Okomen is a name/term formed by Okonomiyaki/ Japanese Pizza and Ramen, which suggest to us that Okomen specializes in serving Okonomiyaki and Ramen. Okomen Japanese Restaurant, a KL-based Japanese restaurant has recently opened its door to diners at level three (Queens Street) of Queensbay Mall Penang. Being an ardent fan of Ramen, I just couldn't wait to check the place out. The menu is not extensive but sufficient to please Okonomiyaki and Ramen lovers, unlike usual Japanese restaurants, they do not serve any Sushi nor Sashimi. Prices are considered reasonable in Penang's context albeit some dishes are priced on the higher side. However, there were some hits and misses for the dishes we had, some items on the menu need some refinement. I'd probably come back for a second visit but strictly for novelty instead of absolute taste.
One of their signature dishes- Yasai/ Vegetables Okonomiyaki (Rm 14.80). Served on a scorching hot plate, the warmness of the Okonomiyaki is assured. It comes with a substantial portion; the Okonomiyaki was slathered with some of their sweet but lip-smacking Okonomiyaki Sauce and Mayonnaise, sprinkled with a generous amount of Dashi flakes. This enticing combo definitely whets up my appetite with its uniquely sweet and savory flavors. A must try item for Okonomiyaki fans.
Their Tontaro Pork Yakisoba (Rm 16.80) which consists of Pork slices, Cabbage, Mushrooms and Dashi flakes was a crowd pleaser. The al-dente Ramen was sufficiently stir fried with their home-made Yakisoba sauce; possessed with adequate "Wok Hei" and a hint of sweetness; every bit of the dish was a joy to eat. Yakisoba lovers will find it hard to stop at one mouth.
Gekara/ Spicy Tamago Ramen (Rm 16.80) is a misnomer. It has no significant differences compared to the usual Miso Ramen, the only difference was the spoon of Spicy Minced Meat and no, it was not spicy at all. To my dismal, the broth was a tad salty for my palates and lacked of a "kick". Furthermore, the Tamago/ Braised Egg was over-cooked, which I was expecting a "runny" egg yolk in the middle. Fortunately, the Ramen was al-dente to my liking but I am not looking forward to a second attempt after this disappointment.
Similarly, do not harbor high expectations on Aka Oni/ Red Miso Tamago Ramen (Rm 15.80), albeit slightly better than their Butao Ramen, the broth was salty and not thick/rich enough to my liking. I do understand that authentic Ramen comes with bold flavors but this was slightly above my level of acceptance. It did not resonate with the guests either.
Ratings:
Taste: 7.5/10 (1-3 bad, 4-7 average, 8-10 good) *Strictly for the Okonomiyaki ONLY; 7/10 for Yakisoba, 6/10 for the Ramen*
Price: 6.5/10 (1-3 expensive, 4-7 average, 8-10 cheap)
Service: 8/10 (1-3 bad, 4-7 average, 8-10 good)
Ambiance: 7/10 (1-3 bad, 4-7 average, 8-10 good)
Parking: 7/10 (1-3 bad, 4-7 average, 8-10 good)
Service Charge: Yes 10%
Government Tax: No
Additional Information:
Address: No. 3F-21A, Queensbay Mall, 100, Pesiaran Bayan Indah, 11900, Bayan Lepas, Penang.
Business Hours: 11am to 10pm. Daily.
Contact Number: 604- 646 8828
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