Afuri Ramen has finally landed in Orange County, and for ramen enthusiasts who have made the effort to their LA locations, this is a very exciting news. The menu spans the full spectrum. Their signature Yuzu Ramen with clean, citrus chicken broth is deeply complex. For those spicy lovers, you will love the Tonkotsu Tantan (what I order this time) for its rich, spicy and layered flavor. They also offer Tsukemen (dipping noddle) for those that wants concentrated flavor without compromise. I paired my spicy Tantan with Tori Karaage and a glass of Yuzu Sour this time. The fried chicken was crispy and well seasoned, one of my favorite. And the Yuzu Sour was very refreshing, perfect to wash down the spicy creamy tonkotsu broth. Afuri isn't just another ramen shop. It has a refined, yuzu foward, izakaya vibe. For the many times I have visit Afuri, the taste is consistently Great. read more

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Had our eye on this location because it replaced Ikkousha, our favorite ramen joint before it went downhill and ultimately closed down. Afuri definitely fills the void! The signature yuzu shoyu is a unique and refreshing flavor that kept each slurp very interesting. Comes with thin noodles. The tonkotsu tantan broth is also very rich and flavorful with a kick. It comes with slightly thicker noodles and was extremely satisfying. Still in soft opening but it seems like a very cute ramen shop. Extremely limited seating so I imagine it will get very busy. read more

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It's always exciting to see chains from Japan come into OC, and with their speciality being yuzu flavors I had high hopes. The restaurant is pretty small but they do offer bar seating for less of a wait. I went on a Thursday night and waited around an hour for a table for 3. For drinks we got a yuzu sour and a frozen yuzu lager, both had that delicious yuzu flavor. I love that they serve the yuzu sour in a cup you would get in Japan. The lager was really good and the frozen part on top was a great way to keep the beer cold for our entire dinner. We ordered the spicy karaage for an appetizer, and it definitely has a kick. I think it could have been crunchier/crispier but the flavors were good. Although the menu says it comes with egg salad, the spicy version just comes with a spicy sauce (for an extra $1). Onto the entrees! The Yuzu shoyu had a strong yuzu flavor that matched well with the typical shoyu broth. I always prefer thin ramen noodles so it was nice it was paired with that. While it was good I think the broth was a little bland and depended a lot on the yuzu for flavor. The tonkatsu tantan was very rich and creamy and it was paired with thicker noodles that matched the heaviness of the dish. This one also could have had a bit more flavor outside the spice and richness, we also probably would have switched to thin noodles instead. The yuzu tsuyu tsukemen was my personal favorite, the dipping broth was much more flavorful and with the cold noodles and citrus flavors it didn't feel as heavy and was almost refreshing. Definitely recommend. I took a star off because they have a separate waitlist based on the size of your party and as a party of 3 we waited around 55 minutes with only two tables in front of us the whole time. However, the waitlist for 1 to 2 people were only waiting around 15-20 minutes. Overall we really enjoyed the drinks and a couple of the dishes, will probably return once the hype dies down and probably only in a party of 2. read more

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I've been to Afuri's LA location many times and always loved it, but it was honestly too far for me to go often. Now that they opened in Costa Mesa, I'm really excited to finally have a location in OC. I went during their opening week and had a great experience. The yuzu shio ramen is still my favorite. The broth is so addicting -- light, clean, citrusy, and packed with flavor. It's the kind of bowl that makes you want to finish every last drop, and honestly it's such a great summer ramen. Really happy to see Afuri open closer to home. I'll definitely be coming back a lot more often now. read more

Afuri - Ramen Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

We are so happy Afuri finally opened in OC! Brought kids there during their soft opening. Besides ramen, the kids' favorite was the fried egg and we had to add one more order. The sashimi was fresh, and the soft shell crab was so yummy! The staff were all friendly and helpful. We liked the ambiance as well. Plenty of parking, and it is next to a lot of other popular dessert and shopping spots! read more

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Tried Afuri for the first time on a Friday evening. There was a short wait before we got seated at the bar. I would have preferred a table instead of the bar but we were not given a choice. The restaurant is small and only have limited seating. We ordered a couple of appetizers (cold tofu and gyoza) and a couple of ramen. The tofu was just average, not bad but also not great. The gyoza was nice and crispy - it looks like they made it themselves and not something bought frozen. The sauce for the gyoza was good - a mix of mayo and some sweet/spicy red sauce. There's a good kick with this sauce so if you're sensitive with spicy food, beware. I had the chasu men, it was pretty good - broth was tasty, noodles had a good firmness, and came with slices of chicken breast and pork chasu. My husband orders the tonkatsu shio which also had nice broth. However his ramen only had one piece of chasu meat, so we ordered extra chasu on the side. Service-wise, need some improvement. No one checked in if we needed anything. We had to ask for our water to be refilled multiple times. Also had to follow up a couple of times for the extra sauce that I requested. The first server I asked seems to have forgotten and never came back with it. All in all, good place to check out for some good ramen. The biggest challenge for this place is parking. If you're coming on a weekend, it'll be hard to find parking, very limited spots as there's a lot of restaurants in this location. read more

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Unique ramen flavors, but don't think it was anything spectacular. We ordered a yuzu shio and a yuzu shoyu. The yuzu shoyu was a bit too sour for my liking, but the shio was good. The inside of the restaurant felt clean and nice, service was good. Only reason I'm docking a star is because I don't think it was really worth it for the portion size and flavor. read more

Saw that this new location was gaining some social media attention and, since I do enjoy a good bowl of ramen, I decided to give it a try (never had it at any other locations). We got the Yuzu Shio since hearing that this is a very popular option, and also the Tonkotsu Tantan with added pork chashu. Yuzu Shio was very light and refreshing, using a chicken broth base that felt very clean, but with so much flavor - definitely something that you can just keep sipping on. Tonkotsu tantan was a pork bone broth base, very rich and creamy, with a little bit of a kick from the spice. They were both good, and I typically gravitate towards a tonkotsu ramen, but I would say that the Yuzu Shio was the standout and I get why it's so popular. Would come back for that again and possibly try another one of their other yuzu options. Great service and, though we got lucky finding parking, it's located in a plaza with lots of restaurants so I could see it getting quite busy. read more

Afuri - Ramen Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Honestly just a little disappointing all around. We were seated promptly on a Monday at 6. The server went over the menu with us which was nice! After a few minutes she came back to take our order. When she took our order she informed us that several things were out of stock including 2 of the main proteins for the ramen. Why didn't she review this with us when she reviewed the menu? We received our order and everything was good and fresh. However, the Chashu portion was incredible stingy. Only 1 slice! Also only half a ramen egg. With competitors in the area like Ramen Nagi, and Hironori, I'm not sure their unique broth will be enough to bring me back. Also, they don't accept Amex. Not their fault but this always sucks. read more

First time here to dine with my family in this ramen / sushi place. Ordered Tori karaage ,yuzu shio, yuzu shoyu, yuzu tsuyu , tonkatsu shio . Food is great and delicious however Service sucks!!!!! Servers were rude, they ignored us you on top of that they forgot our karaage and we are almost done eating right before they can serve our appetizer . We have to wait 5-10 mins our water to be refilled and ask for napkins!!! Prietty expensive for a small portion of ramen serve.... Poor service Overall!!! read more

Went back to Afuri Ramen for a second visit and it definitely lived up to the first! I had to get the Yuzu Ratan again. This time we also tried a few more starters, and they did not disappoint. The fried chicken was juicy and full of umami! A must order. We got there around noon on a Saturday, line was expected but they text you when the table is almost ready so that's a plus. Service was just as friendly and efficient, and everything came out quickly even during a busier time. read more

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I visited afuri during a busy weekday lunch and ordered the Yuzu Ratan. The pork was sweet and flavorful, perfectly complementing the refreshing yuzu broth, which had a nice tang without being overly spicy. I only had to wait about 10 minutes, which is pretty reasonable given the lunch rush. The service was excellent--warm and friendly, which made the meal even more enjoyable. Overall, it was a satisfying experience, and I would happily return for another bowl of that delicious Yuzu Ratan. read more

Wanted to try this place out because they replaced my favorite ramen restaurant but turned out to be very underwhelming :( We started off with the chicken karage and it came out cold and soggy. The egg salad under it was good, but couldn't save the chicken. The ramen was good, nothing special. The tonkotsu shio came with one slice of meat and a little bit of mushroom and ginger. The hazelnut tan tan had good flavor but was lacking. Service was great though! They were very nice, but probably would not return again. read more

Afuri - Hazelnut tan tan (back) and tonkotsu shio (front) - Ramen Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Yuzu shio is definitely a hit. Super recommend the spicy karaage. Great service. Was about a 45 minute wait on a Sunday night but worth it. read more

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Not ready yet. As it presents and operates currently, AFURI is not yet ready. My friends and I were eager to try this new ramen restaurant boasting its origins from Japan and already established domestic locations, but unfortunately we were left with an overall upsetting experience. The space is small with limited seating (counter seating and a row of tables) so we joined the waitlist with 4 tables of medium parties (parties of 3-4) ahead of us. We waited 1 hour and 20 minutes and then noticed that on the waitlist website it stated "Online Waitlist has been expired." Maybe the system they use just automatically deletes waitlists over an hour, idk. However, we never got a follow up text regarding our status or an available table. We had to go inside and alert one of the staff of the issue and luckily a table of 3 had just finished and cleared out so we got seated finally. They definetely need to switch to the Yelp waitlist system and should look into enabling the online waitlist and/or reservation system like the LA, Brooklyn and Oregon locations ASAP. Unfortunately it seems like the long wait times are partly due to the understaffing of the restaurant and lack of urgency from the staff. There was I think 3 FOH total, with one server also handling expo on top of everything else. I think operations could be smoother with even one more person, maybe a dedicated expo or a dedicated host on a busy night such as the weekend. We ordered 1 yuzu shio and 2 yuzu shoyu, which was reflected on the receipt, however we received 2 yuzu shio (with one spoon missing) and 1 yuzu shoyu. In regards to the ramen itself it was average, but nothing to write home about compared to the other great ramen spots in OC. I will give props to their noodles however, pretty good texture! As it stands right now, I would hesitate to recommend this spot as it stands now. I would feel more inclined to suggest and dine at other established spots like Ramen Nagi, Hiro Nori, Kitakata Ban Nai, Ramen Tsukemen & TAO, etc. Hopefully AFURI can work out its kinks (im sure it's wonderful in Japan!), but until then a return will be unlikely. read more

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Afuri, the fine ramen spot from Japan just opened in OC! Known for their yuzu ramen, and it's definitely a must-try. I've been to their LA locations a few times and really like the Yuzu Ratan. Broth is flavorful yet not overly salty like traditional ramen. It also has a nice refreshing yuzu kick. My friend got the Yuzu Shio as a lighter option for its pure, clean yuzu flavor. Plus, their noodles are all made in-house. The service was fast and attentive. Love the atmosphere here and really liked the bar seating super chill vibe and great if you're dining solo! $25-$30 /person Can't wait to be back again for their cocktails! read more

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Light but flavorful chicken broth. Drank the soup, bamboo shoots strips are a good match. Of course the Chai Siu is nice and tender. read more

Afuri - Yuzu Ramen Shio - Ramen Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Went to Afuri specifically to try their tsukemen, Yuzu Tsuyu. My husband and I ordered the exact same thing, and somehow mine came out wrong as the spicy Kara Tsuyu. Not the end of the world, but yeah... it was spicy enough to actually matter. If you're just "average tolerance," this isn't a joke level spice , it's "makes you cough" level if not careful. The setup is classic tsukemen: one bowl of noodles already loaded with braised pork bellies, veggies, egg, bamboo shoots, and a separate dipping broth. You get to choose hot or cold noodles, go cold. Seriously. The texture is way better, more bounce, more chew, and it just makes more sense since the broth isn't cold anyway. Feels more refreshing instead of heavy. Flavor-wise, this is where they nailed it. The Yuzu Tsuyu broth is bright, citrusy, slightly tangy with a clean umami backbone. Not greasy, not overwhelming, just sharp and refreshing. Honestly one of the best cold dipping noodles I've had. The Kara version is basically the same thing but dumped with chili, which for me ruined the balance, so I ended up stealing my husband's broth instead. I'm docking a star for the mix-up because... come on, same order, how do you mess that up? But the food itself? Strong. Like, strong enough that I'm already planning to come back and try their ramen and sushi. Perfect, definitely worth your time. read more

4.5 stars Thought the ramen was very good. Didn't quite taste the yuzu element in the shoyu ramen. Maybe next time I'll get the shio (without soy sauce broth). Noodles were super good as well as the yuzu lemonade. Great spot. Already a 25 minute wait on a Sunday around noon. read more

I was extremely excited to try this restaurant, until the waiter with the upper right arm tattoo sold me Spicy Tori Karaage Chicken. I wanted to order regular Tori Karaage Chicken, but the waiter said the regular was sold out and they only had spicy left. When the Spicy Tori Karaage Chicken arrived, it looks that the spice are the chili flakes and the spicy sauced added afterwards. This means they do have regular Tori Kaarage Chicken, just not adding the spicy sauce. The table on the right of us (order after us) was able to order regular Tori Karaage. Reason: I wanted regular Tori Kaarage so I could enjoy the refreshing Yuzu Shoyu Ramen soup base. Conclusion: Either the waiter was a liar on not having regular Tori Kaarage or the restaurant doesn't make fresh kaarage. Pick a fault read more

Afuri - Yuzu Shoyu Ramen - Ramen Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Amazing Yuzu Shio Ramen! Very light broth but flavorful which is not easy to find. Love their Yuzu Limeade Tori Karaage is tender, not oily ( you can tell is freshly made! Citrus Hamachi Roll is a nice freshing roll if you like citrus. The service is exceptional. Will definitely come back!!! read more

I had a party of two and we signed in on the waitlist machine right after we got there. Problem was the machine didn't even work when I questioned the waiter about it. There were two big parties waiting outside for 1 hour before us. They became pretty upset when the waiter explained to them they needed to sign in first. And when they insisted on getting seated due to a lack of clear notice, the waiter said to them he will let them this time but they still have to wait. At this point we decided to leave. This location is pretty disorganized and this is not what I expect from a chain restaurant. Very disappointing. read more

I ordered the yuzu shio. It was good but I wish they gave more meat and an entire egg instead of half an egg. My half of an egg had egg shells stuck on it. :( read more

one of my favorite places i had eaten in japan and now it's finally in oc. the yuzu tsukemen is the same unique flavor i remember experiencing in japan, and the karaage appetizer is great too! read more

Afuri - yuzu tsukemen, yuzu shio ramen - Ramen Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

I was just taking a short break while eating, but the server came over and asked if we were finished and tried to take the food away. We had only been seated for about 20 minutes, and it made us feel extremely rushed. He take our of us plates and we are not done yet!! Very poor service and a disappointing experience. Also today is Mother's Day! read more

Afuri - Ramen Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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First time being here and the fact they just open on Monday for a soft opening I'm so impressed. I have never been to a soft opening with the staff being on point great service from server to bartender. Food was also not disappointing I would come back to try everything else on their menu. Thank you for a great experience!!! read more

Beautiful place with delicious food! I got the yuzu ratan ramen and it was so delicious :) 10/10 would come here again! It's not often I find ramen spots I really like or explore outside the usual but I'm glad I did. The service was good and I'm excited to try more from the menu! read more

The ramen was rich, flavorful, and perfectly cooked with a savory broth and fresh toppings. The cozy atmosphere and attentive service made it a place I'd gladly visit again. read more

Had Afuri in Japan back in 2018 and fondly remembered the smoky grilled pork which is torched right before it is placed on the ramen to be served. Decided to check out the new Afuri in Costa Mesa for lunch. The restaurant is clean and modern. Decided to try the Yuzu Ratan ramen since I like spicy ramen in general. The highlight is definitely the noodle. Very thin and al-dente. That was pretty much it. While the grilled piece of pork was good, it lacked the smokiness that I remembered and there was only one thin slice. The server said that they are not allowed to torch the meat here. The broth had too much yuzu flavor which made it too sour. The broth, while red, was not very spicy. The gyoza was also good but pricy. As much as I wanted to like this place, I'm not sure that I would return. There are too many ramen restaurants in the OC. read more

Afuri - Yuzu Ratan ramen - Ramen Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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if I could give 0 stars I would. It's not even all that . Customer service is terrible literally came in with my wife and kid and they skipped us and we waited for 45 min just for them to say they didn't add us on the list. Literally such a waste of time. I gave this spot a second chance and Jesus it tastes just like water no flavor nothing . Very horrible staff and food disgusting . read more

Best yuzu ramen in oc!! Yuzu ratan with crispy ramen egg appetizer is delicious. Broth is light and flavorful. Friend had the tonkotsu shio ramen and it was nice and nutty. read more

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Been meaning to try Afuri for a few years. This one opened nearby and I tried it within their first few days of opening. I had the Yuzu Ratan ramen. Yuzu flavor was strong but not overpowering. Broth was excellent overall. Came with thin noodles which were a notch firmer than I'd like but no complaints. Only thing I would change is the addition of another piece of chashu to make it feel more substantial of a meal. Would be great if it came with two pieces by default. Staff was very friendly, the bartender was especially nice and helpful. I'll be back, next time for tonkotsu or tsukemen. read more

Afuri - Yuzu Ratan ramen - Ramen Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

The new AFURI in Costa Mesa is a total level-up for the OC ramen scene. We started with the Wagyu Skirt Steak appetizer, and it was easily the highlight of the starters--perfectly tender with a rich, melt-in-your-mouth marble that paired beautifully with the light char. To drink, we splurged on a bottle of Dassai Blue 35. If you're a sake fan, this is a must-try; it's incredibly smooth with these delicate notes of white peach and a crisp finish that cuts through the richness of the Wagyu perfectly. Finishing with their signature Yuzu Shio ramen made for a perfectly balanced meal. It's definitely more of an 'experience' than your average ramen shop! read more

Afuri - Blue 35 Sake - Ramen Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Tried this new ramen spot and it did not disappoint. The staff was super friendly and attentive, making the whole experience even better. We ordered the yuzu ramen, soft shell crab, chicken karaage, and broccolini -- everything was delicious. The ramen had a bright, flavorful broth, the crab and karaage were perfectly crispy, and even the broccolini was cooked just right. Great food, great service -- easy 5 stars. I'll definitely be back. read more

This place is a must!!! Ramen is over redundant around this area, but Afuri stands out so much more. Their soup and ramen just tastes so much better. We had their yuzu ramen and all the flavors are on point! We also tried their broccolini and it was very delicious as well. Service was amazing and make sure to have their frozen yuzu beer along with your meal. Pretty damn awesome! Highly recommended!! read more

I am a big fan of the shoyu ramen but there is hardly any good ones in OC. Afuri fills that void and is the perfect spot if you are looking for just a simply but hearty bowl of noodles. One slurp of soup, you know this is the real deal from Japan! Remember to pair the ramen with an order of karraage tori. Ambrosial read more