Japanese Restaurant
Japanese Food BlogJapanese Restaurant Near Me
ArizonaCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaTennesseeTexasVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsin
Japanese RestaurantJapanese Restaurant Near MeNorth CarolinaDurham CountyDurhamCity CenterJapanese Restaurant in East Chapel Hill StreetDashi
Dashi ico

Dashi

Ramen restaurant ★4.0 (316)·$20–30

415 E Chapel Hill St, Durham, NC 27701, USA

4.0
Dashi Ramen is a gem in downtown Durham, offering a cozy and inviting atmosphere perfect for a casual meal. The space is charming, with a warm, intimate vibe that makes you feel right at home.The service was friendly and attentive, adding to the welcoming experience. Sitting at the bar gave me a front-row seat to the action, where I watched my meal being freshly prepared. Everything was made from scratch, and the attention to detail was clear in every bite.The food itself was fantastic—rich, flavorful broth, perfectly cooked noodles, and fresh ingredients that elevated the dish. Despite the lunchtime rush, my order came out quickly without sacrificing quality.If you’re in Durham and craving top-notch ramen with great service, Dashi is absolutely worth a visit! - Patrick Turner
Dashi Overview Intro Menu Detail Photos Location Reviews
$20–30 per person Reported by 316 people$10–20$20–30$30–50$50–100

Dashi Introduce

North Carolina's culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry, and for those in the Durham area, a true gem stands out for its dedication to authentic Japanese comfort food: Dashi Ramen. Nestled in the heart of downtown, Dashi has become a beloved spot for locals craving the rich, savory warmth of expertly prepared ramen. Far more than just a noodle shop, Dashi offers an experience that combines a welcoming atmosphere with meticulously crafted dishes, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a satisfying and flavorful meal.

From the moment you step inside, you're greeted by an inviting ambiance that strikes the perfect balance between cozy and lively. It's the kind of place where you can comfortably enjoy a solo lunch, catch up with friends, or unwind after a long day. The focus at Dashi is clear: deliver high-quality, authentic ramen that transports your taste buds straight to Japan. With a commitment to fresh ingredients and traditional preparation methods, Dashi has firmly established itself as a cornerstone of Durham's diverse dining landscape, drawing in repeat customers who appreciate its consistency and dedication to flavor.

One of the key elements that sets Dashi apart is its commitment to crafting everything from scratch. This dedication is evident in every bowl, from the deeply flavorful broths simmered for hours to the perfectly cooked noodles and the fresh, high-quality toppings. This attention to detail ensures that each dish is not just a meal, but a culinary journey, reflecting the true artistry of ramen making. Whether you're a ramen aficionado or new to this delightful dish, Dashi promises a memorable and satisfying experience.

---
Location and Accessibility

Conveniently situated at 415 E Chapel Hill St, Durham, NC 27701, USA, Dashi Ramen boasts a prime location in the bustling downtown Durham area. Its central position makes it easily accessible for anyone living or working within the city, as well as for visitors exploring the vibrant downtown scene. Being in downtown Durham means Dashi is surrounded by other popular attractions, shops, and businesses, making it an ideal stop for lunch or dinner while you're out and about.

Accessibility is a key advantage for Dashi. Whether you're driving, taking public transportation, or walking, reaching the restaurant is straightforward. For those arriving by car, downtown Durham offers various parking options, including street parking and nearby parking decks, though availability can vary during peak hours. The vibrant pedestrian-friendly nature of the area also makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer to walk or bike. Its strategic location contributes significantly to its popularity, making it a convenient and desirable dining destination for the North Carolina community.

The ease of access ensures that a delicious bowl of ramen is never too far away for Durham residents. Whether you're popping in for a quick lunch during a workday or planning a relaxed evening meal, Dashi's location makes it a hassle-free choice. The neighborhood itself is dynamic and engaging, adding to the overall appeal of visiting Dashi.

---
Services Offered
  • Dine-In Service: Enjoy your meal in Dashi's cozy and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant offers a comfortable seating arrangement, including bar seating that provides a unique view into the kitchen, allowing diners to watch their meals being freshly prepared.

  • Authentic Ramen Selection: Dashi specializes in a variety of traditional ramen bowls, with a focus on rich, flavorful broths, perfectly cooked noodles, and fresh, high-quality ingredients. Their menu caters to different preferences, ensuring there's a ramen dish to satisfy every palate.

  • Freshly Prepared Dishes: A key highlight of Dashi is its commitment to preparing everything from scratch. This dedication ensures that each component of your meal, from the broth to the toppings, is of the highest quality and freshness.

  • Friendly and Attentive Service: Customers consistently praise Dashi for its warm, welcoming, and efficient staff. The team is dedicated to providing a pleasant dining experience, from greeting guests to ensuring orders are processed quickly and accurately, even during busy periods.

  • Lunch and Dinner Service: Dashi is open for both lunch and dinner, making it a versatile option for a midday refuel or an evening meal. Despite potential lunchtime rushes, the kitchen maintains its speed and quality, ensuring timely service.

---
Features / Highlights
  • Cozy and Inviting Atmosphere: Dashi is celebrated for its warm, intimate, and charming ambiance. It’s designed to make guests feel comfortable and at home, perfect for a casual meal or a relaxed gathering.

  • Open Kitchen/Bar Seating: Diners have the option to sit at the bar, offering a direct view of the kitchen where the skilled chefs prepare dishes. This "front-row seat to the action" enhances the dining experience, showcasing the freshness and craftsmanship of the food.

  • High-Quality, Scratch-Made Food: A defining feature of Dashi is its commitment to making everything from scratch, ensuring superior flavor and quality in every dish. This includes rich, slow-cooked broths and perfectly prepared ingredients.

  • Flavorful and Authentic Broth: The ramen broths are consistently highlighted by customers for their richness and depth of flavor, a testament to traditional preparation methods and hours of simmering.

  • Efficient Service Even During Peak Hours: Despite being a popular spot that can experience rushes, especially during lunch, Dashi maintains efficient service without compromising on the quality of its food, ensuring quick and satisfying meals.

  • Central Downtown Durham Location: Its prime location in downtown Durham makes it a convenient and attractive dining destination, easily accessible for locals and visitors exploring the area.

---
Promotions or Special Offers

While specific ongoing promotions are not publicly detailed, Dashi Ramen is known for its consistent quality and value. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media channels directly for any current specials, seasonal menu items, or limited-time offers they might be running. Many local restaurants in Durham offer lunch specials, happy hour deals, or loyalty programs that can provide added value for frequent diners. For the most up-to-date information on promotions, contacting Dashi directly or visiting their online platforms would be the best approach.

---
Contact Information

To experience the delicious ramen at Dashi, or for any inquiries, you can reach them using the following contact details:

Address: 415 E Chapel Hill St, Durham, NC 27701, USA

Phone: (919) 251-9335

For the most current operating hours or to inquire about reservations (if available), a quick call to their number is recommended.

---
Conclusion: Why Dashi is Suitable for Locals

For anyone living in or around Durham, North Carolina, Dashi Ramen is more than just a restaurant; it’s a local institution that perfectly blends authenticity with community charm. Its prime downtown location makes it an easy and convenient choice for a quick lunch during a busy workday, a relaxing dinner after exploring the city, or a casual gathering with friends and family. The consistent praise for its friendly service and quick turnaround, even during peak hours, means you can always count on a satisfying meal without a long wait.

The true appeal for locals lies in Dashi's unwavering commitment to quality. The fact that everything is made from scratch, from the rich, simmering broths to the fresh toppings, resonates with a community that appreciates genuine culinary craftsmanship. This dedication to authentic flavors and traditional preparation methods ensures that each bowl of ramen is not just food, but a comforting and flavorful experience. The cozy, inviting atmosphere fosters a sense of belonging, making it a familiar and welcoming spot where you can unwind and enjoy a fantastic meal.

Beyond the exceptional food, Dashi contributes to the vibrant local economy and offers a unique dining experience that stands out in Durham's diverse food scene. It’s a place where you can taste the passion in every spoonful and feel the warmth of true hospitality. If you're a North Carolina resident seeking a reliable, delicious, and authentically prepared ramen experience, Dashi Ramen truly is your ideal destination. It's a place that embodies the spirit of local dining – quality, community, and an unforgettable taste.

Dashi Menu

  • Ramen

  • Tonkotsu US$18.50

    This milky, wholesome broth boiled for over 24 hours with local pork bones will leave your lips slick and your belly full. Roasted pork belly, mustard greens, soy marinated egg*, bean sprouts, pickled red onions, black garlic oil, scallion

  • Shio US$17.50

    One of the oldest ramen seasonings, sea salt reminds us of ramen’s Chinese origins, and Japan’s reliance on the sea. Bowl includes smoked local chicken, NC catfish kamaboko, soy marinated soft egg, wakame seaweed, enoki mushrooms, & nori.

  • Shoyu US$17.00

    Soy sauce flavors this tangy and savory broth. Shoyu is light on the tongue but packed with a flavorful punch. Shredded smoked local pork, woodear mushrooms, NC catfish kamaboko, soy marinated soft egg, scallion.

  • Miso US$17.50

    Hailing from northern Japan, this bold bowl is hearty enough to help anyone face the northern cold. This bowl is made with local smoked chicken, soy marinated egg, roasted squash, bok choy, beans sprouts, & scallion.

  • Vegetarian US$16.00

    Roasted vegetable and shitake mushroom stock is the perfect savory backdrop for the stars of this dish – Durham Farmer's Market seasonal vegetables. During the 2023 fall season, this bowl includes Fox Farm & Foraged mushrooms, bok choy, roasted squash, soy marinated egg.

  • Tantanmen US$16.00

    A Japanese take on Sichuan Dan Dan noodles, this comforting bowl delivers big on spice with mellow sesame nuttiness. Local ground pork, pickled Napa cabbage, collard greens, bean sprouts, *soy marinated soft egg, chili oil, scallion.

  • Mazemen US$16.50

    This brothless bowl treats noodles more like a fine Italian pasta, lightly coating ingredients in our spicy chili oil. Local pork meatballs, rapini, crispy garlic, scallion, chili oil.

  • Mazemen – Vegetarian US$15.50

    The vegetarian version of our famous brothless ramen. Noodles are lightly coated in our spicy chili oil. Soy marinated tofu, rapini, crispy garlic, scallion, chili oil.

  • Snacks

  • Soy Boiled Peanuts US$7.00

    Soy sauce, fresno chilis, scallions.

  • Black Sesame Nori Popcorn US$6.00

    Salty popcorn gets an upgrade with finely diced nori seaweed and sesame seeds tossed throughout. Vegan and Gluten-Free. Contains sesame.

  • Grilled Edamame US$7.00

    Grilled and seasoned with togarashi and sea salt. Vegetarian and Gluten-Free.

  • Chilled

  • Bluefin Tuna US$16.00

    Cucumbers, yuzu, crispy rice cake. Comes with three pieces.

  • Seasonal Pickles of the Day US$7.00

    Three of our rotating selection of seasonal pickles.

  • Hot House Cucumber US$8.00

    Sesame dressing, garlic chips, togarashi.

  • Crispy Tofu Salad US$11.00

    Cucumber, cabbage, basil, peanut dressing.

  • Housemade Kimchi US$6.00

    Spicy, crunchy fermented cabbage is a crowd favorite on its own or added to your ramen. Gluten-free. Contains fish sauce, shrimp, & sesame.

  • Hot

  • Tobanjan Chicken Wings US$13.00

    Wings come with white miso buttermilk dip.

  • K.F.C. – Korean Fried Cauliflower US$11.00

    Extra crispy cauliflower tossed in a tangy buffalo sauce and topped with pickled cucumber and sesame seeds. Contains butter, sesame.

  • Fried Oysters US$12.00

    Fried deliciousness served with koji tartar.

  • Pork and Kimchi Dumplings

    Pan fried dumplings filled with pork and kimchi and topped with rayu chili and watercress.

  • Msubi US$8.00

    Grilled spam atop sushi rice, rolled with nori. Two pieces!

  • Tofu Bao bun – Two Buns US$12.00

    Crispy tofu, red yuzu mayo, basil.

  • Tofu Bao bun – Four Buns US$20.00

    Crispy tofu, red yuzu mayo, basil.

  • Bun of the Day – Two Buns US$14.00
  • Bun of the Day – Four Buns US$16.00
  • Yakimono

  • Fairy Tale Eggplant Yakimono US$4.00
  • Bok Choy Yakimono US$3.00
  • Trumpet Mushrooms US$4.00
  • Baby Octopus Yakimono US$8.00
  • Chicken Hearts Yakimono US$4.00
  • Chicken Breast Yakimono US$4.00
  • Chicken Skin US$4.00
  • Chicken Thigh Yakimono US$5.00
  • NC Shrimp Yakimono US$8.00
  • Koji Pork Belly Yakimono US$8.00
  • Bacon Mochi US$6.00
  • Beef Short Rib Yakimono US$8.00
  • Dessert

  • Yuzu Olive Oil Cake US$7.00

    Moist olive oil cake infused with Japanese yuzu for a touch of lemony zing.

Dashi Details

  • From the business

  • Identifies as women-owned
  • Service options

  • Delivery
  • On-site services
  • Takeaway
  • Dine-in
  • Highlights

  • Fast service
  • Great beer selection
  • Great cocktails
  • Great tea selection
  • Great wine list
  • Popular for

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Solo dining
  • Accessibility

  • Wheelchair-accessible car park
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair-accessible seating
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • Offerings

  • Alcohol
  • Beer
  • Cocktails
  • Comfort food
  • Healthy options
  • Late-night food
  • Small plates
  • Spirits
  • Vegan options
  • Vegetarian options
  • Wine
  • Dining options

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Dessert
  • Seating
  • Table service
  • Amenities

  • Bar on site
  • Gender-neutral toilets
  • Toilet
  • Atmosphere

  • Casual
  • Cosy
  • Quiet
  • Romantic
  • Trendy
  • Crowd

  • Family friendly
  • Groups
  • LGBTQ+ friendly
  • Tourists
  • Transgender safe space
  • University students
  • Planning

  • Dinner reservations recommended
  • Accepts reservations
  • Payments

  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments
  • Credit cards
  • Parking

  • Free of charge street parking
  • Paid multi-storey car park
  • Paid parking lot
  • Paid street parking
  • Parking

Dashi Photos

Dashi Picture 1Dashi Picture 2Dashi Picture 3Dashi Picture 4Dashi Picture 5Dashi Picture 6Dashi Picture 7Dashi Picture 8Dashi Picture 9Dashi Picture 10

Dashi Location

Dashi

415 E Chapel Hill St, Durham, NC 27701, USA

Dashi Reviews

More Japanese Restaurant Near Me

  • M TempuraM Tempura4.0 (275 reviews)

    111 Orange St, Durham, NC 27701, USA

  • M SushiM Sushi4.0 (1497 reviews)

    311 Holland St, Durham, NC 27701, USA

  • Gyu-KakuGyu-Kaku0.0 (0 reviews)

    214 Hunt St Suite 100, Durham, NC 27701, USA

  • Koi Sushi & HibachiKoi Sushi & Hibachi4.0 (184 reviews)

    607 Broad St, Durham, NC 27705, USA

  • ZenFish Poke BarZenFish Poke Bar4.0 (338 reviews)

    810 9th St, Durham, NC 27705, USA

  • Koumi Japanese RestaurantKoumi Japanese Restaurant4.0 (790 reviews)

    3550 N Roxboro St, Durham, NC 27704, USA

  • Sushi LoveSushi Love4.0 (954 reviews)

    2812 Erwin Rd #204, Durham, NC 27705, USA

  • Rockinu2019 Rolls SushiRockinu2019 Rolls Sushi4.0 (2617 reviews)

    3405 Hillsborough Rd, Durham, NC 27705, USA

  • Japan ExpressJapan Express3.0 (475 reviews)

    3409 Hillsborough Rd # K, Durham, NC 27705, USA

  • Tokyo Express - Guess RD DurhamTokyo Express - Guess RD Durham3.0 (373 reviews)

    3225 Guess Rd, Durham, NC 27705, USA

  • Kurama Japanese SeafoodKurama Japanese Seafood4.0 (1539 reviews)

    3644 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd, Durham, NC 27707, USA

  • New TokyoNew Tokyo4.0 (442 reviews)

    3822 S Roxboro St, Durham, NC 27713, USA

  • Categories

    Popular Japanese Restaurant Sites

    Must-Read Japanese Food Blog Posts

    Most Searched Japanese Restaurant Sites

    Trending Japanese Food Blog Posts