4 Essential Ramen-Eating Tips Every Seasoned Foodie Knows

1. Nep Cafe by Kei Concepts

Vietnamese

Located in Irvine, California, Nep Cafe by Kei Concepts serves up some seriously satisfying Vietnamese dishes. From filet mignon to garlic noodles, each of their specialties is presented to perfection. The inside of the restaurant is just as stunning as the food, though you may have a wait – this spot is one of Orange County's busiest restaurants!

2. Juqi

Chinese

Juqi brings a true Beijing influence to their first-ever US location in Flushing, New York with a wide range of Chinese dishes. Their Peking duck is hailed as one of the most-photographed meals, since it's carved tableside. They have even more traditional bites to indulge in, like kung pao chicken and mapo tofu.

3. Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen

American

Vegas is the place to be if you're a foodie, and Gordon Ramsay's Hell's Kitchen is not one to miss. Of course, the celebrity factor is a huge draw to this Las Vegas-based restaurant, but signature dishes like the succulent beef wellington and tasty lobster risotto will really steal the show. The interior of the restaurant is modern, lively, and vibey.

4. X-FISH Izakaya

Sushi

Landing the #4 spot is X-FISH Izakaya, located in Buena Park, California. You really can't ever go wrong with sushi, as it's always stunning on the plate. This spot's $55 all-you-can-eat omakase is an absolute staple on their menu, offering a delicious array of sushi, sashimi, and 14 pieces of high-quality nigiri. The inside of the restaurant is clean and minimalistic, mirroring the flawless presentation of the food.

5. Bacchanal Buffet

Buffet-style

This decadent buffet located in Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, Nevada is insane. They've got all kinds of crab: crab legs (pictured above), king crab, snow crab, and steamed crab. Surf and turf is the name of the game here, as they also serve lobster, pork belly, Korean fried chicken, and lamb chops among other things. Every buffet selection is thoughtfully presented to enhance the whole dining experience. Plus, you'll be surrounded by the classic hustle-and-bustle of Las Vegas since it's located right in the casino-hotel!

6. La Grande Boucherie

French

Every aspect of La Grande Boucherie in Chicago, Illinois is picturesque. The stained glass art, mosaic floors, and stacked center bar will steal your attention – that is, until you scan the menu. This restaurant serves up a mean steak tartare, Wagyu burger, Macaroni au Gratin, and even more fancy foods that arrive on elegant plates. Don't even get us started on the cocktails!

7. Chubby Cattle BBQ Rowland Heights

Korean BBQ

Korean barbecue is naturally photogenic, as you prepare each bite yourself atop a personal grill. The ritual is super fun in itself, and the cozy interior of Chubby Cattle BBQ in Rowland Heights, California only enhances it. This location is furnished with intimate seating, cozy low light, and even a free gaming arcade to enjoy post-meal. Korean BBQ is something we think everyone should experience at least once!

8. Mama’s Fish House

Hawaiian

If you ever find yourself in Paia, Hawaii, Mama's Fish House is a must. Their fish dishes are caught fresh daily by local fishermen, so you know you're getting the good stuff. Fans of the restaurant have fallen in love with the Tristan Island Lobster Tails for dinner, and the Polynesian Black Pearl (pictured above) for dessert. Yum. The main selling point of this island dining experience is that it sits right along the shore, offering some really serene ocean views.

9. Konban

Izakaya

This Japanese-Korean fusion joint in New York, New York dishes up some super high-quality and authentic bites, from katsu to udon noodles. The interior of the restaurant is designed with warmth and simplicity in mind, amping up the comfort food to a tee. Devoted diners love the corn ice cream (pictured above), which is cleverly shaped like a corn on the cob and made with oven-roasted corn and white chocolate.

10. Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House

Japanese Hot Pot

You can choose from three tiers of all-you-can-eat hot pot at this chic spot in Santa Clara, California. Like Korean barbecue, hot pot is really ritualistic and interactive, as you cook your own meats in a simmering pot of flavorful broth right at your table. Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House offers a wide array of Wagyu meats to indulge in, among other decadent dishes like beef tartare, shrimp sashimi, and scallops.

11. Zippy’s Las Vegas

Hawaiian

Zippy's Hawaiian cuisine touched down in the mainland in Las Vegas, Nevada last year, and it's been loved ever since. The fast-casual spot serves up classic Hawaiian dishes with a Korean twist, such as Korean fried chicken, chili rice, and their signature Zip Pac that includes a little bit of everything: golden fried chicken, a breaded white flaky hoki fish filet, a tender slice of teriyaki marinated beef, and a slice of Spam over rice.

12. Marugame Udon

Japanese

This noodle joint in Honolulu, Hawaii allows you to watch as your hearty udon bowl is made. The separate tempura station is totally picture-worthy, too. The Curry Nikutama Udon is Marugame Udon's best-selling dish, which is served with sweet beef and a soft-boiled egg.

13. Mijo Modern Mexican Restaurant

Mexican

This Mexican spot in Las Vegas, Nevada serves up dishes inspired by the Mexican coast. It's a real surf and turf show, with offerings that range from lobster enchiladas to birria tacos. The inside is colorful and energetic – you'll find a skeleton mariachi man, neon light art pieces, and intricate chandeliers as you dine.

14. Prince Dumpling

Dim Sum

Prince Dumpling, located in Rosemead, California, is filled with picture-perfect dishes like these pan-fried pork buns, soup dumplings, and dan dan noodles. Though you wouldn't expect it from the outside, the inside is super roomy and boasts a clean, minimalistic design. You'll have tons of fun here, especially because the bustling dumpling kitchen is visible through glass.

15. Olio e Più

Italian

Your next elegant date night is calling! Italian joint Olio e Più is seated in Chicago, Illinos, and offers up some truly unforgettable meals. The interior is rustic yet polished, plus the lighting is romantically dim. You can order from a large list of different pastas, like this Chitarra Alla Carbonara topped with an egg yolk, Gnocchi Pesto E Pistacchio, and Ravioli Di Carciofi, just to name a few.

16. Honolulu Seafood Restaurant

Dim Sum

This Chinese seafood spot in Honolulu, Hawaii is all about large portions and high-quality food. The dim dum selection is vast and oh-so tasty, but you can also order heartier classics like chow mein noodles, Peking duck, and plenty of plump stuffed buns. The interior is uniquely decorated, plus the seating layout encourages communal eating – bring your friends!

17. Summer House on the Lake

Pizza

You'll find a little bit of everything at Summer House on the Lake, in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. They've got pizza, sandwiches, pasta, tacos, and more for the main event, then plenty of sweet treats to pick from once dessert o' clock rolls around. This restaurant's Californian influence is undoubtedly seen through not only their dishes, but the inside of the dining room as well. The space is breezy and light, dotted with palm trees, greenery, woven chairs and light fixtures, and striped walls. They even have a whole cookie bar!

18. Straits Honolulu

Asian Fusion

Straits in Honolulu, Hawaii specializes in Southeast Asian cuisine, from katsu platters to noodle dishes. Diners especially love the Crab Garlic Noodles, which are served with a whole crab on a bed of flavorful wok-fried egg noodles. Their unique cocktails are not to be missed, either.

19. VIDA Cocina & Tequila

Mexican

This vibey cocina in Altamonte Springs, Florida has tons of delicious Mexican dishes to choose from, like birria tacos and chimichangas. They also have some playful riffs on other cuisines, demonstrated through their fresh Culichi Sushi! The interior of this restaurant is colorful and bold, playing up the greatness of their food. When it's time for a treat, VIDA has quite the selection of tequila and mezcal cocktails, as well as desserts like churros and tres leches cake.

20. Terry Black’s Barbecue

Barbecue

Terry Black's Barbecue has been a staple in the Austin, Texas area for years, and with over 10,000 photos and 7,000 reviews on Yelp, it's clear to see why. This is true Southern comfort food. Each cut of expertly-cooked pork, beef, and sausage can be paired with a platter of creamy mac and cheese, greens, cream corn, and coleslaw. The interior is fairly no-frills, which only speaks to the sheer greatness of their meats.

21. Coqodaq

Korean Chicken

Caviar fiends are gonna love this restaurant located in New York, New York. Their signature dish is none other than the Golden Nugget – a breaded chicken nugget topped with a generous serving of caviar. Coqodaq's entire menu is influenced by the art of Korean fried chicken, so you'll be able to find offerings like fried chicken, chicken nuggets, and soy garlic chicken amongst fresh salads and noodle dishes.

22. Cafe Du Monde

French Cafe

Cafe Du Monde might have a limited menu (it's literally just beignets and coffee), but the New Orleans, Louisiana stop is so worth it. The restaurant's open-air seating arrangement in the French Quarter offers an amazing atmosphere while you chow down on the famous fried pastries (with plenty of powdered sugar, of course).

23. Southeast Impression

Thai

This Thai food joint in Fairfax, Virginia serves up a multitude of hearty noodles, soups, and salads. The vibe of the restaurant's interior is nothing short of classy and cool, which only heightens the experience. Diners love the Drunken Noodles, Pineapple Fried Rice, and Hainanese Chicken.

24. Anchovies & Salt

Vietnamese

This Renton, Washington restaurant has it goin' on. Anchovies & Salt delivers Vietnamese dishes that go way beyond your typical bowl of pho. Banh Mi, crab rolls, and doughy beef-stuffed pillows await you inside a cozy interior.

25. Nami Kaze

Japanese

Asian fusion is the name of the game at Nami Kaze in Honolulu, Hawaii. Many of their dishes are brunch-worthy, like the Honey Walnut Shrimp Waffles, Shrimp Eggs Benedict, and Custard French Toast, offering a really unique take on classic brunch fare.

Alex Tee x Fishwife

Lisa Says Gah!'s fan-favorite crop top got the Fishwife treatment for the collaboration. The Sardine Tee boasts two adorable tinned fish illustrations along the bust, and I simply have to have it. This piece fits like a baby tee and has a trendy cropped length.

Nail Art Stickers x Fishwife

The two brands tapped Danny "Danbo" Miller to create this adorable nail sticker sheet. It features tiny images of various fishes, olives, peppers, lemons, and basically everything you could ever want at a coastal charcuterie party.

Fishes Necklace in Silver

This shiny necklace is dotted with silver fish-shaped beads to deliver the ultimate statement accessory. It'd look especially dreamy on the beach!

Fishes Bracelet in Silver

Complete the look with this stretchy beaded bracelet. Whether tinned fish is in the equation or not, it'll let everyone know you're riding the wave of the hottest food trend!

Lisa Says Gah! x Fishwife Smoked Salmon

The ultimate piece that's a part of the Lisa Says Gah! x Fishwife collection is, of course, the actual tinned fish. This iteration of Fishwife's smoked salmon tins boasts the cutest packaging ever, dotted with colorful foodie illustrations. Their fish is sustainably sourced, canned by a family-run facility, and is free of antibiotics or chemicals. Plus, it's so tasty.

1. Cookie Presses

Williams Sonoma Cookie Press Set

The cookie press was once a must-have for home bakers hoping to create perfectly-shaped cookies. All you had to do was fill the canister with dough and pull the trigger to squeeze out cookies in fun shapes and designs, oftentimes themed for holidays like Easter and Christmas!

But while this tool has some nostalgic charm, it's typically seen as more of a novelty than a necessity nowadays. Modern bakers have gone back to rolling out dough by hand and using cool cookie cutters or other tools like rollers that offer more versatility.

2. Butter Molds

Antique Carved Wooden Butter Mold

Butter molds, typically made out of wood, featured ornate designs like flowers or wildlife and were prized for their ability to shape butter into beautiful patterns. Then, the decorative butter was often used to impress guests at dinners or other formal occasions!

Outside of antique stores, though, this kitchen tool is rarely seen today. The convenience of pre-packaged butter and the move toward minimalist kitchens among homeowners have made these fancy molds almost obsolete.

3. Breadboxes

IKEA Magasin Bread Bin

You probably remember your grandparents' decorative breadbox sitting on their kitchen counter – it was designed to keep loaves fresh by protecting them from air and light while still allowing for enough ventilation.

The invention came during an era when bread was usually homemade or purchased fresh on a regular basis. But today, the availability of pre-sliced bread and the widespread use of plastic packaging have caused the breadbox to fall by the wayside.

4. Egg Poacher Pans

Eggssentials Poached Egg Maker

Next up is the egg poacher pan, which had small cups to hold eggs as they gently cooked in simmering water. The tool was supposed to simplify breakfast prep without the need for precise technique or timing.

Yet, as home cooks became more skilled in the kitchen, they realized the same result could be achieved using just a large pan of water and a dash of vinegar. This has rendered the egg poacher pan pretty obsolete.

5. Cake Breakers

Vintage Cake Breaker

First invented during the 1930s, cake breakers were designed to help people slice through delicate cakes without squishing them. The tool almost looked like a very long-toothed comb and would be used like a knife.

But, much like with the egg poacher pan, the evolution of baking techniques and the rise of better gadgets have caused the cake breaker to be replaced by things like sharper knives.

6. Cherry Pitters

OXO Good Grips Cherry & Olive Pitter

People who frequently enjoyed fresh cherries once viewed the cherry pitter as a must-have. Instead of battling with a knife, the contraption used hand-crank technology to pull the pits out.

Nonetheless, cherry fans can now find pitted cherries readily available in supermarkets, so de-pitting them at home is no longer a typical chore.

7. Hand Mixers

SMEG Hand Mixer

You probably have memories of cranking a hand mixer to whip, beat, or mix ingredients. Thankfully for your forearms, more efficient appliances have been released that rendered the hand mixer unnecessary.

Obviously, there are electric hand mixers and even more heavy-duty stand mixers on the market, like the famed KitchenAid. Plus, some people use regular blenders or immersion blenders to achieve the same result!

8. Toast Racks

Apollo Chrome Toast Rack

Last (but certainly not least) is the toast rack! This quaint kitchen item helped hold slices of toast upright, allowing the bread to cool without becoming soggy.

It was particularly well-used in more formal settings or when multiple people were being served at once. Nowadays, it's just less convenient, as home cooks can lay their toast out on larger cooling racks to save time and space in their kitchens.