Oki Doki- Costa Mesa, CA

A friend and I had our hearts set on Mentasu Ramen in Costa Mesa last night. But to our disappointment, Mentasu was closed on Tuesdays! I personally have not been to Mentasu but was going on her recommendation.

Since our first choice was shot down, I suggested Oki Doki across the street as our alternative. I've been here once before a year ago but wanted to see how they've progressed so far. The noodle bowl that I got at my first visit didn't impress me enough to warrant another trip after but I was feeling generous enough to give them a second try. :)

We were immediately seated when we walked in and it was the same as I remember it. Small, cozy and dim with half the restaurant split with a black divider.

It was quite confusing though as we were given 3 menus each! One was a small booklet which was the main menu complete with lots of pictures. The 2nd was a one sheet menu that listed the specials. And the 3rd was a narrow menu that seemed to list appetizer like dishes but it was also listed in the booklet. It took us quite awhile to figure out what we wanted.

Seeing as I was supposed to eat ramen at Mentasu, I decided to try out Oki Doki's ramen so I ordered the Ramen with Special Pork for $6.95.

There was a healthy topping of fried onions and onions that I took off the top before I took this picture. Also, I had given the other half of the egg to my friend, so yes they do give the whole egg! :) You'll see the slices of pork in the upper portion of the bowl and boy....it was delicious! The tender pieces seemed to melt once placed on the tongue and it was just the right amount of saltiness as it had soaked up the broth. The broth had an interesting taste to it; it was not spicy but it had the same kick without the heat. I'm not very good with spicy foods but this was just fine as it didn't leave my mouth burning. Only a slight tingle sensation. The bowl also came with slivers of bamboo shoots which is my favorite and the fish cake tasted well..like a fish cake.

The noodles had the right amount of chewiness and it was not soggy at all. I definitely enjoyed my ramen and look forward to comparing it to Mentasu.

I had also gotten the Baked Mussels as a starter ($3.50)

I was disappointed that there was only 2 :(. I at least expected 3 mussels. These were nothing spectacular, the sauce on top wasn't as creamy and smooth as Taiko's (another japanese restaurant) I won't be getting these again.

My friend ordered the Kalbi Ribs for $7.50

Oddly, no rice came with this dish. I gave her a small bowl of my ramen to go with her meat since..well meat without some type of carb is unheard of!! (unless it's korean bbq buffet ^^) I tasted some ribs and it was nothing to be excited over either. It was a little on the fatty side and a little oily. And definitely not worth it at that price.

So overall, I was happy with my ramen. They have an extensive menu though so I would be interested in coming back and ordering some of their specials. Oki Doki is a cozy restaurant that offers a variety of asian tastes from Chinese, Vietnamese, Japanese, and Korean with a dash of fusion in some of their specials listed.

Oki Doki
3033 Bristol St # O
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(714) 540-2066

There is also a Korean Tofu place and a Japanese BBQ resturant next door to Oki Doki that seemed quite popular as well.