Afuri
Passing over the likes of London and New York, Afuri – one of Tokyo’s renowned ramen chains – opened its first foreign outpost in Portland, whose soft water came closest to that procured in Japan.
One location quickly turned into two, both serving the signature yuzu shio ramen with chicken broth (‘chintan’). In contrast to the significantly thicker ‘paitan’ (pork broth used in tonkotsu ramen), chintan is much more delicate and nuanced, which is achieved through a “layering” of flavours at low cooking temperatures; Afuri lists both kinds on its menu.
There are, reportedly, only three individuals in the entire Afuri franchise who know the exact ingredients of the tare used to season their yuzu shio. The tare’s secret is a carefully guarded one, but you can savour it in action across several kinds of bowls, all of which come with hand-made noodles.
The menu extends to include surprising many items, such as sushi and nigiri, plus the easy-to-love “chef’s spoons,” miniature samples of the seasonal menu.
Adresse: 923 SE 7th Ave, Portland
Telefon: +1 971 386 2945
Åpningstider: Mon–Thu 4–10pm, Fri 11:30am–10pm, Sat 11:30am–9pm, Sun 11:30am–10pm