Seemor
Ramen KazamaBWorth Trying
3400 Nicollet Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55408
· Ramen restaurant, Restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (1445 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
A dependable Twin Cities ramen spot with rich tonkotsu, excellent karaage, quick hybrid ordering, and fair prices, though occasional service hiccups and inconsistency appear at peak times.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Ramen Kazama delivers solid neighborhood ramen through exceptional tonkotsu and karaage execution and efficient, friendly service, earning a grade B standing. However, inconsistent broth quality during late-evening hours and tight seating constraints prevent higher placement. Strong local loyalty and reasonable value support its reputation as a reliable casual favorite rather than a destination standout.
Restaurant Summary
A small Eat Street nook with cozy, buzzing energy, Ramen Kazama wins loyalists on the strength of its bowls and a flow that keeps things moving. One diner summed it up: "The broth was rich and the food came out fast," with staff who feel kind and efficient. Expect a neighborhood vibe, art on the walls, and quick turnover during peak hours. Cooking skews classic rather than flashy: deep, porky tonkotsu; straightforward shoyu; a mild-leaning spicy miso; plus a reliably crispy karaage that many call the sleeper hit. The approach is traditional and focused, with customization via add-ons instead of chef theatrics. If you want a hearty bowl done right and out the door happy, this is a solid bet—just know that late-evening visits can be less consistent. Families do fine here thanks to kid-friendly options like karaage, fried rice, onigiri, and gentler broths. The menu lists a true vegan ramen and simple sides like edamame and seaweed, so mixed-diet groups are covered. Space is tight and seating is first-come, so arrive early if wrangling a hungry crew.
At a Glance
- Deep, satisfying tonkotsu and standout karaage
- Flexible ordering (QR or counter) with fast kitchen turns
- Real vegan and vegetarian ramen options
- Inconsistency late evening and during rushes
- Street parking only; small dining room
What Sets It Apart
- hybrid_ordering_speed
- deep_tonkotsu_broth
- strong_local_following
What People Love
- Rich, long-cooked broths
- Crispy, juicy karaage with dipping sauce
- Speedy service despite crowds
- Neighborhood feel with cool wall art
- Customization with toppings
Points of Concern
- Occasional bland or oversalty bowls reported at peak times
- Takeout delays and missed orders during rush periods
- A few reports of rude interactions; not the norm
- Street parking only and limited seating can mean waits
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleHybrid
Average Cost$28-36 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- For vegans: Veggie or Veggie Curry ramen plus edamame or seaweed.
- For kids: Karaage with rice or mild shoyu broth.
- For value: Shoyu or Veggie ramen with a shared small plate.
Perfect For
- Casual weeknight ramen cravings
- Solo slurps at the bar with quick service
- Groups mixing meat-eaters and vegans
- Pre-show or post-errand quick meal
Location Insights
Area: Casual urban corridor on Eat Street with eclectic, budget-friendly spots popular with students and locals.
Safety: Generally busy with regular foot traffic; typical urban vigilance recommended at night.
Nearby: Near other Asian eateries, cafés, bars, and bike lanes; multiple bus routes within short walk.
Uptown MinneapolisThe dining scene in Uptown is dynamic, featuring a mix of casual eateries, upscale restaurants, and bars. The area is popular for its walkability, nightlife, and a youthful, creative atmosphere that encourages social dining and diverse culinary experiences.
Nicollet Avenue CorridorThis stretch along Nicollet Avenue is a focal point within Uptown, known for its concentration of restaurants, cafes, and bars. It offers a bustling, energetic environment with a mix of casual and upscale venues, attracting a crowd interested in contemporary dining and socializing.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday17:00–21:00
Wednesday17:00–21:00
Thursday17:00–21:00
Friday17:00–21:00
Saturday12:00–15:00, 17:00–21:00
Sunday12:00–15:00, 17:00–21:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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