Kizuki Ramen and Izakaya

11830 NW Cedar Falls Drive, 844-585-2487, kizuki.com. Lunch and dinner daily.

Don't hate Kizuki (formerly Kukai) because it's part of a chain—albeit one based in Japan, with outposts in Oregon and three other states. Don't hate it, either, for its location in a swanky strip mall so new the paint is barely dry. Embrace it for the deep flavors of soy, miso and fish deeply distilled in the broths. The shoyu ramen ($8), thick with greens and a flavorful slab of pork is a great introduction to the ramen portion of the menu. From the spinach goma-ae ($4), a small mountain of steamed spinach slathered with a subtle sesame dressing will make you feel good about healthy eating and great about spending time in the wilds of unincorporated Washington County.

Check out Willamette Week's 2016 Cheap Eats guide here.

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