The Room
Jonathan Cheon opened Sakuramen on 18th Street in 2013 — a Japanese-Korean ramen counter dedicated to a serious tonkotsu programme. The format is intentionally non-fine-dining: a counter, communal-leaning seating, an open kitchen.
Eater DC has held Sakuramen on its top-Adams-Morgan rankings every year of operation.
The Food
The tonkotsu programme runs the menu's centre. The Korean-influenced bibimbap, the seasonal-rotating Asian preparations handle the menu's wider draws.
Beer programme runs Asian-import. Service is counter-and-runner.
Best Occasion Fit
Solo Dining: The counter at Sakuramen is one of DC's most-reliable solo-dining ramen seats.
First Date: The communal tables at Sakuramen are a casual first-date alternative.
Team Dinner: Sakuramen handles team lunches better than most Adams Morgan counters.