Slurping My Way Through Meridian: Kinya Ramen's Unexpected Comfort

I was in Meridian last weekend, mostly running around doing the kind of chores you put off all week. After a stop at Discovery Park to stretch my legs and enjoy the surprisingly decent late-afternoon sunshine, I realized I was starving. That's when I spotted Kinya Ramen. I'd heard whispers about it, nothing concrete, but something about the unassuming storefront pulled me in.

And I'm so glad it did. The place has a cozy, casual vibe. Not overly styled, just comfortable and welcoming. The menu is extensive, which can sometimes be a red flag, but I decided to trust my gut.

I started with a couple of appetizers. The Takoyaki Octopus Balls ($9.95) were perfectly crispy on the outside and delightfully chewy on the inside, drizzled with just the right amount of sauce. I also couldn't resist the Gyoza Chicken ($9.95). They were pan-fried to a golden brown and packed with flavor. I'm a sucker for a good gyoza, and these definitely delivered.

For my main course, I went straight for the ramen. So many choices! I ended up ordering the Pork Chashu Bowl ($14.95). The pork was tender, the broth rich and flavorful, and the soft-boiled egg added a creamy richness that tied everything together. It was exactly what I needed on a chilly evening.

My friend had the Okonomiyaki Seafood Pancake ($9.95). I was so jealous that I had to order one for myself! I'm glad I did; it was savory and satisfying. We ended the meal with Sesame Balls ($8.95) for a sweet treat.

What makes Kinya stand out? It's hard to pinpoint exactly. Maybe it's the quality of the ingredients, or the care that goes into each dish. Maybe it's the friendly service. Or maybe it's the fact that it feels like a genuine neighborhood spot, a place where you can relax and enjoy a good meal without any pretense.

Before heading home, I took a quick detour through Settlers' Park, just to walk off some of the ramen (and maybe admire the holiday lights). It reminded me that Meridian has a lot more to offer than just errands. If you're ever in the area, maybe after a visit to Storey Park with the kids, do yourself a favor and stop by Kinya Ramen. It might just be the highlight of your day. It definitely was for me.