good. We also ordered one of their specialty rolls and it was super solid. The fish was fresh and the flavors were complex yet complimentary. Tyler and I were fighting over the last few pieces!
Potato Croquette (Deep Fried Mashed Potatoes).
Our Ramen came next. We both ordered the spicy Ramen and it is spicy. Not overwhelming but not for the faint of mouth (is that a thing?) either. The pork broth is rich and filling. The pork belly is delectable and probably my favorite thing I had all night. There is a generous portion of noodles along with all the accouterments (mushrooms of several varieties, seaweed, soft boiled egg, and other delicious treats). Everything was prepared expertly. The Ramen portions are large and I had plenty left over to take home for later! J, the owner even came out and checked on us making sure everything was great.
A shot for size reference. My hand is average sized. Your belly will get full.
A look inside the bowl.
We here in Everett are lucky. J is really doing it and he’s doing well. Fantastic service, quality food, and a really great price. Tyler and I had sake, an appetizer, a specialty roll, and two bowls of ramen and we got out of there for less than $50! I’ve been back to try their take on Chicken Teriyaki (served with Brussels Sprouts-hallelujah!) and I was once again not disappointed.
A generous helping of deliciousness. Sharing one of these rolls may cause a fight.
So friends, if you’ve been in before it’s time to go again. And if you haven’t I seriously don’t know what you’re waiting for. Make it happen!
J. Ramen and Sushi
1011 Hewitt Ave
Everett, WA 98201
