Ramen Koika - Vancouver

This Vancouver restaurant is one of my top choices for ramen. The tonkotsu shio ramen I ordered was not only delicious but also reasonably priced. I have visited a few times in the past and will definitely be back again.

Fantastic ramen place with a wide variety of choices and generous portions. I tried the spicy miso and it was delicious overall, although the egg was slightly overcooked. I definitely want to come back and try the tonkontsu and black garlic ramen, as well as the smoked chasu.

Koika is a top ramen spot on the west side, highly recommended by word of mouth. After trying a couple of their bowls, I can see why. During my first visit, I tried the chicken tomago ramen with their signature smoked chashu, and it exceeded my expectations. The broth was flavorful, the chashu was perfectly smoky, and the eggs were delicious. On my second visit, I opted for the triple black tonkotsu without any additional toppings. While the broth was good, it didn't stand out like the chicken ramen did. I did enjoy the unique addition of steamed spinach on top. The service was efficient and the food came out quickly, as expected at a ramen spot. They offer a variety of ramen types, but I will definitely be sticking with the chicken tomago in the future. The restaurant doesn't seem to have long lines, as I visited on a Saturday afternoon and it was not crowded. The seating is primarily small tables and bar-type seating, so it's best for smaller groups.

“Ramen Koika” is home to the only ramen challenge in the city. Here, the goal is to finish one of their “Big Bowls” of ramen in under 10 minutes. Also making it the only challenge that you have to undertake in such short amount of time. And when you layer on the fact that it is served piping hot, we went in knowing we had a slim chance of winning. However, there are apparently six individuals who have attempted and succeeded in their challenge, and the seventh we witnessed during our stay. A victory earned them their photo on the restaurant’s wall, the challenge for free, and a gift certificate for another bowl on the house during their next visit.

They always have fun promotions going on, came in here during the summer for their tsukemen (cold noodle) ramen promo, and they have some sort of Trick-or-Treat promo going on right now? They also have a variety of ramen compared to other places around the area. Food wise, it's pretty ok!! Not the absolute best, but its still very yummy.  Enjoyed the food here. It also didn't give me the runs. 4/5 stars.