Sazan has fast become a beloved ramen spot by locals to Airport Blvd. They specialize in the paitan variety, which comes in a rich cloudy broth, available in original, spicy, or vegan. For more traditional ramen, the Ma-Yu Black Ramen is an excellent choice, made with a savory broth and topped with a rainbow of vegetables. As for accompaniments, try the Indomitable Chicken Wings, twice-cooked and seasoned with their house spice rub, and for dessert, there’s Mochidoki Mochi (mochi ice cream) in a variety of flavors such as Matcha and Ube (purple yam).
Austin has never claimed to be the best place for Japanese food, but that’s not to say it doesn’t rise up to demand. In fact, the local Asian restaurant scene is evolving, no longer confined to Airport Blvd and a few overpriced digs that narrowly pass as Japanese cuisine. Now Austin boasts diversity, including Japanese mom-and-pop-owned restaurants, omakase speakeasies from renowned sushi chefs, authentic ramen shacks, and even big Japanese brand names like Kura, guaranteed to transport you straight to the Far East.
Some Austinites also put their own unique spin on the Japanese favorites, with a Lil help from Texas wagyu and taco shells—hey, variety is the spice of life! Ready to feast on delicious sushi, okonomiyaki, ramen, takoyaki, onigiri, and yakitori? Here’s where to find them in Austin; no plane trip is necessary.