Compact Japanese noodle shop with a variety of ramen dishes from pork broth to spicy & vegetarian.
Jessica
My dad and I got the Tonkotsu ramen. Really, REALLY good! Our server recommended us the stir-fry for next time. It was the perfect weather for ramen and Kumako didn’t disappoint. I’d go again purely for the cozy atmosphere. It’s not a wide restaurant, it reminds me of the hole in the wall ramen places in Japan.
… moreFaith
We had a great time when we went last Friday, September 26, 2025. We got the Katsu Curry and the Tonkotsu Ramen, and they were top notch. The flavors were great and satisfying, and even though they were dishes we had tried before, Kumako’s dishes taste and feel better. Their portions are big, but not overwhelming. The restaurant staff were very nice and hospitable, and they really made our time even better. I think it was so convenient that they were one of the few restaurants open in Japantwon during that time. We ate there at around 1:40 pm and most restaurants were about to close up.
… moreYohanes Ng
Strongly recommended their Katsu Curry items (rice or ramen). I’ve had them at least once monthly over five months and each time they remained consistently delicious, generous, and thick. Service is quick and friendly.
… moreaq xin
Ramen is high-competition these days but Kumako Ramen does not disappoint with their experience. They’re a long-standing family-owned restaurant with more than just the classic selection. I personally loved the shio ramen with its fresh toppings and deep broth flavor. Atmosphere inside is intimate and busy, prices are fair, and service is friendly and quick. Hope to be back soon to try other items.
… moreJason Wood
From the moment we walked in, the staff’s warmth and attentiveness made us feel instantly at ease—as if we were being welcomed into someone’s home rather than just a restaurant.
The food itself was a delight. Each dish was bursting with flavor and clearly made with care, turning what could have been just a meal into a genuinely memorable experience. The balance of tastes and presentation made every bite stand out.
What truly made the evening special, though, was the energy of the team. Friendly, attentive, and genuinely engaged, they made the dining experience feel personal and effortless. We left already planning our next visit—this isn’t just a place to eat, it’s a place to savor and enjoy.
… moreMan Do
We come as a recommendation from a friend in early evening to avoid the crowds. The service lady, who is also the owner of the shop, is very attentive to the customers. The food was great. The Takoyaki is meaty and crispy. The gyoza is crispy on one side and soft on the other, and juicy inside. Deep fried oysters are crispy and good size oyster not too big and not too much batter. The ramens are excellent. The noodles are perfect compared to many popular franchises. Black garlic soup base is so savory, sweet and smooth at the same time. The eggs are juicy if you like soft boiled. The pork tonkatsu is crispy but the meat is tender and juicy.
… moreR Klinger
Went here for lunch during the week in Japantown. Nice joint for good Katsu Curry and Rice which what I had. Several people were ordering the Ramen so I will have to try that the next time I come. 18 seats total including the counter. Service was very friendly! Menu has lots of options for those who have a variety of tastes from appetizers to mains and drinks. Prices were reasonable compared with the current food inflation.
… moreJack Lau
This is fine. Food is fresh and tasty. Not the best or the worst, simply satisfying on a cold day.
… moreDaniel Parvin
Every aspect about this restaurant was amazing. They were open during the 2 hour block where most restaraunts were closed so I went in with my cousin visiting San Jose. The employee/owner was very helpful and showed me all the vegetarian options they had. I ended up going with the item listed as “stir fry” which was delicious. It was like the best of both worlds of noodles as it still was a noodle with soup, but also had stir fried parts to it like the cabbage and noodles which was delicious as somebody who loves cabbage. I definitely would recommend coming here, especially if it is your first time trying non instant ramen like me, but even if you have high ramen standards I’m sure Kumako won’t disappoint! Also for the Bay Area and how much food I got and how long I stayed in the restaurant, the price was very good too.
… moreMarce Coral
Kumako Ramen never disappoints. I’ve been coming here for years and will continue for many more. The Bay Area is known for its excellent Japanese food, but the ramen at this shop stands out. Rich, flavorful, and consistently delicious. The recipe never changes, so you can always count on that familiar, satisfying taste. The curry is another standout, packed with deep, comforting flavors that make it the perfect dish. The service is always warm and welcoming, adding to the overall experience. While the line can be long, it’s well worth the wait. Rain or shine, I’ll always be in line for my turn.
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