Ren's Ramen

I walked into Ren's Ramen looking for a winter miracle. I walked out with a $16 reminder that heat and comfort are not the same thing. It was one of those Wheaton nights where the cold feels personal. Snow on the ground, air sharp enough to humble you. We literally walked there, which means the bar is automatically higher. Ramen after a cold walk isn’t just food, it’s supposed to be a rescue scene. The bowl is supposed to hug you back….But it didn’t. The wait was long enough to write a small memoir in the lobby. About 20 minutes, maybe more. And waiting is fine if the bowl shows up with a payoff. If the story lands. If the first sip makes you forgive everything. So I went straight for the broth. First sip is the truth serum.
And the truth was simple. It was average. Not terrible. Not me

We got the stamina bowl and bakudan ramen. Both were super good. The bakudan ramen wasn’t unbearably spicy which I was happy about. We also got the curry bun and gyoza which were warm and delicious. Definitely recommend this place!

My go to ramen for years now. Their ramen always hits the spot. Service could be a bit more welcoming and some don’t really speak english, but i respect their culture. The ramen, edamame, and mochi for dessert is the best combo for when you’re craving something comforting.

This is the worst ramen place I've ever been to. I felt compelled to write a bad review. I ordered the Stamina Ramen. The broth was mediocre, like they used instant ramen's packet. The portion was hilariously small. The total amount of pork wasn't even half an ounce. The way they made the poached egg... How should I say it? It was worse than what my dad could do and he doesn't even know how to cook! All of that for $18. Insane!

This is a small, authentic ramen shop owned by Japanese people from Sapporo. All ramen shops I’ve been to in Japan are cozy like this shop. I got the Sapporo ramen. The broth is rich and flavorful. It is a little salty, but I like salt so it’s ok. The egg costs extra but is just the way I like it, soft boiled and marinated in soy/mirin. I thought there could be more pork, there’s only one piece. You can ask for additional pork, but it costs more. Service is quick and friendly. I found parking on the street easily. I wouldn’t drive super far out of my way to come here, but it was good.