Seemor
Tenka RamenBWorth Trying
1404 W Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55408
· Restaurant, Asian restaurant, Japanese restaurant
· 4.7/5 Google (652 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Cozy counter-order ramen shop with generous portions and friendly staff; broths please many but a minority report bland or overly salty bowls; good value for a casual Uptown meal.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Tenka Ramen delivers solid neighborhood ramen through strong food quality and attentive service, earning its grade B standing. Occasional consistency issues with broth saltiness and a modest, aging space prevent higher grades, though generous portions, tender chashu, and loyal regulars confirm reliable execution for casual ramen lovers seeking comfort over ambiance.
Restaurant Summary
The little shop on West Lake feels cozy and welcoming, with a counter-order flow and steaming bowls landing fast at small tables. Diners talk about friendly staff and tender pork belly, with one guest noting, "the bowl really hit the spot on a cold night." Cooking leans traditional rather than flashy: tonkotsu, spicy miso, torishio, plus simple sides like gyoza and karaage. Expect comfort-first ramen with generous portions and customizable toppings. While many love the rich broths, a minority report bowls that taste bland or occasionally too salty—worth adding spice or an extra topping if you prefer bolder flavors. Families do well here. The menu includes kid-friendly staples like fried rice, buns, and mild ramen, and portions often stretch to leftovers. There is no explicit kids menu, but the straightforward options and casual setup make it easy for younger eaters.
At a Glance
- Generous portions and tender chashu earn repeat visits
- Friendly, efficient staff with fast-casual ordering
- Some bowls reported as bland or overly salty
- Tight, aging space with limited ambiance polish
- Reported online order surcharge from one reviewer
What Sets It Apart
- cozy_counter_order_model
- generous_portions
- bike_and_transit_accessibility
What People Love
- Comforting broths that warm you up
- Thick-cut chashu with great flavor
- Straightforward menu that delivers
- Friendly, kind staff that keep things moving
Points of Concern
- Inconsistent seasoning: a minority describe bland or overly salty broth
- Small, somewhat worn dining room may feel tight during rush
- Late-evening closing rigidity reported by one guest
- Review patterns show owner templated replies; customer reviews still appear organic overall
- Pricing is moderate, but one guest felt the bowl plus drink added up more than expected
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$24-$34 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For vegetarians: Vegetarian Ramen ($11.95) plus extra tofu or corn
- For kids: Torishio (mild), fried rice, or buns
- Value combo: Tonkotsu + gyoza for a hearty under-$25 meal pre-tax
Perfect For
- A quick, warming dinner on a cold day
- Casual noodle cravings without table-service formality
- Families seeking approachable Japanese comfort food
- Solo diners wanting a fast, satisfying meal
Location Insights
Area: Bustling Uptown corridor mixing casual dining, bars, and neighborhood retail; popular with students and young professionals.
Safety: Generally busy with steady foot traffic; occasional urban nuisances noted in Uptown but no specific safety incidents in reviews.
Nearby: Near bus routes and Midtown Greenway; bike-friendly; surrounded by cafes, small eateries, and nightlife.
Lowry Hill EastLowry Hill East offers a dynamic dining scene with trendy cafes, eclectic restaurants, and bars. The social atmosphere is energetic yet laid-back, appealing to those seeking both casual and upscale dining experiences in a walkable, urban setting.
W Lake Street CorridorThe W Lake Street Corridor is known for its multicultural dining options, casual eateries, and a bustling street vibe. It serves as a hub for both locals and visitors looking for affordable and authentic food experiences.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday11:00–21:00
Wednesday11:00–21:00
Thursday11:00–21:00
Friday11:00–21:00
Saturday11:00–21:00
Sunday11:00–21:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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