Oh boy oh boy! So happy to have a ramen place again in Mililani Mauka!
Just so happen I saw on my facebook feed that they're doing a soft opening today, so I decided to check them out. They're located in the same building as Poke Stop and took the spot that was formerly Mililani Mauka Chinese Restaurant. Just so happen adjacent to that spot was Genki Ramen 2, which I believe had the same owner as Mililani Mauka Chinese which both closed during the beginning of the pandemic lockdowns in 2020.
Coming into Rakumen, I noticed they were already busy making takeout orders. But I wanted to dine in and they seated me quickly. My first impression of their service so far is great. There was about three front of the house staff running around, and while they were busy taking orders and handling takeout, they still quickly checked in on me and refilled my water and fruit punch. I was surprised how attentive they were and I hope they'll continue to have that energy far after their first opening day.
Getting to ordering, I wanted to try their tan tan ramen and beef curry rice. Personally, these dishes are how I measure the quality of ramen places here on the island. So far, most ramen places I've been to have given me somewhat bland tan tan ramen. Today, I was pleasantly surprised that their tan tan broth had flavor. However, I kind of like spice so I still had to add chili oil lol. As for the beef curry, it seems about similar in taste as other places. Oh and one thing I forgot to mention, when I was first placing my order, I ordered their tan tan and a mini beef curry. My server however, suggested getting Combo A and picking the mini beef curry as part of the combo and that I can upgrade from the regular ramen to tan tan for a little extra. This way she said I could save some money and get extra. So instead of just getting the tan tan and curry separately, the combo got me both plus gyoza! By my surprise I didn't know they also did happy hour specials, and since it was about 3:30pm I got an extra 4 pieces of gyoza with my order for free! I thought it was really awesome of my server to make that recommendation. I find most other places just take orders without acknowledging other options, so I really appreciate the service they gave me today.
Also, while I did not order any, I'd like to mention that they offer milktea and slushie drinks. I decided to pass on that today since I'm not big on milkteas, but thought it was cool that they offered those drinks.
Lastly, I want to mention that this place looks great for groups. They got the space and half the area is set for tables of six seats and the other side with tables of four seats, so come check them out and bring your family or a bunch of your friends! read more