Time to revisit the well-regarded spot after my scathing 2021 review.
I gave the highly-rated Ramen Danbo a negative review in the summer of 2021. That experience was in the middle of Covid, so I had to give it’s Capitol Hill location another try. I’m glad I did, because things have greatly improved.
The first positive change was the paper form provided to specify details of your ramen, including noodle firmness, spice level and richness of broth. This form, which some Japan-sourced ramen restaurants provide, is always a welcome addition. A staffer informed me that the order forms have only been available the last year and a half.
I arrived on a cold but sunny winter afternoon for lunch and the place was mostly full. Danbo specializes in Hakata or Fukuouka-style tonkotsu ramen, and I ordered the basic bowl. When it arrived I could see the preparation was true to form, as it appeared very much like the Ichiran-style tonkotsu.
The broth was flavorful with a good mouth feel. A lingering mouth feel. Again, very much in line with broth you would get from Ichiran or Ippudo. A touch of crushed garlic in the broth added a nice umami. The noodles, which I ordered firm, came exactly that way. Their flavor was fine, not much depth but good. The chashu was good, tender with just enough flavor. The egg was a misstep – almost hard boiled on the perimeter and mostly cooked in the yolk.
I always appreciate a nice selection of condiments and Danbo offers crushed garlic, black pepper, a soy blend and a chili sauce. I ordered the gyoza as a side and they were good: delicate wrapper, flavorful pork filling, and the char had a nice crunch. Service was friendly and efficient.
The missteps I saw in the summer of 2021 were likely caused by staffing issues around Covid. I’m happy to say Ramen Danbo delivers a fine version of tonkotsu ramen. No home runs here, but a solid player.
Ramen Club 5-Star Rating System:
Food: 3.25 stars (from 2.25 in July 2021)
Service: 4.00 stars
Atmosphere/Comfort: 3.0 stars
* RATINGS LEGEND: 1 star: weak * 2 stars: just ok * 3 stars: good * 4 stars: very good * 5 stars: superb or special *
