I love Japanese food!  From the colorful presentation to the various flavors and some “exotic” ingredients.  And one of my all-time favorite Japanese dishes is the ramen—and we’re so lucky to have found a relatively new spot specializing in one: Ramen Nagi (ラーメン凪).

It was not planned at all when we found ourselves in Ramen Nagi, SM Aura Premier Branch at Bonifacio Global City.  I’ve been craving for some good noodles for quite some time so it was a delightful twist of fate.  Since it was our first time, we didn’t know what to order, but by the name of the store it was obvious what they specialize in—ramen.

As much as we wanted to have a bowl of each ramen variant, we can only succumb to our mere mortal stomach’s limitations, and have a bowl each.  Our first order of course had to be their signature Original King (Butao), and another one a bit more “exotic”—the Black King (Kuroo).

To place your order, you’re given an Omotenashi sheet or order form where you can specify exactly how you want your ramen, and what other add-ons you’d like.  If you’re as clueless as we were, I’d suggest you stick with “Chef Recommendation.”

Doesn’t the Butao just look absolutely delicious?  And it really is—the broth is really good, there’s generous servings of mushrooms and leeks, and the meat (chashu) is really tender.  Ramen Nagi describes it as “award-winning tonkotsu pork-broth prepared in the traditional method, mouth-wateringly rich, fresh, and aromatic; special handcrafted noodles and classic Nagi pork chashu.”  I can’t possibly describe it any better than that!

On the other hand, the Kuroo seems “exotic” because of its color, but it is nothing to be afraid of and this color actually drew me to try it.  Ramen Nagi describes it as “fragrant blackened garlic and calamari ink in a silky broth with succulent chashu; finished with a ball of minced pork, black sesame and Nagi spices that is irresistibly complex.”  I describe it as “black love”—an instant favorite for me!  Likewise, the chashu is consistently tender.  The black ball in the middle has some interestingly soft texture and its flavor is not so overwhelming even if you eat big portions.

Foodie Tip: I find the “normal” noodle firmness a little too firm so you may want to try it “soft”

Two bowls of ramen may not be enough (yes, I want more! :D) to fully appreciate what Ramen Nagi has to offer, but it’s enough for me to give them my recommendation!  Two thumbs up!  There are several ramen varieties to choose from, you can customize how you want your ramen, serving size is big, and waiting time is not that long.  The only not-so-positive part about our dining experience in their SM Aura Premier Branch is that it’s so packed we were seated beside strangers on the same table, and you feel like you’re eating in a public market because of the noise.  But those are pretty petty if good ramen is what you’re looking for!  I can’t wait to return and have my next bowl!  おいしい 😀