Frequent readers of DC Socialite may recall Veronica’s initial blog post on Ren’s Ramen.  Well ever since, Ren’s Bethesda had closed only to open up at a more inviting location in Wheaton.  Recently, Wellta expressed her craving for ramen and I am always down to accompany those that want a good bowl.  Choices within hers and Paul’s vicinity include Cafe Asia Rosslyn and Maneki Neko (which is actually closer to me).  While both aforementioned contain a comforting broth and springy noodles that is equally slurp-worthy, they just don’t quite hit the mark in authenticity, availability of options and presentation.  Paraphrasing my original question, I asked Wellta if she was willing to travel the distance for some ramen.  Needless to say, she was on the same page and we met up at Wheaton Metro.

Our hiccup of a journey began at the metro elevator where I proved that even with GPS, I’m no good with following directions.  Shortly after a boomerang route, we found our way to Amherst Avenue and the dinner destination.  Being this is Wellta’s first experience with ramen in the area, I gave her a quick briefing of Ren’s offering, but also told her that the “Bakudan” spicy ramen special is definitely worth trying.  The term “spicy” appeals to any Southeast Asian native (including yours truly), so the Bakudan Tonshio was Wellta’s choice with a side of shoyu soft boiled egg, extra menma (bamboo shoot) and corn.  I went for the classic Tonshio with similar sides.  Whether it’s specific to Ren’s or Sapporo style in general, all bowls (tonshio, shoyu and miso) come with ground pork on top of classic staples such as menma, chopped green onions, bean sprouts and two slices of chashu (roast pork).

Having tried Ren’s on several occasions, I have to say Eiji and Yoko Nakamura’s ramen house is always spot on.  The broth is comforting, yet not overly salty, the egg is consistently staged between runny and hard boiled (as if they they have a sous vide machine in the kitchen) and finally the menma along with nori provides that extra dosage of texture.  I’ve forgotten Wellta’s precise words, but having nearly finished her bowl I think it’s safe to say she’s now a fan.

Ren’s Ramen is located at:
11403 Amherst Avenue
Wheaton, MD 20902
www.rens-ramen.com

Note: As a heads up, they are closed every second and third Tuesday of the month and only accept cash.