Austin Eats: Ramen Tatsu-Ya Now Open on S. Lamar

For a while, we've been wanting to try out a ramen house.  But our attempts to avoid the anger-inducing Austin traffic that come with venturing North, have kept us away.  But as luck, or the ever-growing restaurant scene would have it, Austin's first Japanese brick & mortar ramen house, Ramen Tatsu-Ya, has opened a second location much closer to our corner of Austin, on South Lamar.  Just a couple doors down from one of my favorite music spots, The Saxon Pub, right next to a convenience store, sits this tiny shop of deliciousness.

On a random Tuesday, we decided to forgo cooking & try out Ramern Tatsu-Ya.  We arrived around 6pm to a short, but fast-moving line.  Greeted by a friendly staff member & quickly served drinks while waiting to step inside, we surveyed the menu, conveniently to the building's pillars.  Since Andrew & I were both pretty unfamiliar with ramen that doesn't come in a package, we chatted with the hostess, who gave us a run-down of the basics & recommended 'starter' bowls.

After deciding on a couple of Munchie Katsu Sliders to start (I'm so glad we got one for each of us instead of sharing!) I ordered the #1 (Tonkotsu Original) & Andrew got the #2 (Tonkotsu Sho-Yu).

Japanese Beer (!)

Munchie Katsu Slider & Japanese Potato Salad.  Can you see the 'stop taking photos & let me EAT!' anticipation in Andrew's hands?  P.S. This happens often...I take way too many photos.

Ramen Tatsu-Ya on South Lamar is a fun mix of bright bold red & black, with natural plywood elements.  It's a tiny venue, but has a lively vibe, with an open kitchen & friendly staff.  After grabbing a couple of seats at the giant communal table in the center of the restaurant, we were swiftly served our appetizers.

Munchie Katsu Slider with Japanese Potato Salad.  And that authentic green tea pictured was good.  Real good.

These sliders & potato salad were a tasty twist on backyard BBQ favorites.  The crispy breaded burgers paired well with the sweet little Hawaiian rolls & that Japanese Potato Salad was a tangy, pickly treat.  A great first bite.

Tonkotsu Original

Soon after, our entrees arrived.  These were pure comfort.  Steamy, warm & hearty, ramen proved to be just right for a chilly evening, or when you just need something to make you feel good. 

Tonkotsu Original

The broth was full of robust flavor.  My bowl had a creamy pork bone base with mushrooms & scallions.  The vegetables blended with the ample soup to create a complex & tasty sauce for the delicious & delicate ramen noodles.      

Ramen Face

The rich, buttery ajitama egg that accompanied the bowl was a decadent touch that added some character to the meal.  And in my opinion, an egg almost always makes a dish better.

Ajitama Egg

We really enjoyed our experience at Ramen Tatsu-Ya & are already planning our second trip back!

Ramen Tatsu-Ya

http://ramen-tatsuya.com/

1234 S. Lamar

Austin, TX 78704

 

Hours

Monday - Sunday, 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.