Otani Noodle - Downtown

Otani Downtown is a hybrid fast food/restaurant with orders being placed at a counter but food delivered to your table if you are dining in. There are a couple of tables with a bench against the wall but most of the tables have backless stools. Unlike their cousin establishment in Uptown/University Circle, they do serve nihon-shu (Japanese sake). Ozeki Karatamba is a tasty, dry sake that pairs well with the ramen dishes. I am most fond of the Jigoku (hell) ramen. From reading other reviews, I gather you can order other ramen dishes spicy. I must expand my sampling on future visits. They also have some tasty appetizers. The gyoza is nicely prepared with one side browned as it should be. The (chicken) yakitori is tasty as well although a bit overcooked for my taste. I wish they had chicken liver yakitori. The decor is very colorful, reminding me more of Siamese ornamentation than Japanese. I have not tried the rice dishes but am tempted by the unagi donburi. A great place for a quick lunch when visiting downtown. Since the pandemic, there are fewer establishments open for a mid day repast.

Who doesn't love noodles. Crazy people that's who. I love noodles of all kinds. Otani was a nice find. There service was great. Very friendly people. The food was delicious and it was better priced then my local ramen place which is surprising because I live in a small town. The layout of the dining room was spacious with plenty of seating. They do have some other options in case you're not a noodle fan. I strongly recommend.