Ivan Ramen at Bar Tartine, San Francisco USA

Ivan's Classic Shio Ramen: whole chicken dashi broth, rye noodle, kuro buta belly, 6 minute egg

Sofrito Mazemen: rye noodle, kuro buta belly, iriko katsuo dashi, 6 minute egg

Tonight, Bar Tartine had a collaboration with the famous NewYork's Ivan Ramen. This is only a one-night event, and I am very exciting to share my dining experience! Although the exterior of Bar Tartine appears very plain, once you step inside, the restaurant is actually very nice with beautiful interior design and decorations. Since it was a prepaid reservation ($54), I get to try many of their small dishes.

Tonkatsu Sandwich at Iyasare, Berkeley USA

This is the first time I have Tonkatsu (deep fried pork cutlet) Sandwich. It's around $15, a bit pricey comparing to a typical sandwich, but definitely worth it! The Tonkatsu is very tender and tasty. I really cried... I guess the mustard is pretty strong.

*UPDATE (Oct 29, 2015) This dish is no longer available. T_T

Sakura Mochi, Dango, and Kashiwa Mochi at Tamon Tea, Berkeley USA

Sakura Mochi 桜餅 ~$2.5

Red Bean Paste inside of Sakura Mochi

Tamon Tea is a Japanese Snack Shops located in Berkeley. (right across Berkeley City College) They have various Japanese treats such as Sakura Mochi (imported from Hokkaido, Japan) Dango, Kushi Mochi, Yokan, etc. 

Owner of the store imported their Sakura Mochi from Hokkaido Japan. What is most surprising is that you are supposed to eat the leaves along with the mochi too. The leave is sakura leaves and it is pickled and well prepared for eating. Inside the mochi, there is sweet red bean paste. The overall of this sweet is AMAZING! I really wish I can enjoy this mini treat while viewing Sakura blossom in Japan. 

Spicy Shrimp Tantanmen at Ramen Shop, Oakland USA

Spicy Shrimp Tantanmen $17.5

I am not a spicy food-eater, so I was very glad that the spicy shrimp tantanmen is something that I can truly enjoy. I can finally taste the chili oil and the spice that were simmered in the broth. This is one of the few times that I am very happy with a spicy dish.

Mixing with white parts of leeks and other veggies, this spicy tantanmen is something that I would love to come back and try it again and again.