Kimen Ramen & Izakaya: Authentic Japanese Flavors in Annandale, VA

Kimen Ramen & Izakaya Introduce

For those in Virginia seeking a delightful journey into the heart of Japanese comfort food and vibrant culinary traditions, Kimen Ramen & Izakaya in Annandale offers a compelling experience. This local establishment brings together the soul-warming depths of authentic ramen and the diverse, shareable delights of an Izakaya, creating a comprehensive Japanese dining destination. Kimen Ramen & Izakaya aims to provide not just a meal, but an immersive experience, combining quality ingredients with an engaging atmosphere. Whether you're a devoted ramen enthusiast eager to explore rich broths and perfectly chewy noodles, or someone looking to sample a variety of small Japanese plates, Kimen offers a menu designed to satisfy diverse palates. For residents of Annandale and the broader Northern Virginia region, it represents a convenient and authentic spot to enjoy Japanese cuisine in a setting that's both low-key and visually captivating. The restaurant's dedication to flavor, generous portions, and efficient service positions it as a noteworthy choice for those seeking a genuine taste of Japan right in their neighborhood.

Kimen Ramen & Izakaya is conveniently located at 4217 John Marr Dr, Annandale, VA 22003, USA, placing it within a easily accessible area of Annandale. John Marr Drive is a well-trafficked road in the heart of Annandale, ensuring that the restaurant is straightforward to find for both local residents and those traveling from nearby communities in Northern Virginia. This strategic location makes Kimen Ramen & Izakaya a practical choice for a quick lunch, a relaxed dinner with family, or a casual outing with friends. The area typically offers various parking options, contributing to a hassle-free arrival for diners. Its accessibility means that Kimen Ramen & Izakaya integrates seamlessly into the daily lives of Virginia locals, providing a convenient and inviting option for enjoying authentic Japanese flavors without venturing too far from their daily routines or local neighborhoods. Whether you're running errands, commuting, or simply looking for a new favorite spot for Japanese food, Kimen Ramen & Izakaya's location in Annandale positions it as a highly convenient and attractive option for all.

Kimen Ramen & Izakaya offers a range of services designed to provide a flexible and enjoyable dining experience for its customers.

Dine-In Service: Enjoy your meal in the restaurant's unique and visually engaging environment. The "loved the vibes and decor" atmosphere provides a comfortable setting for savoring your Japanese dishes.
Takeout: For those with busy schedules or who prefer to enjoy their meal at home, Kimen Ramen & Izakaya likely offers convenient takeout services, allowing customers to pick up their orders to enjoy elsewhere.
Diverse Menu Offerings: Beyond just ramen, the "Izakaya" aspect means they offer a variety of small plates and other Japanese dishes, providing options for sharing and exploring different flavors.
Fast Service: Customers frequently praise the speed of service, noting that food comes out quickly, which is a significant plus for those on a tight schedule or simply eager to eat.
Family-Friendly Environment: Despite some minor quibbles, the overall positive experience and diverse menu make it suitable for family outings, as noted by customers who brought their families for a first-time visit.

Kimen Ramen & Izakaya boasts several key features and highlights that contribute to its appeal and positive reputation among local diners in Virginia.

Quality Japanese Food: Despite being a "small low key restaurant," it consistently "serves quality Japanese food," indicating a focus on flavor and authenticity across its menu.
Amazing Portions: Customers frequently commend the "amazing portions," ensuring a satisfying and filling meal for the price. This emphasis on generous servings provides excellent value.
Thick and Creamy Chicken Ramen: The chicken ramen receives particular praise for being "so thick and creamy," hailed as "such an amazing chicken ramen in the DMV," making it a must-try for poultry ramen enthusiasts.
Diverse Ramen Options: Beyond the chicken ramen, the restaurant offers various other ramen types (including a "rich and tasty" Miso Ramen with "plentiful and tender" pork), encouraging repeat visits to try them all. The Mazemen (ramen without soup) is also highlighted for its "good and intense" flavor and "springy noodles."
Flavorful Izakaya Dishes: While the focus is on ramen, other dishes like Chicken Karaage and Unagidon are also available. The Karaage is noted for its seasoning and preferable breading, while the Unagidon is described as "just good."
Unique and Visually Interesting Decor: The restaurant's "cool" decor, featuring walls papered with Japanese magazine pages, books, and posters, along with shelves of Japanese toys and tchotchkes, creates a distinctive and "delightful" atmosphere that enhances the dining experience.
Friendly and Attentive Staff: Patrons consistently highlight the staff for being "friendly and attentive," which contributes significantly to a positive overall experience, even when there are minor issues.

While specific, real-time promotions may vary, Kimen Ramen & Izakaya's commitment to offering quality Japanese food with "amazing portions" already suggests inherent value for its customers in Virginia. Restaurants of this nature often employ various strategies to attract and retain their local clientele.

Potential promotions that Kimen Ramen & Izakaya might offer could include:

Lunch Specials: Many ramen and izakaya spots provide special lunch combos or discounted bowls during weekday lunch hours to cater to the local workforce or those seeking a quick meal.
Happy Hour Deals: For the "Izakaya" portion of their business, they might offer discounts on appetizers or select beverages during specific happy hour times.
Loyalty Programs: A system where frequent diners can earn points or receive exclusive discounts on future visits.
Seasonal Menu Items: Introduction of new ramen flavors or izakaya dishes for a limited time, possibly with introductory pricing.
Takeout/Delivery Promotions: Special offers for orders placed directly through their own system or via third-party delivery apps.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on any current promotions, Virginia locals interested in Kimen Ramen & Izakaya are encouraged to:

Call the restaurant directly at (703) 462-8262.
Check their official website or social media pages, as these are common platforms for announcing deals and updates.
Inquire with the friendly staff during a visit to the restaurant.

Taking these steps will help ensure you can take full advantage of any available savings or special dining opportunities at Kimen Ramen & Izakaya.

For those looking to contact Kimen Ramen & Izakaya, whether to inquire about their menu, place an order, or for any other information, you can reach them via the following contact details:

Address: 4217 John Marr Dr, Annandale, VA 22003, USA

Phone: (703) 462-8262

Mobile Phone: +1 703-462-8262

Kimen Ramen & Izakaya is a highly suitable and compelling choice for locals in Annandale, Virginia, and the surrounding Northern Virginia area, offering a distinct and satisfying Japanese dining experience. Its strength lies in its ability to deliver "quality Japanese food" with "amazing portions" and "fast service," addressing key desires for local diners. The standout ramen dishes, particularly the "thick and creamy" chicken ramen and the "rich and tasty" miso ramen, establish it as a top contender for ramen enthusiasts in the DMV. Beyond ramen, the diverse Izakaya offerings ensure there's something for every palate, making it ideal for both individual meals and group outings. The unique and "very cool" decor creates a memorable and engaging atmosphere that enhances the overall dining experience. While some minor details might be noted, the overarching sentiment from customers emphasizes "solid and enjoyable" flavors and textures, coupled with friendly and attentive staff. For Virginia locals seeking authentic, flavorful, and generously portioned Japanese cuisine in a uniquely themed setting, Kimen Ramen & Izakaya is a definite must-try, promising a positive culinary adventure that encourages repeat visits.

Kimen Ramen & Izakaya Food & drink

Katsu Meal
Shrimp Katsu Meal US$22.10
Deep fried jumbo shrimp katsu with side of cabbage salad, rice, and miso soup.
Pork Katsu Meal US$22.10
Deep fried pork tenderloin cutlet with side of cabbage salad, rice, and miso soup.
Chicken Katsu Meal US$22.10
Deep fried chicken breast cutlet with side of cabbage salad, rice, and miso soup.
Menchi Katsu Meal US$22.10
Deep fried ground pork cutlet katsu with side of cabbage salad, rice, and miso soup.

Summer Special
Zaru Soba US$19.50

Appetizer
Kaki Tempura US$11.70
Deep fried oyster with wasabi mayo
Fire Mussel US$13.00
Grilled Mussels Topped With Spicy Mayo
Yakitori Shripm 2pcs US$11.70
Takoyaki US$11.70
Battered octopus over tartar topped with kewpie mayo and takoyaki sauce.
Tako Wasabi US$9.10
Raw octopus dressed with spicy wasabi.
Agedashi Tofu US$10.40
Deep fried tofu in tsuyu broth.
Kimchi US$5.85
Spicy cabbage.
Pork Chashu Bun US$6.50
Pork chashu steamed bun with lettuce, cucumber and katsu and mayo sauce
Tamago Menchi Katsu US$15.60
Fried boiled egg covered with miced pork served with katsu sauce
Cabbage Salad US$4.55
Yakitori Chicken 2pcs US$11.70
Side Katsu US$15.60
Katsu only, no side items are included. With your choice of pork, chicken, shrimp, or menchi katsu (ground pork cutlet)
Cutlet Bun US$7.80
Deep fried cutlet, steamed bun with lettuce, cucumber, and katsu sauce.
Gyoza US$9.10
Deep fried dumplings (pork, spicy pork, chicken, and beef).
Chicken Karaage US$11.70
Japanese boneless fried chicken, spicy mayo sauce.
Edamame US$7.80
Steamed soybean, lightly salted.
Kurobuta Sausage US$10.40
Seared Japanese berkshire pork sausage with crispy outside and center bursting with flavor.
Shumai Dumplings US$11.70
Dumplings filled With Shrimp Wrapped In Delicate Dough
Seaweed Salad US$7.80
Seaweed salad with roasted sesame seed.

Donburi
Chicken Karaagedon US$21.45
Lightly breaded chicken thigh nuggets over rice.
Katsudon US$21.45
Deep fried pork tenderloin/chicken/shrimp cutlet over rice with soybase sauce.
Gyudon US$20.15
Thinly sliced beef simmered with onions savory sweet sauce over rice.
Teriyaki Chickendon US$21.45
Grilled chicken thigh with teriyaki sauce over rice.
Unagidon US$27.30
Grilled eel served with teriyaki sauce over rice.
Chashudon US$20.15
Braised Berkshire pork belly with seasoned egg over rice.

Beverage
Diet Coke US$2.60
A crisp, refreshing taste you know and love with zero calories.
Ginger Ale US$2.60
Sprite US$2.60
The cold, refreshing flavors of lemon and lime, perfectly blended.
Ramune Strawberry US$5.20
Coke US$2.60
The cold, refreshing, sparkling classic that America loves.
Ramune Original US$5.20
Melon Cream Soda US$6.50
Creamy soft drink with melon flavor made in japan

Ramen
Miso Ramen US$20.15
Soybean paste, chashu (pork or chicken) seasoned egg, nori, green onion, corn.
Mazemen US$21.45
Soup less ramen with spicy minced pork, egg yolk, fish powder, minced garlic, green onions, chives, and dried seaweed flakes.
Shoyu Ramen US$20.15
Soy sauce, chashu (pork or chicken), seasoned egg, nori, green onion, and menma.
Tsukemen US$21.45
Dipping cold noodle with a bowl of smoky seafood flavored pork broth.
Yakisoba US$21.45
Japanese style pan-fried noodles with onion, bean sprout, carrot, cabbage, bonito flakes (pork or chicken).
Spicy Ramen US$20.15
Chili pepper, chashu (pork or chicken), seasoned egg, nori, green onion, and kikurage.
Tantanmen US$21.45
Hot and spicy ramen with roasted peanuts, sesame seeds in silky pork broth, spicy minced pork, seasoned, egg, green onion, bok choy, cilantro, shredded red pepper.
Seafood Ramen US$22.75
Shrimp, squid, mussel, bean sprouts, onion, and bokchoy (mild or spicy).
Kimen Original Ramen US$20.15
Sea salt, chashu (pork or chicken), seasoned egg, nori, green onion, kikurage.
Vegetable Ramen US$20.15
Vegetable broth ramen noodle with kikurage, bean sprout, bok choy, broccoli, green onion, wakeme, nori, and tofu.

Extra
Extra Soup US$6.50
Extra Green Onion US$1.30
Extra Bok Choy US$2.60
Extra Spicy Pork Soboro US$3.90
Extra Chicken Chashu US$3.90
Extra Wakame US$1.30
Steamed Rice US$3.25
Extra Shrimp Tempura US$3.25
Extra Noodle US$3.90
Extra Kikurake US$2.60
Extra Pork Chashu US$3.90
Extra Aji Tama US$2.60
Exfra Menma US$2.60
Extra Corn US$1.30
Extra Nori US$1.30
Extra Tofu US$2.60
Extra Bean Sprout US$1.30
Miso Soup US$3.25

Katsu Curry
Shrimp Katsu Curry US$21.45
Deep-fried jumbo shrimp tempura served over a bed of curry and rice
Chicken Katsu Curry US$21.45
Chicken Karaage Curry US$21.45
Japanese boneless fried chicken served over a bed of curry and rice.
Pork Katsu Curry US$21.45
Deep-fried pork tenderloin cutlets served over a bed of curry and rice
Tofu Curry US$21.45
Deep-fried tofu served over curry and rice

Sides/Desserts
Ice Mochi Ice Cream US$7.80
Crepe Cake US$10.40

Kimen Ramen & Izakaya Details

Service options
Delivery
Takeaway
Dine-in

Highlights
Fast service

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet

Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Comfort food
Late-night food
Quick bite
Small plates
Spirits

Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities
Bar on site
Toilet

Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy

Crowd
Groups
University students

Planning
Accepts reservations

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Children
Good for kids
High chairs

Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Parking

Kimen Ramen & Izakaya Photos

Kimen Ramen & Izakaya Location

Kimen Ramen & Izakaya

Virginia Fairfax County Annandale John Marr Drive

4217 John Marr Dr, Annandale, VA 22003, USA

Kimen Ramen & Izakaya Reviews

Loved the vibes and decor of Kimen! It’s a small low key restaurant that serves quality Japanese food. Amazing portions and fast service.Update: I came back and tried their chicken ramen. So thick and creamy. Such an amazing chicken ramen in the DMV. Can’t wait to try the other ramen options! You cannot go wrong with any menu item.
December 26 · Mariana Salas
I took my family to try Kimen for the first time this past weekend. Overall, the experience was positive with a just a few minor quibbles.We ordered chicken karaage, which can be a good barometer for a Japanese restaurant’s commitment. While it certainly does not compare to the karaage we ate in Tokyo, it was pretty good. The meat was seasoned, but could have used more time in the marinade. The breading was basically just a dredge. We find this preferable to the overly thick “KFC” style you sometimes encounter. The issue was that the meat was drier and tougher than it should have been, yet there were still slightly wet spots of coating. The dish as acceptable, but compromised.I ordered the mazemen, ramen without the soup. It came with ground meat, garlic, ginger, scallions, and a raw egg yolk on top. It’s eaten bibimbap, or mix mix style. The flavor was good and intense and the noodles were springy with good chew. This dish was good.Another ordered the unagidon. She remarked that it was just good with the portion perhaps a bit on the small side. Somewhat understandable given that roast eel is an expensive item.The miso ramen is also another good test dish. Kimen’s miso ramen was quite good. The broth was rich and tasty, the noodles lively and fresh, and the pork plentiful and tender. If the rest of their ramen offerings score like this, it’s worth returning.The chicken katsudon was good. Neither outstanding nor disappointing. The meat was fresh and fried just right. Perhaps a bit too much shredded cabbage side.Two dishes came with miso soup, which was a bit disappointing for two reasons. Although the menu picture shows it containing diced tofu as is common, ours came with none. And the flavor was thin. Double the miso paste would have been more appropriate.Finally, the bowls and plates in which the food came in were all chipped heavily around the edges. Without exception. While a gentle nod to wabi sabi and the reality of a life properly lived, we felt the damage was a bit too extensive and one member could feel scratchiness or grittiness at the bottom of her bowl through her chopsticks.The decor is worth noting. All the walls were papered with what appeared to be pages from Japanese magazines or books and posters. It was very cool and provided much visual interest. There were also shelves with Japanese toys and tchotchkes. Delightful.In sum, Kimen was a mixed bag with a lean toward the positive. The flavor and textures were solid and enjoyable. The details were where there were some concessions. However, given that the staff was friendly and attentive, I think we’ll go back again to try some more eats.We also tried to upload photos.
March 19 · Wilkey Wong
This has a great Japanese atmosphere and the food is true to taste with Japanese food. Cost is a little more than expected at over $70 for three meals but the taste is worth it.
January 25 · Chris Pfeiffer
Very cute and cozy place with delicious food and kind customer service! Hot sake comes out so cute with the cutest cups. Our favorite go-to menu is the Donkatsu Curry and the Tamago Katsu! Mixing the katsu sauce and the hot sauce or chili oil is our little secret to add an extra kick! Customer service was so memorable because everyone greeted us and served us with a big smile and kindness. This was already our second time, and we’ll definitely be coming back again soon to try new menu items! Highly recommend although it’s a cute local spot that we wish only we knew hehe
November 11 · Olivia Lee
Went in the evening time. Had to wait a bit since I only saw 1 worker and place was pretty full (although there are not that many tables in this restaurant). I ordered Pork Katsu and Miso Ramen. Took a long time for food to be served. Miso Ramen was okay but katsu was terrible. Meat was hard and barely chewy and no flavor. Ended up eating only the ramen and I could not find the server. Definitely would not recommend katsu from here.
May 23 · John Lee