Ani Ramen in Cranford, New Jersey is always a hit. I ordered my go-to dish, the short rib ramen with a six-minute egg, and it was pure deliciousness in every bite. The short rib is consistently tender and flavorful, and the six-minute egg is perfectly soft with just the right amount of richness. The service is always great, and the food comes out quickly--there's never a long wait, which makes the experience even better. The ambiance has a hip, modern Asian flair that adds to the vibe and makes it a fun place to dine. Consistently excellent food, great service, and a cool atmosphere. I'll definitely be back--again and again. read more

Ani Ramen House - Short Rib Ramen - Ramen Near Me - Cranford, New Jersey

First of all, the wagyu ramen was like nothing I ever had before. I HAD to take it to go because it was so filling. John the server gave us the sweetest service and was considerate of it being my first time at the establishment. Will definitely be back. Love it! I got a new favorite for sure... read more

Ani Ramen House - Ramen Near Me - Cranford, New Jersey

Ani Ramen House's Cranford location is on the corner of Walnut and Chestnut on the ground floor of the apartments at The Albero. The main entrance is next to the kitchen, which is designed for food delivery and takeout operations. The L-shaped dining room wraps around the kitchen and offers an impressive amount of seating for 80 people with ample natural lighting. The interior decor follows the same rigid industrial wood and metal aesthetic that almost every new hipstery restaurant chain has subscribed to for the past decade. In case you've forgotten that ramen is Japanese, you'll also see neon signs on the walls illuminating some common Japanese phrases (although without furigana). Two gendered restrooms are located left of the kitchen in the far corner of the building and each have two stalls and one sink. I ordered the Tokyo Shoyu Ramen with a side of Chili Charred Brussels for takeout. I placed the order 30 minutes in advance and it was ready at the scheduled pickup time. The Chili Charred Brussels were about five halved sprouts that were steamed and lightly sauteed with a light sprinkling of mustard greens and pepper flakes. I actually enjoyed these more than the ramen I ordered, but they did not have much noticeable charring (or the caramelization that comes with charring). I had a very difficult time enjoying the Tokyo Shoyu Ramen, which is the first item on the ramen menu. The dry ingredients are packaged in the main serving bowl and the broth in a separate plastic takeout container for you to combine yourself. The main attraction of the Tokyo Shoyu Ramen is the three massive slabs of braised pork, which did not disappoint. I tried some of dry ingredients first before drowning them in liquid, although I could not find any bean sprouts. The noodles were slightly undercooked, possibly to compensate for the hot broth. Everything kind of went downhill after I added the shoyu broth. Although the shoyu did impart flavor to the meat and ramen, it was so overwhelmingly salty that it was completely undrinkable by itself. After finishing the noodles, I felt like I was sipping boiled dipping sauce. If chicken broth was in the mix, I certainly couldn't taste it. This is particularly concerning because half of the ramen menu contains this same shoyu tare, and will most likely be too overpowering for most people. In retrospect, I should have ordered the brothless mazemen ramen. The food preparation, while adequate, seemed a bit rushed based on what I ate. Perhaps 30 minutes was not enough lead time for the kitchen, or perhaps this is just how Ani Ramen makes its food. While I appreciate that Ani has helped make ramen more accessible in Central Jersey, it's probably not my first choice for ramen or any of the eclectic side dishes on the menu, e.g. brussels sprouts, kimchi, and gua bao (none of which are Japanese). read more

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Went back( got to try everything twice, right?) and wow, what a difference. Maybe my last visit was just an off day, because this time everything worked really well together. The shoyu broth, the veggies, and the crispy tofu option all hit the right notes. Thanks for proving me wrong! read more

I have been to this place a few times! I hadn't been in a while but I have been under the weather and yesterday I actually was starting to have an appetite and wanted some good bao buns! This place never fails the buns are so soft and flavorful. We got the pork belly bao buns, kimchi bao buns, my grandson loves all things noodles he got the chicken broth base with noodles. I only managed to get a pic of the pork belly bao buns. Definitely check it out. read more

Ani Ramen House - Pork belly bao Pork Belly Buns - Ramen Near Me - Cranford, New Jersey

So I finally made it back to Ani Ramen after moving out of state 2 years ago! Had to stop by during my NJ visit because I've been craving their ramen and pork buns like crazy. First off - Cranford location all the way over Summit. Summit's parking is just absolutely terrible, but Cranford is right in downtown on this little side street where you can actually find a spot without wanting to pull your hair out. Plus the restaurant itself is huge and super bright with those big windows everywhere. OK so here's the thing - if you don't have their app yet, get it NOW. I had points saved up from before I moved and ended up getting one order of free buns, free ramen bowl, AND $5 off my bill. Like seriously, just download it and start earning points because it actually pays off. I ordered the Mazeman with egg (obviously) and did my usual thing where I order the chef's special broth on the side to mix with the noodles. Trust me on this one, it makes it so much better. And don't worry about it being too spicy - honestly I don't think the chef's special broth is spicy at all. The pork belly bun was solid as always. Actually all their buns are good but I'm partial to the pork ones and the panko shrimp ones. Man, being back here just reminded me how much I missed this place. Definitely stopping by again next time I'm in town! read more

Ani Ramen House - Mazemen - Ramen Near Me - Cranford, New Jersey

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I've been here about 10 times. Everything I've ordered has been great. The edamame is still my favorite - the best edamame I've ever had. The only shortcoming remains the service. Tonight our party of 3 was largely ignored. No water refills. No checking up to see how everything is going. Even when we tried twice to get our waitress' attention, her back was usually turned towards us. We're always generous tippers but it was really hard to give her more than 15%. And they appeared adequately staffed. C'mon Ani Ramen, you've got to work on that. read more

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Excellent spot for ramen! I've tried the three main ramen bowls and enjoy the chefs special the most. The boa buns are an absolute must! The atmosphere is really spacious and hipster. Would definitely recommend. It is BYOB but there is a liquor store next door. Service is great, we had to wait a little and they offered us a free appetizer, which was really generous. Will be back! read more

Ani Ramen House - Chef's Special Ramen - Ramen Near Me - Cranford, New Jersey

When I tell you this place didn't disappoint. I went after class and left sooo full. I had tried cucumber salad not bad as well as grilled shrimp soooo good then I had wagyu bowl I cudny even finish but every dish was better than the next. I will be back. The service was great I went on Thursday it wasn't too pack and they have outdoor seating as well. The building is decent size also you can byob even tho we didn't I'll make sure I do it next time. read more

This is a place I have rated 5 stars in the past, but it seems they are cutting back on the quality and size. Service is still great. I had the $15 lunch special which comes with a bao bun and choice of ramen. I got the pork belly bao bun and it was very good. As far as the ramen is concerned it has gone downhill. First of all it comes in a smaller bowl than it used to. Secondly it comes with less ingredients and less robust ones than it used to. It used to come with an egg, now it's an up charge. It used to come with bamboo shoots and mushrooms. Not anymore. They are substituting cut up cabbage for those ingredients. Still had pork belly. The ramen noodles also have changed to an inferior quality. Soup is still tasty, but the changes are certainly disappointing. May be looking for a new go to lunch spot when I'm in the area. read more

Ani Ramen House - Spicy Ramen - Ramen Near Me - Cranford, New Jersey

Upon first impression, the interior was nicely decorated and there was plenty of seating. It felt spacious and welcoming. We were kindly greeted when we walked in and the service was quick. Extra points for service because someone in my party has an allergy and the server was super attentive and made efforts to double check for any allergens with the chef. I ordered the Sapporo Spicy Miso which was delicious and I appreciated the thick cuts of pork belly. It is a bit on the pricier end compared to other ramen shops, but I felt that it was reasonable given the portion size of the bowl. I definitely plan on coming back! P.S. I forgot his name (sorry) but whoever the server was on the night of 8/31, he was phenomenal! read more

Good but not great food and a little on the pricey side for what it is. I would put this in the 'I need ramen now and don't want to look everywhere' category read more

The restaurant is very clean, ambiance is great and welcoming for all guests. Im just not a fan of the Ramen, it was mid at best

Absolutely amazing ramen. It was my first time having ramen because I wasn't a fan of noodles but now I am because of it! Great atmosphere too there. read more

Excellent service and food! Wings are outstanding! The pork belly buns and the burnt pork ends also!!

Very cute and trendy place in Cranford. I think its a great local spot for anyone whose close to the area but may not necessarily be worth traveling far for. Otherwise I have no complaints!! For apps, we always get the cucumbers to break up flavors and textures. The hoisin with the shishito peppers was weird at first but we kept going back for more hoisin! The best app hands down were the kurobuta sausages. One of the best in NJ! For our meals my wife got the shoyu ramen which isn't quite the traditional style, but had some fresh tasting ingredients. I ended up with the pulled pork don buri which was pretty good for the price. We ended up ordering a second pork don buri and a couple of kurobuta sausages to-go for our late night munchies^^ Great place, nice vibes and excellent staff. Would definitely try again if I ever find myself in the area. read more

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Another great meal at Ani last weekend! Wanted to update with a picture of their amazing soy glazed wings. read more

Ani Ramen House - Wings (dine in only) - Ramen Near Me - Cranford, New Jersey

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It's just bussin , it depends which one you go to the one in cranford New Jersey , the service there is terrible , they font

ordered food tonight for delivery. waited an hour only to get the wrong order with just one ramen dish (not even the kind we ordered) for a family of 5! I called the restaurant repeatedly and kept getting voice mail and the box is full and not taking any more messages. terrible experience tonight we are all starving! read more

I was immediately welcomed by a friendly hostess. The service was pretty attentive and there were a few other patrons in the restaurant. Hip-hop drummed in the background but it wasn't so loud that I would not be able to here others at the table. It was a fun and lively vibe. I ordered the pork belly bun and the soy glazed chicken and rice bowl. A complementary bowl of marinated cucumbers was provided. I cannot say I was impressed with anything. The food was good enough but not noteworthy. The pork belly seemed reheated and the fat was not rendered enough to make the skin crisp. The chicken was flavorful and tender. I liked the glaze a lot but the chicken was very fatty and I mistook it for pork ribs. It was a nice experience and I appreciated how hard the staff worked. The food left me underwhelmed though. read more

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Simple Menu. Tried the Shoyu Ramen. Ramen was out fast. Came with complimentary veggies which is a plus. Service was also fast, and polite. Ambiance is chill "lol" lots of light and this place is good for groups. Overall: 8.5/10 Con: Price read more

Ani Ramen House - SHOYU RAMEN - Ramen Near Me - Cranford, New Jersey

Geat food good atmosphere. Staff was great! Pork anything here rocks! Good for lunch first date or fun dinner read more

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Hands down best ramen in Cranford. Pork buns are a must, gyoza is a must, and of course my go-to--Shoyu ramen.

I have been to Ani Ramen in both Summit and Cranford. They're consistent. I am not big on Ramen, so I skip the ramen and go for the appetizers. The bao (chicken, shrimp) are always a hit, I love the sauce (has a spicy kick but not too spicy for me). The chicken skewers are great, I have gotten them several times for my kids (easy, on the go food- we often get takeout, grab bubble tea next door, and then walk to the clock by track 5 in Cranford and eat there). The edamame is always great too. I've had their wings and other appetizers, they're quite filling. Definitely download their app!! You get coupons (save 20%, free bao order, etc). It's worth it! read more

Ani Ramen House - Shrimp Buns - Ramen Near Me - Cranford, New Jersey

I stopped by this ramen house in need of something new & tasty & I found just that. Not only does the restaurant have a cozy vibe, the staff is also very kind and attentive. So much so, I came here twice within the first week of me trying the restaurant out. The miso chicken wings are definitely an appetizer worth trying- the flavors are there & the chicken was perfectly crispy. The shrimp bao buns were just as good, but the wings stood out more as an appetizer. The main event was the soup & boy was it good. I enjoyed bout the spicy miso & the chefs special, and to me personally, the base wasn't spicy at all. I swapped out the original pork meat for chicken & added an egg & my meal was perfect. However, I do think there could be an increase on the portion size of the noodles- but I could be biased cause I love noodles lol. Overall, I enjoyed my dining experience- my waitress was very nice, & the food was too good. This is a place you definitely won't stop coming to when you're craving ramen. read more

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Not authentic. Only chicken broth options and only five different soup options. The menu seems extremely limited. Tea bags. Saw one asian chef. Dirty bathroom. Good service. Pass! read more

Tried Ani Ramen in Cranford and absolutely LOVED it! Town is super cute. Service is on point. The broth in the ramen is the most flavorful broth I've ever tasted and it was excellent! Wings and bao buns are also a must! Can't wait to try all the locations! read more

Very good service, excellent food, and best taste of food with all the flavors, bathroom is very good, and perfect AC not too cold, it looks beautiful. read more

Servers were adorable, friendly, and present. Super chill fun open space. The ramen makes you glow incandescent. Loved this futuristic place! Ride or die. I'm here to stay. Shoyu with black garlic oil woooo! Comforting me on a cold rainy day. Hey robot, can I holla at you? #rosiejetson read more

Ani Ramen House - Shoyu Ramen - Ramen Near Me - Cranford, New Jersey

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We went to the greenhouse in the middle of February. I was slightly skeptical because I've never tried one of these. Turned out it was an awesome experience. Very warm (due to a space heater). I also felt like I was out to dinner, but very safe from COVID. It was a nice blend of both worlds, and I think it's a very good solution. Now to the food - delicious!! We both got the vegan ramen (and added an egg...So not totally vegan for us). It was delicious! A little on the expensive side for soup, but I was totally full after it, so I can't complain. Great flavor, and would definitely come back. Service was awesome! Very nice and helpful. read more

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In summary an over priced noodle spot. Wouldn't call this ramen. The taste and texture was completely different to legit ramen. We shared a few of the flavors and didn't really like any of them. On the plus side they do have individual enclosed areas for covid outdoor dining read more

Ani Ramen House - Ramen Near Me - Cranford, New Jersey

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I am a fan of Ani Ramen's other locations so I was happy that another location opened up closer to me. It is BYO which is a plus! They also do delivery and takeout for COVID times. Their ramen never disappoints! I went with the Chef's special which was very flavorful. I'd definitely come back or place an order for pick up. read more

Ani Ramen House - Pork buns - Ramen Near Me - Cranford, New Jersey

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Love a taste of Ani Ramen! All the food is high quality! Their Bao buns are outstanding, their Ramen is delicious and the service is quick! Eat in for cool, city-like vibes or take out to experience yummy food from the comfort of your home. The deliciousness is always the same. read more

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I will forever say I love Ani Ramen and it's. As they continue to expand, they are great additions to every area. From the vibe to the delicious ramen, I literally cannot complain. I hide notice recently that some of the toppings for the ramen have changed and I can't say that I am in pleased. I think they better compliment the ramen than previous toppings. That's the beauty of watching restaurant chains grow, you get to see them evolve menu items which worked/didn't. My go to items are typically the spicy miso ramen and either shrimp/pork buns BUT recently I had the chef special ramen and it's making me switch my opinion. It was awesome! The flavor of the ginger and garlic lowkey changed my life. So with that said, again, every menu item is delicious. The staff is always polite, the food always leaves you wanting more, and the price is reasonable. If you haven't yet, definitely stop in to skip, slurp, and repeat. read more

Order: - Pork Belly Bao - No. 1 Shoyu Pros: - Very quick service ~ our food came out very quickly and there wasn't much of a wait - Nice and open indoor dining set up - Outdoor seating area with the good heaters Cons: - Kinda basic ramen ~ it was good but nothing TOO special Overall: Decent tasting ramen with very quick service read more

Ani Ramen House - Pork Buns - Ramen Near Me - Cranford, New Jersey

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Ani Ramen provided a delightful ramen experience. The flavors were decent, only capturing the essence of just a good bowl of ramen. The service was prompt and friendly, contributing to a positive atmosphere. While it was a great dining experience, there's always room for that extra touch to make it exceptional. Solid four stars! P.S. BAO BUNS WAS PRETTY GOOD.. I HAD BETTER THO read more

Ani Ramen House - Bao buns - Ramen Near Me - Cranford, New Jersey

Ani Ramen House is a mall food court-style chain restaurant. I came here for lunch on Saturday afternoon. I walk in, and the maitre d tells me I have to put on a mask to walk to my table, literally ten feet away from where I was standing. Needless to say, no one else in the place was masked, other than the servers. I put on the mask, walked the four steps to my table, took off the mask. The menu consists of five ramen bowls, 4 types of bao buns, 3 donburi bowls, and some miscellanous side dishes and add-ons. I started with the pork belly bao buns which were good. The buns were fluffy, and the pork belly tender, although rather lean. Next, I got the soy-glazed chicken donburi. There were three pieces of nicely-cooked chicken over a bed of rice garnished with a few shreds of kale and garnished with pickled vegetables. Donburi usually has sautéed onions and a cooked egg on top, but that's not how they make it here. I had to ask for soy sauce, since there are no condiments on the table. The server brought me a small dish with one tablespoon of soy sauce. No charge! The food was tasty, but the portions are small. read more

Ani Ramen House - pork bao buns - Ramen Near Me - Cranford, New Jersey

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If you're looking for authentic ramen, you've come to the right spot! Food is delicious - the buns and wings are some of our favorites to order. Service is always amazing! Definitely recommend this restaurant read more

Brothless ramen for the win! I don't like a lot of liquid on my food so I ordered a side of the spicy broth. Very flavorful. The brothless ramen was actually pretty good and moist without the broth. Add an order of shrimp bao and you're all set here. Service was great. Very friendly and helpful when placing an order. read more

Ani Ramen House - Mazemen - Ramen Near Me - Cranford, New Jersey

My friend and I stopped by for lunch. We decided it was too hot outside for ramen so we wanted to get bao buns instead. I had the pork belly bao buns and she got the shrimps ones. We were both very happy with our choices! I really loved the pork belly bao buns, they were very tasty and hit the spot! I also really enjoyed the edamame, the chili oil on them was very good. I would definitely return! read more

Ani Ramen House - Edamame - Ramen Near Me - Cranford, New Jersey

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