Tsuruya

1926 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley
(415) 316-5288

Recent Reviews

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James

They have 4 bases and one can choose between either pork (Tonkotsu) or chicken (Tori Paitan). They also have the option for vegetarian ramen, but this is limited each day. What's unique is that you can have either the regular Hakata, thin noodles, or the Sapporo, medium thick wavy noodles.

You can't make reservations, but they have some seating in the clean alleyway where you can wait.

Only downside was that it took over 25 minutes for our ramen to be served, but at least the owner came to our table and apologized for the delay.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 4

Andrew Uyesugi

Best ramen in Berkeley hands down very few places I feel have that mouth feel that you want from ramen and the saltiness

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Estelle B

My favourite Japanese ramen restaurant that I’ve been to in North America. So delicious and the owner is always there and very friendly. Just wish I didn’t have to wait to be seated but that’s what happens with popular places!

Cynthia Dan.

One of the best ramens ive ever had!!!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Vegetarian Ramen

Diane Bahr

I ordered the vegetarian ramen. The broth was tasteless. Way too much noodles and way too few vegetables.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 3

Service: 5

Tam Nguyen

This is good ramen - don’t sleep on this

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Black Garlic Tonkotsu

Dr. M

I recently visited Tsuruya in Berkeley, CA, and the experience was nothing short of life-changing. Nestled in a cozy mom-and-pop shop atmosphere, the warmth and friendliness of the staff immediately made me feel welcome.

The star of the show was undoubtedly the tonkotsu ramen. The broth was rich and full of depth, clearly simmered to perfection, and the noodles were the ideal balance of chewy texture. Each ingredient from the tender pork to the perfectly cooked egg complemented each other flawlessly—the egg was particularly outstanding, with a creamy yolk that enriched the broth beautifully.

Tsuruya may be small in size, but the flavors and customer service are immense. This place captures the essence of traditional ramen with exceptional skill and care. It’s a must-visit for anyone seeking a transformative dining experience.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Phil

Perfect ramen with a great atmosphere and super friendly service!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Yuzu Sorbet, Black Garlic Tonkotsu

BPM

If you don't get the deluxe you get literally one piece of pork in your tonkotsu

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 3

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Spicy Tonkotsu Ramen

Chris Carpenter

Amazing food, perfect eggs and noodles. Quick service and fun atmosphere.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

John Gunderson

It takes a lot to leave a five star review, but this place blew that threshold away. Good ramen, not too salty, the noodles were really solid. Mushrooms were a nice touch as well, perfect amount of spiciness. And they filled up my water 3 times

Food: 5

Victor Cayuela

Great ramen in a ver nice atmosphere served by very nice and warm service. Totally recommendable. Also tried the fried calamari and they tasted amazing.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Christian Vuerings

Very tasty ramen, broth was on point, not too salty and the noodles firm, just as I had asked. Will be back.

Just know that even though the restaurant closes at 3pm, they serve the last customer at 2.45pm

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 5

Alexandra Ding

Got the spicy tonkotsu ramen and the flavors were balanced (not too oily or spicy). The waitstaff was quick and attentive, and answered our questions about food allergies.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Spicy Tonkotsu Ramen

Jason Lee

Actually spicy!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Jigoku Tonkatsu Ramen

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