Today I was lucky enough to have a solo lunch date with myself (one of my favorite things). I was able to try the new Masa Ramen at the Valencia Promenade. Opening today, this quick casual ramen stop features 4 different flavors of ramen as well as a small assortment of bowls. The interior is small, with an open kitchen.

I chose the tonkatsu ramen bowl and an order or gyoza. The ramen came out extremely quickly, which is great for a work lunch, but also showed that the ramen is clearly not made to order. The noodles were thin, and I was a bit disappointed that they were not homemade (something I think would really set this place apart!). The broth was a bit underseasoned, but still tasty. The bowl came with plenty of condiments: the usual egg, beansprout, and bamboo, but this also came with corn and nori, which I found to be enjoyable. The slice of chasu was thick and tender with an enjoyable flavor.

The gyoza were pan fried, and certainly so! The burnt bits were a bit of an overwhelming charred flavor, but the flavor aside from that was light. It was unnerving to see a small oil slick begin on the gyoza plate.

Since it was their first day open they had, understandably, a few first day hiccups to overcome. Overall, it will be a welcome new lunch option for the local businesses, especially as the weather gets (hopefully) cooler.

Masa Ramen
27051 McBean Parkway
Valencia CA 91355
(661) 254-4229

Jennifer Ayvazian drags her husband Armen out so she can write Date Night for eatSCV.com. Jennifer also helps coordinate eatSCV’s Foodie Fridays and volunteers as an event coordinator for feedSCV. Jennifer attended culinary school and frequently travels for dining experiences worldwide. You can reach her at [email protected]