Craving ramen that doesn’t come from a Styrofoam cup? Elk Grove’s Tanuki Izakaya & Ramen is here to upgrade your noodle game. Tucked into Suite 125 on Elk Grove Blvd, this spot isn’t just slinging broth—it’s delivering flavor-packed bowls of joy alongside crispy karaage chicken, smoky skewers, and a vibe that’ll make you want to linger.
Ramen That Speaks to Your Soul
Let’s talk ramen. At Tanuki Izakaya & Ramen, this isn’t the instant stuff you survived on in college. This is the real deal—rich broths simmered to perfection, noodles with just the right amount of chew, and toppings that take the dish to the next level. Whether you’re into a classic tonkotsu or something with a spicy kick, there’s a bowl here with your name on it.
And let’s not forget the attention to detail. Every ingredient feels like it was chosen with care—because it was. Every bite is an event, from the tender slices of pork belly to the perfectly soft-boiled egg that oozes golden yolk into the broth.
The Izakaya Vibe: Small Plates, Big Flavor
But ramen is only half the story here. Tanuki also serves up izakaya-style dishes—Japanese small plates perfect for sharing (or not sharing, no judgment here). Think crispy karaage chicken that’s juicy on the inside and golden perfection on the outside. Or maybe some grilled skewers that pack all the smoky goodness you didn’t know you were craving.
The menu is built for exploration. Order a few plates for the table and let everyone dig in—or hoard them all for yourself if you’re feeling greedy (again, no judgment). Either way, you’ll wonder how they packed so much flavor into bite-sized portions.
A Schedule Worth Planning Around
Tanuki Izakaya & Ramen knows how to keep things fresh without overwhelming you with options. Their hours are straightforward:
- Tuesday through Thursday: 11 AM–2:30 PM for lunch, 5 PM–9 PM for dinner
- Friday and Saturday: 12 PM–2:30 PM for lunch, 5 PM–10 PM for dinner
- Sunday: 12 PM–8 PM (because Sundays deserve good food too)
- Monday: Closed (even ramen masters need a break)
Pro tip: Get there early during peak hours, as this place fills up fast—and for good reason.
Why Tanuki?
Sure, there are plenty of places to grab food in Elk Grove, but Tanuki Izakaya & Ramen stands out because they’ve nailed the balance between quality and comfort. The space is cozy without feeling cramped, and it’s clear that they’ve put thought into creating an atmosphere where people can relax and enjoy their meals.
And let’s talk about service—it’s friendly without being overbearing. The staff knows their menu inside and out, so don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations if you’re feeling indecisive (or overwhelmed by how good everything sounds).
Perfect for Any Occasion
Date night? Group hangout? Solo lunch? Tanuki fits the bill every time. The menu is versatile enough to satisfy everyone at your table—even that one friend who’s “not really into Japanese food” (they’ll change their mind after one bite).
And if you’re not in the mood to dine in? No problem—Tanuki makes it easy to order online through their website so you can enjoy their delicious offerings from the comfort of your couch. Just don’t forget to grab some extra napkins because things might get messy—in the best way possible.
Final Thoughts? Just Go Already!
There’s no need to overthink this one—Tanuki Izakaya & Ramen is where good food meets good vibes in Elk Grove. So this is your spot whether you’re craving a steaming bowl of ramen or a spread of shareable plates that’ll make your Instagram followers jealous. Just don’t blame us when you find yourself returning again…and again…and again.
Sources: order.toasttab.com, yelp.com, exploreelkgrove.com, Tanuki Izakaya & Ramen Facebook Page, Tanuki Izakaya & Ramen Instagram Page
Header Image Source: yelp.com
