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The Most Complete Guide to Shirataki Noodles

by

So you open a brand new package and immediately there’s a fishy odor. You’re probably wondering why didn’t I purchase the right one? How do I even cook shirataki noodles? What have I gotten myself into? Well, you’re not alone and you’ve come to the right place. I’m going to make you love this keto staple and show you all the different combinations you can cook with.

Last updated: May 22, 2020

This post may contain affiliate links which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you as it helps support my page which is much appreciated!

The Best Shirataki Noodles

Shirataki Noodles laid out on ligh blue surface

When I first started keto I really had no idea where to buy and which ones to purchase. There’s not much information on these noodles and so I figured to compile a list of shirataki noodles to review for myself. Upon developing my shirataki recipes, I was able to discover not all were created equal. There are little quirks here and there. The more I ate, the more different they were. Below are some of the criteria I found to matter between each brand.

Taste – Texture – Shape – Smell – Look
Trust – Third party verified with their Certifications/Seals.
Price – How does it compare price wise? 
Convenience – Any refrigeration? Is there extra prep work?
Net Carbs – The less net carbs, the better the score.
Odor – The less the odor, the better score.

Liviva (f/k/a Zeroodles)

Zeroodle package
Zeroodle package opened with two pouches
Double inner pouches

Liviva Spaghetti

Reviewed by Rich Chow

Taste
Certificates
Price
Convenience
Net Carbs
Odor

Best Rated #1

I was pleasantly surprised by Liviva which was rebranded from Zeroodles. As someone who’s into working out, this one has 2 grams of protein with an impressive 0 net carbs. There was a subtle odor present but I can’t say it was fishy nor was it unpleasant. I also like they have all their certificates which gives me a level of trust putting me at ease. In addition, I have no complaints about the texture and color. These are the closest thing to pasta without being pasta. Factoring in their certificates, organic status, protein count, and their fair price it’s really difficult to beat Liviva.

4.5
zeroodle noodles on plate
Opaque and off white

Pros

  • Organic, zero net carbs!
  • 2 grams of protein.
  • Comes in two pouches.
  • Certificates in all major categories.
  • Easy preparation.
  • No Boiling or refrigeration required.

Cons

  • Limited availability.
  • Just two shapes: Spaghetti and Rice.

Other Variants: Rice.
Texture most similar to: Ramen or Rounder Pho Noodles.
Where to Buy: Amazon

Newdles

Newdles natural konjac spaghetti package
Double pouches

Newdles Natural Konjac Spaghetti

Reviewed by Rich Chow

Taste
Certificates
Price
Ease
Net Carbs
Odor

My Value Pick

I have to say these are one of my personal favorites. The score would be much higher if Newdles could get certificates but really besides that, I only have good things to share. My favorite is the shape and texture of the noodles. They are chewy (not rubbery) with a good opaque color to it. These are the closest thing to spaghetti as the noodles are thicker than other brands. I also want to point out that the smell is very subtle. One I wouldn’t call a fishy one, but an earthy aroma that goes away once it’s cooked. Newdles is my value pick and if you’re looking for a spaghetti substitute, this is the one to get.

4
Newdles Natural Konjac Spaghetti on plate
Thick and opaque off-white white

Pros

  • Very subtle earthy smell.
  • Opaque Off-White color.
  • Packaged with two pouches.
  • Lots of flavors offered: seafood, pickled cabbage, tomato, spice, chicken.
  • Second cheapest compared to other brands.
  • Options for a traditional shirataki and one with oats and soy.
  • Zero Net Carbs and just 10 calories
  • Fettuccine and rice shapes available
  • Ready to eat. No boiling required.
  • Easy storage. No refrigeration.

Cons

  • No third party certificates.
  • Lacking in other shapes such as fettuccine or rice.
  • Not available at brick and mortars, online only.

Other Variants: Flavored Noodles such as Seafood, Pickled Cabbage, Tomato, Spicy, and Chicken
Texture most similar to: Spaghetti.
Where to Buy: Amazon

Newdle product packages
I want to thank Newdles for sending me these for my review!

Miracle Noodle

An image of Miracle Noodle Angel Hair package
Packaging doesn’t have a window to see noodles
Miracle Noodle Angel Hair opened with inner pouch
I like that there’s a protective pouch inside

Miracle Noodle Angel Hair

Reviewed by Rich Chow

Taste
Certificates
Price
Convenience
Net Carbs
Odor

…. OK.

I believe these are the most widely available and accessible. They’re so popular, the miracle name itself has become the generic name for shirataki noodles. The picture above is their new packaging design which I like a little better than the previous one. I like that they have third party certifications (Gluten Free, non-GMO, Vegan, Kosher, Halal) which gives me assurance. As for their noodles, there is a fishy odor upon opening which eventually goes away once dried in a frying pan. The texture is not as rubbery as Skinny Pasta. I’d get these if odor is not a problem and you need noodles last minute, otherwise there are better options online.

3.5
Miracle Noodles Angel Hair on a plate
Translucent.

Pros

  • Widely available.
  • No Refrigeration Required.
  • Trustworthy.
  • Zero net Carbs.
  • No boiling required.

Cons

  • Odor
  • Noodles are on the thinner side.  
  • Noodles shrink after heating.
  • Not out of the bag ready to eat. Instruction asks to dry on frying pan.

Other Variants: Fettuccine, Rice, Ziti, Organic options. Ready to eat flavors: Pho, Thai Tom Yum, Pad Thai, Curry.
Texture most similar to: Vermicelli
Where to buy: Walmart, Sprouts, Whole Foods Market, Amazon.

Well Lean

Well Lean Noodles package
Well Lean Noodles opened package with inner pouch
I like there’s an inner pouch

Well Lean Spaghetti

Reviewed by Rich Chow

Taste
Certificates
Price
Ease
Net Carbs
Odor

Organic Goodness

These noodles are great. I also want to point out they’re organic which many brands do not offer. There were no fishy smells present, but there was an earthy aroma which isn’t unpleasant by any means. The texture and color is pretty good as it has more of a rice noodle consistency most noodle lovers can expect. I can definitely use these for either pasta or for any Asian dish. As for the superficial things, it could use some more third party certificates and a little pricier than other brands.

3.5
Well Lean noodles on plate
Very angel hair-like.

Pros

  • Organic.
  • Zero Net Carbs and just 5 calories
  • Fettuccine and rice shapes available
  • Ready to eat. No boiling required.
  • Easy storage. No refrigeration.

Cons

  • Could use more third party diet certificates
  • Pricey especially when compared to Liviva which is also organic

Other Variants: Fettucine, Rice.
Texture most similar to: Spaghetti or thicker and rounder rice noodles.
Where to Buy: Amazon

Well Lean noodles and fettuccine packages
I want to thank Well Lean for sending me these for my review!

Skinny Pasta

Skinny Pasta image of Spaghetti shape and Noodles Shape packages
Easy to read packaging. Nice colors.
Skinny pasta image of packages opened
Points for the protective pouch inside.

Skinny Pasta Noodles Shape

Reviewed by Rich Chow

Taste
Certificate
Price
Convenience
Net Carbs
Odor

Completely Odor Free & Lots of shapes

I found these at my local Walmart Neighborhood Store and Sprouts. They are fairly available at most markets. I like that they’ve included both a spaghetti and noodles shape. The difference lies in the thickness of each product where spaghetti is a little thicker than the noodle version. With that said, I was very surprised to find these noodles did not smell by any means. Out of all the brands, these are 100% odor free. If odor is a deal breaker for you then, this is the one to purchase. However, the rubbery texture can be difficult to get pass.

3.3
Skinny pasta images of shirataki noodles on the plate
(Left) Spaghetti vs (Right) Noodles
Both Translucent.

Pros

  • No fishy smell.
  • No Refrigeration Required.
  • Zero Net Carbs!
  • No boiling required.
  • Weight Watchers Endorsed.
  • Widest Variety of shapes
  • Can be found in major big box stores

Cons

  • Pricey
  • Too Translucent
  • Rubbery texture

Other Variants: Fettuccine, Spaghetti, Rice, Cous Cous, Lasagna.
Texture most similar to: Vermicelli
Where to buy: Walmart, Sprouts, Amazon. 

NutriNoodle

Nutri Noodle spaghetti package
Nutri Noodle opened package with inner pouch
Inner pouch

Nutri Noodle Spaghetti w/ Oat & Soybean Fiber

Reviewed by Rich Chow

Taste
Certificates
Price
Ease
Net Carbs
Odor

Cutest Package ever

Much like House Foods, NutriNoodle gives you the choice to purchase one with and without soybean which is huge if you’re allergic to soy. And believe it or not, there’s some difference between the two as the soy and oats fiber influences the texture, color, and smell of the noodles. For my review, I went with the soy and oats version which reminded me so much of Singapore Noodles due to its yellow color and thinness. I actually made Pad Thai using these noodles and they turned out great. I think these are perfect for general stir frying and for ramen.

3.2
Nutri Noodle Spaghetti on plate
Very Egg Noodles and angel hair like

Pros

  • Options for a traditional shirataki and one with oats and soy.
  • Zero Net Carbs and just 10 calories
  • Fettuccine and rice shapes available
  • Ready to eat. No boiling required.
  • Easy storage. No refrigeration.

Cons

  • No third party certificates.
  • Pricey.

Other Variants: Fettuccine, Rice, Fiber Oat Options.
Texture most similar to: Singapore Noodles or thin egg noodles.
Where to Buy: Amazon

Nutri Noodle packages of fettuccine, shirataki rice, and spaghetti
I want to thank Nutri Noodle for sending me these for my review!

Nasoya Pasta Zero

Nasoya Pasta Zero Spaghetti package

Nasoya Pasta Zero Spaghetti

Reviewed by Rich Chow

Taste
Certificates
Price
Convenience
Net Carbs
Odor

Great texture

Right off the bat when you look at the noodles you can see these are different from the other brands. They’re not translucent, and lighter in color than the House Brand Tofu Shirataki Noodles. They are more similar to the rice noodles in pho, I’d even say they’re a little thicker. I also want to point out these noodles have chickpea flour and potato starch ingredients which most likely is the reason for the higher carbs. I’d get these if I needed it last minute, but the 3 grams of net carbs can be a deal breaker for some.

3.2
Nasoya Pasta Zero on plate
Pretty close to the real noodles

Pros

  • Subtle “chemical” odor present, not “fishy” though.
  • Pretty close to angel hair.
  • Not rubbery.
  • Ready out of the bag. Very little prep work needed.
  • Fairly priced.
  • Good Availability both online and grocery chains

Cons

  • Requires refrigeration.
  • Need more certifications.
  • 3 grams of net carbs.
  • Lack of variety. Just Spaghetti and Fettuccine.
  • Could use an inner pouch for durability

Other Variants: Fettuccine.
Texture most similar to: Angel hair, Ramen noodles.
Where to buy: Safeway, Walmart, Amazon.

No Oodle

No Oodle Package

No Oodle Angel Hair

Reviewed by Rich Chow

Taste
Certificates
Price
Convenience
Net Carbs
Odor

Taste like Miracle Noodle

The odor and taste is very similar to Miracle Noodles. They’ve got to be siblings and the differences between the two are found in their pricing and certificates as No Oodle is the higher one with no certificates. I can only think of one reason for the higher price and out of all the brands they’re the only ones boasting a made in USA label. Also note that these may require cutting in half as the noodles are very long making it difficult to split a meal.

3
No Oodle Angel Hair on plate
Translucent

Pros

  • Zero everything! No calories, fat, net carbs.
  • Easy preparation. Literally just remove
  • No refrigeration required.
  • Made in the USA.
  • Offers a family size package of 32 oz.
  • Also comes in Angel hair and Fettuccine

Cons

  • Initial fishy smell. Similar to Miracle Noodles.
  • Packaging. Would like to see an inner pouch for extra durability.
  • No third party dietary certifications.

Other Variants: Fettuccine, and 32 oz size.
Texture most similar to: Vermicelli
Where to Buy: Amazon

House Foods Traditional

House Foods Traditional Shirataki Noodles package

House Foods Traditional Shirataki

Reviewed by Rich Chow

Taste
Certificates
Price
Convenience
Net Carbs
Odor

Inexpensive.

I was happy to find out that House Foods was making a pure version of their tofu shirataki noodles which contains no tofu. I was even more surprised they had them at my local supermarket. They do pretty good absorbing the stir fry sauce I was making and it went very well. The biggest downside are their net carbs at 6 grams as other similar shirataki noodles contain none.

2.8
House Foods Traditional Shirataki Noodles on plate
Like a thicker vermicelli

Pros

  • Lowest in Price.
  • Certifications in Non GMO, Gluten Free, and Kosher.
  • Zero Calories.
  • Just 3 Ingredients.

Cons

  • Fish Odor.
  • Requires refrigeration.
  • Limited Availability, not available at Amazon.
  • High Net Carbs at 5 grams.
  • Boiling Required.
  • Could use an inner pouch for durability

Other Variants: None.
Texture most similar to: Vermicelli
Where to buy: Sprouts, online.

House Foods Tofu

House Foods tofu shirataki spaghetti package

House Foods Tofu Shirataki Spaghetti

Reviewed by Rich Chow

Taste
Certificates
Price
Convenience
Net Carbs
Odor

Odor is strong, but silky texture

These House Brand noodles are unique because of its tofu ingredient which adds to the texture which makes it closer to ramen especially with its color. They are the least like rubber. As for the odor, this one has one of the strongest which does go away after cooking them. One thing to watch out for are their net carbs. At 6 grams, they have the highest which could be a major deal breaker for the hardcore keto-er.

2.7
House Foods Tofu Shirataki Noodles on plate

Pros

  • Initial fishy odor present.
  • Certifications in Non GMO, Gluten Free, and Kosher.
  • Texture.
  • Closest one to real noodles.
  • Non GMO, GF, and Kosher certified.

Cons

  • Requires refrigeration.
  • 6 grams of Net Carbs.
  • Boiling required. 
  • Could use an inner pouch for durability

Other Variants: Fettucine, Macaroni, and Angel Hair.
Texture most similar to: Angel hair, Ramen noodles.
Where to buy: Safeway, Sprouts, Amazon, Wegman.

Where do I find them once inside the market?

There are three places these noodles are usually found:

  1. Pasta Aisle
  2. Asian/Ethnic Aisle
  3. Tofu Section in Produce

And if in doubt, ask a store representative. 

What does Shirataki Noodles Taste like?

First of all, there are a few things you can expect from shirataki noodles. These will never truly taste like real pasta or noodles. You can always get close to it but they will never taste the same. Generally, shirataki noodles have a firm, stretchy, and chewy texture. The color tends to be translucent unless the manufacturer includes other ingredients. They do not have any flavors but at times you can expect a natural “earthy” or a “fishy” smell to it depending on the manufacturer but many times if you prepare it like this, then the smell goes away making it a non-factor. Whatever you do, do not expect them to be a 1 to 1 replacement of pasta but rather an imitation like many meats out there.

What are Shirataki noodles?

[Shirataki Noodles] are thin, translucent, gelatinous traditional Japanese noodles made from the konjac yam (devil’s tongue yam or elephant yam). The word “shirataki” means white waterfall, referring to the appearance of these noodles. Largely composed of water and glucomannan, a water-soluble dietary fiber, they are very low in digestible carbohydrates and calories, and have little flavor of their own.”

Due to their low carbs (sometimes at zero net carbs) shirataki noodles have become quite popular within the keto, atkins, and low carb diet community.

Why the fishy smell?

For certain manufacturers, as soon as you open the package you will most likely be turned off by the smell. No, don’t toss them out. Your noodles have not expired, they’re actually supposed to smell that way. Believe it or not but the ingredient shirataki noodles are made from, Konjac Yam, actually smells like that naturally. As a matter of fact, konjac plants has been used for making vegan seafood due to that exact reason. But don’t fret, konjac root is also used for making children snacks like fruit jelly so the smell does not need to linger and if you follow my recipe, it should be gone. Boiling them and stir frying it will reduce the smell and once you add spices and sauces, the noodles will absorb it thus abandoning that pungy odor.

Why are they different colored?

These noodles usually come in two major colors. One that is white which is the one you’ll see in most grocery stores and the other has a dark gray color. Shirakiku’s (one of Japan’s largest food manufacturers categorizes it as black, so I’ll be going with that). This one isn’t seen in many Western grocery stores and I think it’s solely because of its color which is not exactly marketable. The only difference is one has seaweed powder added to it and the other does not. The seaweed powder is what gives the black variety its dark gray color. Either way, you will lose weight substituting these noodles in.

How many Carbs are in Shirataki Noodles?

The short and sweet answer is almost close to none but it varies between manufacturers. For the major manufacturers such as Miracle Noodle and Skinny Pasta they’re all zero grams of net carbs and gluten free. As a general rule of thumb, you should always be careful to check the nutrition information found on the back of the package.

How many ways can you cook Shirataki Noodles?

The beauty of these noodles is their versatility. They’re tough, flexible, chewy, and can be used in a variety of ways. You can dry fry, stir fry, make soup out of them and even pizza crust. Yes you heard that right. The possibilities are endless and the only limit is your creativity. If you have a recipe you’d like me to make, feel free to contact me.

How to Cook Shirataki Noodles

Shirataki noodles - black
Print Recipe
3 from 2 votes

How to cook Shirataki Noodles

Look no further. This is how to cook Shirataki Noodles. No more guessing yourself and finally you can remove that smell!
Prep Time5 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Total Time20 mins
Cuisine: diet, keto
Keyword: low carb noodles, shirataki noodles
Servings: 7 people
Calories: 5kcal
Author: Rich

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Open the package and drain liquids out onto strainer.
  • Run cold water over shirataki noodles, rinsing the noodles for about 30 seconds.
  • Then move them to a bowl. Fill up with cold water and let it sit for 2-3 minutes. Then drain out the cold water.
    Optional: Add about a teaspoon of Apple Cider Vinegar, Lemon/Lime juice to bowl to neutralize the smell.
  • Boil water (about 3 pints). Add a pinch of salt. When it comes to a rolling boil, throw shirataki noodles in and let it boil for about 2-3 minutes. Afterwards, strain the noodles.
    strain shirataki
  • Transfer noodles to frying pan. Switch heat on to Medium Low. You will begin hearing crackling sounds or squeaking noise which means the noodles are continuing to cook. Stir for about 2-3 minutes and transfer noodles to a plate.
  • Your noodles are now cooked. Now you can add in the spices and sauces according to your favorite noodle recipes!

Video

Nutrition

Calories: 5kcal

Shirataki Noodles Recipes

In case you haven’t realized, I am an Asian American. That means, noodles are a major part of my diet along with rice and many other Asian staples. When I first found out that having a low carb keto diet meant sacrificing noodles I was at a lost for words. Luckily, upon further research I discovered Shirataki Noodles which have been a major life saver. Here are some of my favorite Shirataki Noodles Recipes.

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Easy Keto Ramen – How to make it yummy and amazing!

by

Say no more to ramen cravings. With this easy Keto ramen recipe, I will show you how to make low carb noodles in as little as 30 minutes. This recipe was made in mind for those who don’t have much time cooking and like to get their dinner out of the way without sacrificing deliciousness. Perfectly fine to be enjoyed either as a main entree or as a side dish.

Last updated: June 29, 2020

This post may contain affiliate links which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you as it helps support my page which is much appreciated!

Quick Links

When I first started keto I had to part ways with so many of my favorite dishes. I also had to say goodbye to a lot of eating out. One of my biggest sacrifices was the ramen bowl. Who can resist that hearty smell of pork broth? I sure couldn’t. Even worse, was smelling it hundreds of yards away at every parking lot and shopping centers. In the Bay Area, ramen shops are a dime a dozen!

Can I eat Ramen on Keto?

The easy, short answer is no. You cannot have ramen on keto simply because of the traditional ingredients used; they are not keto. In order to understand why let’s break down ramen bowls which consists of three major categories of ingredients: (1) Noodles, (2) Flavors, and (3) Toppings. Let’s delve a little deeper.

Traditional Noodles

Like many diets, there are bound to be conflicting pieces of information and confusing language thrown around. Ramen noodles, in all of its tradition, is not keto friendly whatsoever as it is served with noodles made of buckwheat. As a matter of fact, most noodles are not keto friendly which unfortunately includes favorites like the rice noodles used in pho and pad thai. Luckily there are a couple of valid substitutions for keto:

  • Noodles made out of vegetables such as squash or zucchini
  • Shirataki (more on that later)
  • Kelp Noodles

Traditional Ramen Flavors

Traditional ramen in tonkatsu Flavor

Typically ramen comes in 4 styles of flavors:

  1. Shoyu or Soy Sauce in Japanese
  2. Shio or Salt in Japanese
  3. Miso, a paste made from fermented soybeans
  4. Tonkatsu or pork-based broth

By the process of elimination, in a Keto diet, the Miso and the Soy Sauce flavors are not keto as both miso and soy sauce falls within the legume food family. So no to Miso and Shoyu but the good news is that there are substitutions that taste just like soy sauce such as Coconut Aminos that can be switched. That leaves Shio and Tonkatsu which are perfectly fine to eat. In the case of my keto ramen recipe, it is closer to the shoyu flavor.

Traditional Ramen Toppings

Miso Ramen
Tradtional Miso Ramen w/ negi, corn, chashu, ajitsuke tamago, wakame, and menma

Now, the third part of ramen is the toppings. This is the fun part:

ToppingsNet Carbs
Chashu (Pork slices)See Note
Negi (Green Onion) 4 g
Ajitsuke Tamago (Seasoned Egg)See Note
Moyashi (Bean Sprouts)1 g
Menma (Fermented Bamboo Shoots)3 g
Nori (Roasted Seaweed)0 g
Naruto Kamaboko (Fish Cake)3 g
Enoki mushroom5 g
Corn 16 g
Butter0 g
Wakame1 g
Olive oil0 g
Minced Garlic1 g

*Note: Chashu and Ajitsuke Tamago are not whole ingredients therefore their net carbs will depend entirely on its recipe. Traditionally, chashu and ajitsuke tamago are made with non-keto ingredients such as sugar, soy sauce, cooking rice wine, and sake thus Carb calculation would not be possible to list.

Most of the toppings above can be regarded as keto as they are relatively low in carbs (minus the Chashu, ajitsuke tamago, and corn). For the most part, keto allows some possibilities that really depends on your goals, the type of keto you follow (strict, lazy, dirty), and your daily carb intake. But if you are strict, then it’s better to strip away as many processed ingredients as possible.

Today, using my recipe I’ve uncovered a way for all of us keto-holics to enjoy ramen. Sure, it’s not exactly the same as the traditional way but we get the best of both worlds using my recipe.

Are Ramen Noodles Keto Friendly?

Finally, we can answer this question after explaining what traditional ramen is. As mentioned earlier, traditionally and seen in the majority of ramen restaurants throughout the world, ramen noodles are made with wheat flour which is a huge no-no in the keto diet. Fortunately, there are many types of noodles out there made with all kinds of ingredients. As mentioned prior, the ramen noodles (including my recipe) can be substituted for (1) Squash/Zucchini Noodles, (2) Shirataki Noodles, and lastly (3) Kelp Noodles. Out of all these, Shirataki Noodles are the best for this situation which takes us to the next question.

Then, how do I order Keto Ramen?

Inside Hiro Nori

Your best bet is not ordering ramen at all at a restaurant if you’re serious about keto as you don’t really know what these restaurants put in their ramen. Who knows what other non-keto ingredients may be added in the kitchen where you can’t see anything. Fortunately, if you’re on a dirty keto or have a lenient policy, then what I suggest you could do is this:

  • Ask them to replace the noodles with vegetables.
  • Instead of chashu go for the egg instead.
  • Always go with tonkatsu. It’s massively rich in pork fat. This should cover the fat requirements.
  • Skip the ramen altogether and order sides such as edamame, salad, and ask for just the tonkatsu broth on the side.

Just note that not all ramen places do this and you may get a strange look. Just wanted to give you a heads up and don’t say I didn’t warn you.

Are there any substitutions for the Soft Boiled Egg and Keto Chashu?

If you’re even shorter on time, then you can certainly substitute these items for those that are already prepped ahead at your local grocery store. For instance, instead of making the soft boiled eggs, you can purchase hard boiled eggs and for keto chashu, you can purchase smoked uncured bacon. Sure you’ll still have to cook it but there’s no slicing involved which could cut some time off. They won’t taste exactly the same as my recipe but if you’re in a rush, you’re in a rush!

How to Make Easy Keto Ramen Noodles: The Recipe

What You’ll Need

On the package side.
On the produce and meat side.

If you have any questions, leave a comment below or send me a message and I’ll try my best to answer them. Anywho, most of the ingredients I purchase are from retailers that most should have access to such as Amazon, Wholes Food Market, Albertson’s subsidiaries, Walmart, and Kroger.

The Pork Belly is convenient because it’s sold at Wholes Food Market. I just buy half a pound which should be more than enough if you’re making the keto ramen for 2 people. The only item here that maybe difficult to find if you’re in a rural area is the enoki mushrooms. You can find these easily at an Asian Grocery store but if it’s unavailable you can substitute it for Shiitake or Crimini mushrooms.

Keto Ramen
Print Pin
2 from 2 votes

Easy Keto Ramen Noodles

This keto ramen is for anyone on the keto diet looking to shake things up a bit from the usual diet of eggs and avocados.
Course Main Course, Side Dish, Soup
Cuisine American, Japanese
Keyword keto, noodles, ramen, shirataki, soup
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 2
Calories 606.9kcal
Author Rich

Ingredients

For Broth

Keto Chashu

Toppings

  • 1 Stalk Green Onion
  • 2 Soft Boiled Egg 1 egg for each serving
  • 1 Stalk Bok Choy or 100 grams of Bok Choy
  • 40 grams Enoki Mushroom
  • 2 pieces Roasted Nori
  • 1 tbsp MCT Oil optional. Can also use coconut or more olive oil. 1 TBSP per serving.
  • 1 tspn Minced Garlic

Noodles

Instructions

Prep the broth

  • Gather ingredients and set up like so.
    Keto Ramen Broth Ingredients
  • Crush 2 cloves of garlic and a knob of ginger. Chop off the scallion root end, cut off about 1.5 inch of the scallion stalk, and slice the rest. Dispose the root end, hold on to the green slices for the toppings part of recipe.
    Keto Ramen crushed Ingredients
  • Pour 4 cups of Bone Broth into pot, then pour in coconut aminos. Put crushed garlic, scallion stalk, and crushed ginger in Bone Broth.
    Keto Ramen Broth
  • Heat pot on medium-high. Once it boils, lower temperature to low and let simmer until noodles and toppings are ready. Add salt to taste.

Soft Boiled Eggs

  • In another pot, put eggs in it. Fill pot up with cool water, add a pinch of salt (I used Pink Himalayan Salt), then place on stove top to boil. Once water comes to a rolling boil, shut off heat. Place lid on pot and let it sit for 5 minutes. Once 5 minutes is up, drain hot water and run cold water over the eggs. Fill pot with cold water to let it cool down (about 10 minutes). Once cooled, peel eggs and cut in half.
    Boiling Eggs

Blanch the veggies

  • Gather the Bok Choy and Enoki Mushrooms. Trim the Bok Choy stem off and chop off the root end of the enoki mushroom as pictured. Then, in rolling boiled water, put veggies in for 2 minutes. Remove and let cool. Your veggies are ready.
    Blanched Veggies

Prep the Shirataki Noodles

  • Remove shirataki noodles from package and let it freshen up in cool water for about 20 seconds.
  • Boil water in another pot. Once it comes to a rolling boil put shirataki noodles in for about 2 minutes and then transfer over to strainer. Run cold water over it to let it cool. Then place the noodles on a frying pan and let it dry over medium heat for about 2 minutes.
    Pro tip: If you're great at multitasking you can combine the shirataki noodles and veggie blanching steps together instead of having to boil water twice.
    Cooking Shirataki Noodles
  • Still having trouble and what to do with that fishy smell? Check out my detailed instructions on how to cook shirataki noodles.

"Keto Chashu"

  • Slice pork belly to about 1 cm each and gather ingredients like so.
    Keto Chashu ingredients
  • Heat skillet or frying pan to medium high. In about 1.5 minutes, the pan is ready. Put in olive oil. Let oil warm (about 1 minute). Add in pork belly one slice at a time, turning once.
    Keto Chashu
  • When both sides are brown (3-4 minutes); stir in coconut amino and apple cider vinegar. Stir so pork belly absorbs the flavors. Remove from heat and let dry on paper towel.
    Pro tip: Be careful of oil splattering. Purchase a Splatter Guard to prevent any burns.
    Keto Chashu

Style your Bowl!

  • You're now ready to make your bowl! Gather ingredients like so.
    Keto Ramen Toppings
  • Grab a bowl. Place toppings (Keto Chashu, Nori, minced garlic, scallions, bok choi, enoki mushrooms, and soft boiled egg) on top of the shirataki noodles.
    Dry Keto Ramen
  • Ladle the broth onto the bowl.
    Keto Ramen soup
  • Enjoy!

Notes

Nutrition info is approximate using the sparkpeople.com recipe calculator, and the carb count does not count sugar alcohols. It is your responsibility to check the accuracy of all nutritional facts posted here, especially if you have a medical condition, in which case you should consult with your doctor before using any of the recipes.

Nutrition

Serving: 2g | Calories: 606.9kcal | Carbohydrates: 13.1g | Protein: 31.7g | Fat: 45.5g | Saturated Fat: 22.9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 14.9g | Cholesterol: 209.8mg | Sodium: 694.3mg | Potassium: 266mg | Fiber: 3.1g | Sugar: 4.9g
MADE THIS RECIPE?Let’s see it! Tag @chowyoulater and #chowyoulater
Nutrition Facts
Easy Keto Ramen Noodles
Amount Per Serving (2 g)
Calories 606.9 Calories from Fat 410
% Daily Value*
Fat 45.5g70%
Saturated Fat 22.9g143%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.4g
Monounsaturated Fat 14.9g
Cholesterol 209.8mg70%
Sodium 694.3mg30%
Potassium 266mg8%
Carbohydrates 13.1g4%
Fiber 3.1g13%
Sugar 4.9g5%
Protein 31.7g63%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

MADE THIS RECIPE?
Lets see it! Tag @chowyoulater on Instagram and hashtag it #chowyoulater

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My Srasa Kitchen Review

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Srasa Kitchen Sweet Potatoes

[4.49/5] In case you didn’t know, I’ve been getting fat. Like real fat. All the times I’ve gone out to eat has taken a toll on me and I’ve been trying to find more healthy options. This doesn’t mean I’ve stopped eating “unhealthy”, it just means I am being more cautious of what I consume. Perhaps, healthy eating on weekdays and fatting out on weekends is the plan. Today is a weekday so let’s discuss Srasa Kitchen.  

Food (65%) 
Taste to price 4.5/5
Quality to price 4.5/5
Portion to price 5/5
Average = 4.67

Service (20%)  
Friendliness 3/5
Promptness 5/5
Average = 4

Cleanliness (15%) 
Bathroom 4/5
Dining area 4.5/5
Kitchen area 4.5/5
Average = 4.33

Overall Score = [F(.65)]+[S(.20)]+C(.15)]
 = [3.04]+[0.8]+[0.65] 
 = 4.49

The Pluses…  

+ Let me get this off my chest, I’m probably killing them! I’m burning a huge hole into their COGS lol. I’m the customer that takes all the freebies (ie veggies and toppings) maximizing my dollar. 
+ Frikken clean! Both the kitchen and the dining area. They do a really good job maintaining the restaurant. Kudos to the staff. If you told me they opened yesterday, I would believe you. That’s how clean it is.
+ The ASSEMBLY PROCESS is efficient and fast! They’re set up like Chipotle so you go in and pick what you want, then checkout. 
+ MENU is easy to follow. If you’re indecisive, then you won’t have to worry. There’s a few protein choices and if you’re unsure about the veggies, get all of them! If you’re even more unsure, go with one of the FIXED BOWLS coined “Inspired Bowls”. 
+ Very VEGETARIAN friendly. Not sure about Vegan. 

The Negs…

– PARKING can be an issue if you come during peak hours. The parking lot is just too small for this strip to accommodate all the businesses. 
– This is a CASHLESS BUSINESS. No cash is accepted here. Easy for the business, but can be an inconvenience for the customers. 
– Restaurant HOURS. Be aware they’re closed during the weekends. There’s been plenty of times I’ve rolled up and found the closed signed staring at my face. And I stare back with the saddest of sad faces.

In Conclusion…

If you’re like me looking for a healthy lunch then look no further. Srasa Kitchen delivers exactly that. Opening during the weekdays and closing on weekends, it’s pretty clear who they’re mainly marketing to, corporate workers nearby looking for some healthy, fast grub. They don’t fail in this department. And in case you’re wondering “Srasa” means fresh in the Cambodian language setting up their brand identity right from the get go. For me, as long as their food stays “Srasa” I’ll keep coming back. This is one of the many reasons to come here. 

#ChowYouLater

  • For more information on Srasa Kitchen you can visit their website at www.srasakitchen.com located at 225 E Middlefield Rd, Mountain View, CA 94043

My Halal Gyro Express Review

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[4.04/5] I get around. By that, I mean I’ve been getting around restaurants for lunch hours. What I look for is the perfect mix of protein, veggies, and carbs without breaking the bank. Weekday lunches are key to staying healthy and disciplined for whatever diet/fitness/fiscal plan you’re on. With all of that said, that mindset brought me to Halal Gyro Express.

Food (65%) 
Taste to price 4.5/5
Quality to price 4.5/5
Portion to price 4.5/5
Average = 4.5

Service (20%)  
Friendliness 3/5
Promptness 4/5
Average = 3.5

Cleanliness (15%) 
Bathroom n/a
Dining area 2.5/5
Kitchen area 3/5
Average = 2.75

Overall Score = [F(.65)]+[S(.20)]+C(.15)]
 = [2.93]+[0.7]+[0.41] 
 = 4.04

The Pluses…  

+ Nice, visual MENU. As soon as you walk in to order, you’ll see a huge colorful menu hanging up on the wall. Even better? The images are of their real dishes so there are no surprises. What you see is what you get.
+ Superb VALUE. I like to keep my lunches around $10-$12 so naturally my eyes will gravitate towards the entrees within that price range. By process of elimination, #7 1x LAMB TIKKA, 1x CHICKEN TIKKA, w/ RICE & SALAD is my go-to since it has a little bit of everything. At $10.99, that is a steal of a deal. There so much to like about this dish. Flavorful and packed with lots of Afghan spices. 
+ They didn’t have to do this but I found it a kind gesture of them to bring the food to you instead of yelling the number out at the counter for you to pick it up.

The Negs…

– Could be cleaner. At times when you walk in, there are people’s leftover trays and plates on the table. The staff tries their best to keep it clean but it gets so busy they don’t get the chance to.
– The FOOD TEMP could be hotter. It’s happened more than once, so I’m pretty sure it’s how they intend on serving it. 
– Not really the restaurant’s fault but the PARKING can get packed during lunch hours. I’ve seen people park on the Nicholson and walking over so you have to factor that into your time. 

In Conclusion…

“Express” would be the perfect word I’d use to describe a restaurant like this. There’s a NY feel to it but at the same time, it’s embraced the Silicon Valley culture. The concept is simple. You go in, order your food, and go out. All set. Mission completed. No frills, thrills, spills or hassles. What you see is what you get. For that reason, Halal Gyro Express has become one of my go to restaurants for lunch.  

#ChowYouLater

My World Wrapps 2.0 Review

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[4.62/5] I’m in a conundrum ya’ll. I don’t like salad, I don’t like eating “healthy”, and I don’t want to have to pay an arm and a leg for quality ingredients but I need to lose weight especially when summer’s coming up. Lol I try not to look at the scale but I’m pretty sure I’ve ballooned into a big ball of lard. When cooking at home isn’t an option and time at a premium, what is there to do? Not trying to sound like an ad but the solution is World Wrapps.

Food (65%)
Taste to price 4.5/5
Quality to price 5/5
Portion to price 4.5/5
Average = 4.67

Service (20%)  
Friendliness 4.5/5
Promptness 4.5/5
Average = 4.5

Cleanliness (15%)
Bathroom 4.5/5
Dining area 4.5/5
Kitchen area 4.5/5
Average = 4.5

Overall Score = [F(.65)]+[S(.20)]+C(.15)]= [3.04]+[0.9]+[0.68]
= 4.62

The Pluses…  

+ Great MENU. The average ticket price is probably around $12.50. There’s something for everyone. It doesn’t matter what your diet needs are, they have a item for you. In addition, there’s a kid’s and drink menu.  

+ REWARDS PROGRAM coined the WW Perks. Some of these wraps and bowls can get pricey but the good thing about it are their rewards system. You get a free bowl/wrap every 8th visit. If you’re like me, this can be done within a week lol.

+ QUALITY. Just look at the list of ingredients on the menu. When I see quinoa, brown rice, and avocado I’m thinking quality and the best part are their prices. They’re pretty good when considering what actually goes in these wraps.

+ Well developed RECIPES with their own spin. Equally impressive are their understanding for ethnic foods. They could easily water it down with fillers like corn, carrots, and potatoes but nope they did their research. For example, a Vietnamese wrap contains mint, cucumber, glass noodles, etc. you know the things that makes it Vietnamese. Kudos!

+ HOUSE FLATBREAD. You gotta try it. I’ve never tasted flatbread like that before. It’s fresh, chewy (the good chewy), and warm. You see them throwing them into the press which I appreciate because you see the work put into it.

+ CUSTOMER SERVICE. The staff actually enjoys each others’ company and are happily there to greet and serve you. I like that they go to every table asking how the meal was. That doesn’t even happen at some of the upscale restaurants I’ve been to.

+ CLEAN. Again, kudos to the staff. I noticed the staff checking on the bathroom every so often to make sure it’s spotless. Good job guys!

The Negs…

– No major negatives here.

In Conclusion…

There’s a lot to rave about World Wrapps. Seriously, this is my kind of place and they earned themselves a loyal customer. The customer service is on point and the food is made in a way that’s enjoyable for those who aren’t fans of salad. As mentioned, there’s something for everyone whether you’re on a vegetarian, paleo, keto, gluten-free diet, it’s all there. Because of this, it’s easy for me to keep coming back because I get to lose weight without compromising taste.

#ChowYouLater


My Chicken Meets Rice Review (Santa Clara)

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[4/5] Chicken Meets Rice (CMR) meets Rich. This marks my first SF Bay restaurant review. I spent the last couple of months getting acclimated and adjusting to the local lifestyle. The Asian food here blows Boston out of the water so rather than giving every place 5 stars, I had to adjust accordingly. 

Food (65%) 
Taste to price 4/5
Quality to price 4/5
Portion to price 4/5
Average = 4

Service (20%)  
Friendliness 4/5
Promptness 4/5
Average = 4

Cleanliness (15%) 
Bathroom n/a
Dining area 4/5
Kitchen area 4/5
Average = 4

Overall Score = [F(.65)]+[S(.20)]+C(.15)]
 = [2.6]+[0.8]+[0.6] 
 = 4

The Pluses…  
+ Great Lunch MENU! Minimalized and simple. It’s just fried or poached chicken. On salad, brown or white rice. Simple, easy, quick decisions to be made.
+ The POACHED CHICKEN. You have to try it. The texture of the meat is amazingly tender. The taste is what chicken is supposed to taste like and complementing the rice perfectly. Comforting in every way. Mmmmm.
+ OPTIONS. Surprisingly for such a simple menu, there are many ways to customize your order. You can go no/with skin, white/dark meat, and there’s even a tofu option for veggie lovers. CMR doesn’t leave anyone behind. 
+ SAUCES! I have a confession to make, I’m a sauce man and not just any sauce, but the right sauce for the right moment. CMR has allows this to happen. My musts are the SWEET CHILI and the SAVORY GINGER. 
+ COMPLIMENTARY BROTH where the condiments and utensils are. Take advantage of this. 
+ QUICK SERVICE. You get your order within minutes. 

The Negs…
– At $10.95 I want to see another group of veggies. The meal already comes with carrots and cucumber but why not add a cherry tomato, a slice of lotus, daikon, anything really. One more veggie could make a big difference in value. 
– Not a dealbreaker but you gotta have CHOPSTICKS. I can’t believe I’m bringing this one up, but these rice meals are perfect for chopsticks. Yes, there’s a difference between stabbing and grabbing 🙂 

The Neutrals…
o The poached chicken here is what makes this place truly special. To be honest, if you cook at home often, you can buy the chicken @ $3.50 to go, take a bunch of sauces with you, and make a home version for much cheaper. Just cook rice and add your favorite veggies. That is, if you have the luxury.

In Conclusion…
It’s easy to see why this is my kind of restaurant. It offers a balanced diet in the major food groups. The restaurant knows exactly what it is and doesn’t try to conform to others. 9 out of 10 times I’ll go with the poached chicken. I haven’t needed a reason to try the fried chicken. With all that said, this makes a highly desired destination for your lunch break making it repeatable time and time again. Chicken Meets Rice, now that I’ve met you I think I want to take our relationship to the next level. Call me, maybe?

#ChowYouLater

  • Chicken Meets Rice Bowl
  • Chicken Meets Rice Wall

My Amazon Go Review: 7-Eleven killer?

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It wasn’t long ago Amazon Go opened their first fleet of cashless, automated stores boasting the absence of lines and checkouts… forever. I happened to be in San Francisco looking for food and walking by, Amazon Go caught my attention to pop in. Here are my raw unfiltered thoughts.

Products

This is where the two sees the most differences. Both sell similar packaged drinks and snacks, but the main differences lie in their ready to eat meals. You can say Amazon Go is a little more niche placing an emphasis on gourmet, healthy, international-friendly foods from local kitchens. They also carry meal kits for those wanting to skip the grocery stores. On the other hand, 7-Elevens are packed with iconic, American foods such as hot dogs, pizza, wings, and Slurpees. It’s pretty clear what demographics these stores are targeting. This one is more of a personal choice so objectively, it’s a wash. Tied.

Prices

I’m not overly price sensitive especially when I need to purchase something out of urgency or convenience so I will have to say the price differences did not jump at me immediately. Obviously these are convenient store prices, hence paying a little extra compared to a Walmart. The prices also reflect the products itself. For instance, a sandwich made of mass produced ham and cheddar cheese will obviously be cheaper than one with lamb kebabs and feta. As mentioned earlier, some of the products are different. I ‘m going to consider this one a wash, but if you have contrary beliefs, please comment and let me know.

Customer Service, or lack of?

When you walk in, immediately, there is a greeter to assist you with any questions. There was another person sitting down in the dining area dressed in all black. Til’ this day I’m not sure what his position was but I’ll guess a hybrid of security and manager: too helpful and friendly to be security, yet too casual to be a manager. It’s not yet known whether Amazon plans on going staffless but based on the current number of personnel, it’s going to be a wash here between the 7-Eleven and Amazon Go customer service. It’s not like people go into these convenient stores expecting white glove service which leads to the next point.

Speediness

Everything sounds cool right? Well, not exactly. You have to download their Amazon Go app to enter. I’ll admit it was a tedious process having to search the app, download, and then remember my Amazon password. In theory, if you already downloaded the application then speed goes to Amazon Go. I don’t even think it’s arguable. You literally can walk in, grab, and go. There is no false advertising here. Speediness goes to Amazon Go.

Cleanliness

Not really much to discuss here. Both places are well maintained and spotless clean. I will say that presentation-wise, Amazon Go does a great job stocking and merchandising their inventory. Because of the ceiling high shelves, it gives this impression of a fully stocked store as opposed to the Gondola Shelving used in the 7-Eleven stores. Kudos to the Amazon Go design team. I digress, in terms of cleanliness it’s a tie here.

Amenities

What? No Amazon Lockers and what about Red Box? Most 7-Elevens are also open 24 hours a day. 7-Eleven gets this one purely for more amenities. Amazon Go has a dining area though. Again, different markets, different needs. Amenities goes to 7-Eleven.

Note: One can argue whether a cashless feature is an amenity or not. Look up: Philadelphia, the first city to ban cashless businesses. I recognize the pros and cons but the fact is that it limits people. By going cashless, it’s Amazon’s way of saying they prefer a certain customer base, their base.

So will it Replace 7-Elevens?

Sneaky, sneaky. Amazon, always picking fights. First battling it out against department stores, then again on the US Postal Service, groceries, and now convenient stores. You see where this is going right? World Domination.

Amazon isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. They plan to open thousands more by 2021. It’s yet to be determined if Amazon Go has a place in our society but I will say it’s worth checking out. Amazon has always evolved with the changing times and I expect the stores to do the same.

Ultimately, the way Amazon Go currently stands today, I don’t think it can replace 7-Eleven but rather, co-exist together. After some quick analysis, it’s pretty clear these two are targeting different markets. Amazon Go for your corporate on the go commuter and 7-Eleven for the general mass.

2 Restaurants in San Jose you should visit and why

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Restaurants to visit San Jose Feature Image

One thing about me is I enjoy finding hidden gems. I think most people follow the same protocol when it comes to selecting new restaurants. If it’s not word of mouth from a trusted source, then you know you’re going to Yelp for reviews, pictures, and distance. I’m no different.

As you all know I’ve recently moved to the Bay Area. I had to get acclimated pretty quick. Afterall, I’m the type that favors routine and rhythm for my day’s work. Lunch, to me, can be annoying especially when all cylinders are clicking. The worst thing is when I’m hearing the wild animal known as my stomach growling and doing circus tricks to get satiated. And when it’s loud enough the neighbors hear, then I deserve every dirty look at that point. So I go on Yelp and as I’m searching, two restaurants stuck out the most. They are what I coin as the Restaurant Unicorns.

The San Jose Restaurant Unicorn(s)

As far as I’m concerned, The Restaurant Unicorn most likely despises cold weather and Boston accents so much they’ve migrated far, far away because I haven’t seen any back in Bawwwwston. Let me tell you the requirements for such a feat and why it’s rare:

Out of 3778 Restaurants in San Jose, only 2 restaurants have 5 stars with 150+ Reviewers.

Sure there were other 5 Star Restaurants (I counted 26) but most of them had under 50 reviews which doesn’t hold much weight since most of the time they’re written by friends and family. I also checked for fake reviews, you and I both know what they look like, and most of them appear legit. Factoring in the number of Yelp Elites reviewing the spots, it’s pretty clear to me these restaurants are serious. Let’s identify these two restaurants.

1.) ACHILLES, 2521 Newhall St. Santa Clara, CA 95050

5 Star Yelp Image of Achilles
As of 3/5/19

Named as Yelp’s 9th best place to eat in the US, Achilles has been one of my favorite go-to spots for lunch. This is a fast casual, Build Your Own (BYO) Middle Eastern Restaurant. When you walk in, it’s easy to see why as you are greeted and the workers seem to look like they give a 5h!t. It’s clean, fully staffed, and most importantly the owner is there. Always at the cash register with a smile and asking how your day is. I can name only a handful of restaurants that does this. The food has got be one the Bay Area’s best value. For lunch, the number one feature I look for is the variety of ingredients and how well balanced the food groups are between veggies, grains, and proteins. This one knocks it out of the park.

One of the biggest draws is their menu. Step 2 Add Complimentary Items is what makes Achilles stand out. I sometimes go HAM and tell them I want everything, afterall I’m just a poor kid from Boston. Can you spare me some change?

Image by Mathew C. via Yelp

Not sure what to order? I was when I first went in. Don’t worry I got you. My go-to order is:

  1. Plate – half rice, half salad.
  2. Hummus, Mixed Greens, Onions, Cucumbers, Cole Slaw, Spicy Sauce, Achilles Spread.
  3. Always go with the ACHILLES Chicken*

*Always order the Achilles Chicken which, fun fact, has been marinated in 16 different spices. One bite in and you can really taste it.

2.) Snack Corner, 70 Saratoga Ave. Santa Clara, CA 95051

5 Star Yelp Image of Snack Corner
*As of 3/5/19
Image by Phil I. via Yelp

Snack Corner may not have 600 reviews but they’ve got some mileage having been around since 2016 which makes their 5 star review pretty remarkable, withstanding the test of time. I suspect they’ve been winning customers one at a time in good old organic fashion. I mean, you don’t see a website nor any kind of marketing and there’s not even a sign for customers to locate this place. I’ve concluded that the marketing has been spread through word of mouth evident in their Yelp reviews.

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Eat your omega-3s! 🐟

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Snack Corner serves mainly Japanese, Korean bento style boxes and maki rolls. These boxes are made fresh with an assortment of sides such as salad, pickled veggies, and croquette made with the kind of care you’d expect from a friend. I say that because when you walk in you’ll meet the owner, cook, cashier, and server who happen to be one person. Yep, the owner does it all and as you wait for the food, it’s almost like you’ve been invited to a buddy’s house for dinner, conversing and watching your meal made.

You can’t go wrong with any of the bento boxes as you get to sample a little bit of everything. The prices may seem high initially but once you factor in the fresh ingredients, the made to order service, and the likeability of the owner you’ll understand why the price is set that way. Seriously, come down and you’ll understand the rave reviews. It’s literally a one man show.

In Conclusion

They’re not fancy, both small and found in somewhat odd locations. They’re not crazy expensive and the owners run the business during all hours of operation and beyond. A large chunk of their life is dedicated to their craft and it shows in the food.

Although, it’s yet to be determined whether these restaurants can maintain its illustrious 5 star rating (I’m rooting for them), as most end up dropping their scores thanks in part to articles like this that raises the expectations for readers but in reality, I’m telling you to be mindful. Eat with your heart and not your brain.

And if you were to use your brain, think about the value in each meal. Think of what you’re really getting at that price point. Can you find a restaurant that matches the price? These are not restaurants owned by a boardroom of investors, they’re family owned. They have heart and if you’re a struggling restaurant owner, these 2 restaurants are a good place to start for note keeping. If you’re a food venture, look no further.

If I missed any other unicorn restaurants, comment below and I’ll be more than happy to make a visit! For real time check-ins and reviews follow me on my Yelp.

#chowyoulater

Boston vs San Francisco Bay Area Restaurants

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Boston vs San Francisco

Why am I even comparing Boston and San Francisco (Boston vs San Francisco) is what you’re probably wondering. Well, the most obvious is because I’ve relocated and secondly, I found them sharing more commonalities than differences. For instance, both are on the coast featuring breath taking beaches, tech companies, high costs of living, and ridiculous amounts of traffic. Yes, that’s a thing. Boston was recently awarded the the worst traffic in the US. With so many similarities you’d think they were long lost twins like the Benedict Brothers. In addition, I want to say I feel like a part of history being amongst the groups of people to have made the westward journey circa 1849. I’m gonna strike gold one day dammit!

Besides the most obvious (like weather), I’ve been able to observe and experience nuances between the two cities. You’d be shocked to find how detail oriented I am. Let’s be real though, I’m not here to discuss the differences in PH values of water, the CO2 in air quality, or coastal sediment levels. I’ll spare you the micro hyper details. I’m here to discuss FOOD! 

Taken from my reviewing format, I’ll go over the differences I’ve found in Food, Service, and Cleanliness.

i. Boston vs San Francisco: Restaurant Foods

The Bay Area has one of the most diverse populations in the states. Naturally, with so much competition restaurants will bring out their best. With rent being so high and other factors playing a key role into a restaurant’s success, it’s not difficult to see why San Francisco is really a city like no other and in a class by itself when it comes to small businesses. These restaurants staying around longer are really the crème of the crop.

The Unicorn of Restaurants

I hate to refer to Yelp for reliable statistics but I’ve seen a few 5 star restaurants in the area. You can check out an article on that coming soon (link to be added). In all of my years in Boston, I have yet to find what I’ll coin the Unicorn Restaurant where one has 5 stars from over 100 reviews. It just doesn’t happen. Here in the Bay Area, there were a few unicorn sightings.

Ahhhhhh Sebastian

I’ve also began grocery shopping to fatten my kitchen and right away, I saw a difference in the variety of produce. Let’s make it fair and compare HMarts to HMarts, Whole Foods to Whole Foods, and Safeway (CA’s Grocer) to Star Market (MA’s Grocer)*. When walking in, immediately you will see the differences in groceries. There is just so much more the bay area has to offer. I saw fruits and veggies I’ve never heard of in my life. Like what the hell is Pummelo and Romanesco Broccoli??? And don’t even get me started with the Seafood Section of HMart. When I walked into the San Jose location I thought I saw a massacre of the Finding Nemo and Little Mermaid cast (I think Sebastian deserved better Disney!). For dry goods, cheese, and anything else its about the same on both coasts. Variety of produce goes to SF.

Dancing Noodles though

Next, I have to comment on the diversity of cuisines. Boston has the Italian Restaurants, Breweries, Pubs, Icecream, Pizza, and Seafood Shacks on lock. I’m going to be bias and say no other city can come close to those groups of foods. But the Bay area has, oh, so many Asian foods from Chinese province specific cuisines (like dancing noodles) I’ve never heard of to the more common favorites like ramen, pho, and sushi. Add in Hawaiian and Filipino Cuisines you rarely see in Boston and I think I’d have to go with the bay.

Warping packages?

With rising costs of rent and labor, the prices in the Bay area will jump and strangle you. Some of these restaurants have to find questionable, I mean, creative ways to keep costs down. From package warping to portion shrinking it’s really a shame such a beautiful city has to resort to this. I get it, that’s a whole ‘nother conversation above our powers. It is what it is! Pound for pound and ounces to ounces the dollar in Boston gets you a little more. This one’s easy. Boston takes this one.

*In case you’re wondering, Albertson’s owns both Safeway and Star Market. If you’ve ever walked into both, they are eerily similar from the layout to the dry foods carried.

ii. Boston vs San Francisco: Restaurant Service

Maybe it’s the sun or the avocados grown here but man people are a lot more friendly. I can’t tell you how many small talks I’ve had with strangers from the checkout line at Ikea to conversations at the urinal. People are just nicer here. I can’t say all my experiences have been pleasant but for the most part, staff is extra friendly and attentive. If you’ve ever walked into an In-N-Out Burger, you’ll know exactly what I’m referring to. Compare that with a place like Boston’s UBurger… Let’s just say adding an F in front of the U is more fitting. To be fair, FU in Bostonese is “Hey man, I love you, how can I help you?” It’s a term of endearment.

Despite the friendly service, I will say it comes with a small drawback. Service can be slow in San Fran. Not as slow as some of the Southern states but slower compared to anything in the East Coast. Where I come from, it’s common to be rushed by the restaurant as they want you out the door to cut the waiting times. People are hangry and cold, I get it! If you’ve ever been to a Dunkin Donuts, one glance at the line will tell you that everyone not only owns a watch but love staring at it. The slogan is “America Runs on Dunkin”, they don’t walk. Boston gets this one for promptness.

iii. Boston vs San Francisco: Restaurant Cleanliness

I know, this one’s not fair but we’re having a battle between the two areas. When you’re in a city of 4 seasons and a large majority travel on foot, over years and maybe decades, restaurants and establishments will lose their shine no matter how maintained it is. Think of all the yellow colored snow getting dragged into these restaurants! Throw in winter fatigue, sprinkle in a little bit of seasonal depression, and you’ll understand why there’s a Boston Mob. On the other hand, San Francisco has a poop epidemic. Go figure! Restaurant cleanliness goes to San Francisco by a slight margin.

Let’s Review: Boston vs San Francisco Breakdown

Boston vs San Francisco Restaurant Breakdown

There you have it. We made it! The score is a lot closer than it looks, I promise. Hopefully I didn’t offend my fellow Bostonians to the point of never coming back. Boston will always be my home. There is no place like it. I’ve earned my stars and stripes surviving years of frozen temperatures and horrendous drivers. These are my honest opinions (keyword: opinion) as someone born and raised in New England. Afterall, the geography may change but the spirit will always be around. You can take the boy out d Havahd Yahd but you can’t take d Havahd Yahd out the boy and Boston sports will always be greater than __________ (insert any city here). Are we cool now? And San Francisco, you’re all right with me 🙂

If you have any recommendations or places you want me to try. Feel free to leave some comments and I’ll give you my two cents on the matter.

Every Bay I’m Hustlin’

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Every Bay I'm Hustlin'

From the Bay State to the Bay Area. Every Bay has it’s day? All Bay, every bay! YOBO, You Only Bay Once!

I can keep going with these expressions all day and the longer I go, the cheesier it gets. Don’t tempt me. Trust me, just don’t. Nevertheless, you’re probably wondering where I’ve been. My blog’s been quiet, like unusually silent. There hasn’t been a review since December 2018.

One Cold Boston Day
My last memory of Boston. The view from my window.

First, let me address the rumors.

No, I did not die from this year’s winter nor was I kidnapped by a gang of spice-deprived sasquatches. Now that I got that off my chest, the correct answer is that I’ve moved from the mean, cobblestone streets of Boston to the always sunny “hella” blocks of Silicon Valley. In other words, in the last month I’ve made one of the most difficult moves by the modern man, migrating from the one coast to another. Let me walk you through the workload:

  • Liquidating my former apartment. I have new found respect for defunct(ing) companies like Brookstone and Toys R Us. I just thought it was a matter of throwing crap away and selling things at dirt cheap prices.
  • Shipping my car out. That wasn’t the hardest part. The most difficult was finding the right carrier. After word got out, millions of them started flooding my inbox. Let’s not forget to mention the anxiety associated with not knowing whether, Olivia (my car’s name), was going to arrive in one piece or not.
  • Saying my byes to friends and family. I was born and raised in New England so you know the quality of these ties are just a tad deeper than Tom from MySpace. Sorry Tom!
  • Packing up. I had to dig deep, like so deep Marie Kondo visited my nightmares, I mean, dreams. She told me, exactly, what ought to spark joy for me to throw into my suitcases.
  • Trying not to be homeless. In other words, trying to find a roof over my head and not having to worry about dropping soap in the showers or having to battle any trolls for a good spot under the bridge.

Mind you, while all the above was going on I had to balance work, survive another harsh New England weather, and attend the usual year end festivities.

And finally

On move-out day, mother nature decided to be a little dramatic and froze Boston to an arctic 4 degrees FML Fahrenheit. I was fortunate I didn’t bust my behind, loading the car. You should have seen the look of my face when I landed and saw this.

Sierra Vista
Ahhh, God’s land. One of the perks moving to Norcal.

Since Arrival…

I would be making you all proud of me. I’ve been eating out way more than I should and the scale hasn’t been nice ever since. Not having the ability to cook will do that afterall, which means some great things to come for this blog. The past weeks, I’ve been Kobayashi eating everything in site. The variety of cuisines here never ends and there are new cuisines for me to tackle which reminds me. Since I am no longer physically in Boston, Chowyoulater will shift gears and focus on the San Francisco Bay Area. I can’t wait to show you the best places to eat!

In the next few days

I will post my food adventures in the Bay Area. Reviews will come much later. I will need time to adjust to the Bay Area’s dining experience since it isn’t fair to compare. Afterall, I built this blog to be an honest guide for locals and visitors. I will always abide by my rating system. In the meantime, check on my Yelp Page and Instagram for my most up to date outings. Til then,

#chowyoulater

-Rich