This Legendary Ramen Restaurant Brings Its Award-Winning Flavors to Costa Mesa
If thereās one thing Iāve learned in life, itās that every great love story begins with an unforgettable first date. And in the world of food, thereās no love affair more intoxicating than the one between a hungry heart and the perfect bowl of ramen. Enter Ramen NagiāJapanās legendary noodle mecca, which is about to shake up Costa Mesaās culinary scene in a way that only a ramen empire can. Mark your calendars fellow broth enthusiasts because on March 17, Ramen Nagi is making its grand debut at South Coast Plaza, and trust meāyouāre going to want to be first in line.
The Cult of Nagi
For those unfamiliar with the legend, letās take a quick trip back to Tokyo. The year was 2004, and a young, ambitious ramen virtuoso named Satoshi Ikuta had a dream: to craft a bowl of ramen so divine that people would willingly wait in long lines just to slurp it down. Fast-forward to today, and Ramen Nagi has exploded across Japan, Asia and the U.S., collecting accolades like fashionistas collect Birkins. With nearly 40 locations worldwide, this brand isnāt just about noodlesāitās about an experience. And now, finally, after years of Orange County foodies making the pilgrimage to LA and San Diego for their fix, Ramen Nagi has heard our cries for help.
āRamen Nagi offers authentic and innovative Japanese ramen and a rich culinary heritage that we believe will be a fantastic addition to the areaās dynamic food scene and culturally vibrant community.ā says Founder and Master Ramen Chef Satoshi Ikuta.
A Broth for Every Mood
Hereās the thing about Ramen Nagiāit doesnāt just serve ramen. It serves the ramen. Their menu is a love letter to umami, offering five signature bowls that range from classic to utterly avant-garde.
- The Original King: The quintessential tonkotsu experience, rich, creamy and absolutely hypnotizing.
- The Red King: If you like your ramen with a side of fire, this oneās for you. Garlic, chili oil, cayenne pepper and miso-infused minced pork create a broth thatās both spicy and seductive.
- The Black King: A deep, inky concoction infused with blackened garlic and calamari ink. Itās the dark horse of the lineupāsmoky, mysterious and unapologetically bold.
- The Green King: Ever wondered what happens when ramen meets Italian decadence? This bowl combines fresh basil, olive oil, tonkotsu broth and a parmesan flourish for a totally unexpected (and totally addictive) flavor profile.
- The Veggie King: A plant-based marvel featuring Japanese soup stock, mushroom and cauliflower purĆ©e, and a crispy potato āchashuā that might just convert even the most devoted carnivores.
Customization is the name of the game hereāchoose your broth richness, noodle doneness, spice leaves and toppings, ensuring every bowl is a masterpiece tailored to your taste. And because no love story is complete without a little side action, Ramen Nagi also serves up mouthwatering bites like crispy Karaage Chicken, golden Snack Gyoza and comforting Chashu Rice to round out your meal.
The Grand Opening Surprise
If thereās one thing Ramen Nagi loves, itās keeping things spicy (literally and figuratively). To celebrate its grand opening in Orange County, the restaurant will unveil a brand-new Limited King Ramenāa mystery flavor that will only be available during opening week. Over the years, Ramen Nagi has created over 1,000 variations of its Limited King series. The only way to find out what this exclusive bowl entails? Show up on March 17 and prepare to be wowed.
Slurping in Style
Now, letās talk about ambiance. Designed by Tokyo-based visionary Kenichi Yano, Ramen Nagiās South Coast Plaza outpost is an Instagrammerās dream, blending Japanese minimalism with vibrant modern energy. Picture sleek black cedar wood, playful artwork and splashes of that signature Nagi red, all wrapped around an open kitchen where chefs put on a noodle-making show. With 70 seatsāincluding bar seating, cozy tables and a communal dining areaāthereās a perfect spot for every kind of ramen date, whether itās a quick solo slurp or a long, lingering meal with friends. And if you prefer your ramen with a side of fresh air? The covered patio at this new Costa Mesa restaurant makes al fresco dining an option all year long.
The Final Noodle Drop
Hereās the deal: If youāve ever stared at Instagram-worthy ramen, wondering when youād try it, your time has come. Ramen Nagi in Costa Mesa isnāt just another ramen shopāitās a destination, a revelation, and a taste bud awakening. Orange County will have two kinds of peopleāthose whoāve experienced Ramen Nagi and those still waiting in line.
Ramen Nagi at South Coast Plaza
3333 Bear St, Ste 151
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
@ramennagiusa
This article is brought to you by one of the many talented writers associated with Locale Magazine! We are a group of locals (whether born and raised or transplanted) who love this county we now call home!
