Susuru: Where Orlando Meets Quirky Izakaya Charm

Forget cookie-cutter chains and predictable menus, Orlando foodies. Nestled in a nondescript shopping center lies Susuru,a hidden gem that transports you straight to the backstreets of Tokyo. Don’t let the unassuming exterior fool you – this quaint izakaya packs a punch of flavor and atmosphere that will quickly have you slurping ramen and downing drinks.

Imagine stepping into your favorite anime, where warm lantern light bathes vintage posters and friendly chatter fills the air. That’s Susuru. The open bar buzzes with energy, while the intimate dining area feels like a secret hangout for ramen-obsessed heroes. And the staff? They’re like welcoming characters themselves, greeting you with genuine smiles and knowledge that puts even the most seasoned foodie at ease.

Now, onto the main event: the food! We went all-in on a flavor frenzy, starting with the yuzu street corn. Think Mexican street corn’s vibrant cousin, kissed with yuzu mayo, nori flakes, and a spicy togarashi kick. It’s the kind of starter that explodes with freshness and makes you question why any corn ever came plain.

For a lighter touch, the truffle sesame tuna was a revelation. Seared tuna, swimming in a light sesame dressing with hints of black garlic and truffle oil, was so delicate and delicious, it cleansed the palate like a whispered haiku.

But let’s be real, you’re here for the ramen, right? And Susuru does not disappoint. The tonkatsu black ramen is a symphony of rich, 12-hour-thickened broth, melt-in-your-mouth pork chasu, and a black garlic oil whisper that adds depth without stealing the show. It’s the kind of ramen that makes you close your eyes and sigh with pure, umami happiness.

We devoured the susuru chasu gohan, too. Braised pork belly, glazed in sweet aged soy, piled on fluffy steam rice – it’s comfort food elevated to an art form. And just when you think you can’t possibly eat another bite, the Godzilla drink arrives, a refreshingly tart blast of yuzu sochu, passion fruit, and lemonade.

Okay, so one small hiccup: the gyoza were MIA (apparently 86ed early), leaving a void in our hearts (and stomachs) reserved for those little potstickers of perfection. But that’s a minor blip in an otherwise stellar experience. Even the tori paitan ramen, while a bit bland for our tastebuds, was well-constructed with a yuzu chicken chasu.

Bottom line: Susuru is Orlando’s quirky izakaya gem. It’s got the friendly charm, the anime-worthy atmosphere, and the food that’ll have you slurping, sighing, and planning your next visit before you even finish your ramen. So grab your chopsticks,  and head to Susuru – you won’t regret it (unless you miss out on those gyoza, then maybe a tiny bit).

P.S. Don’t forget to check their open hours – no reservations here, just walk-ins like intrepid ramen heroes!

P.P.S. Bonus points for anyone who spots an anime reference in the decor (we found a Totoro poster!). Tag us in your Susuru snaps and let us know what ramen dreams you conquered!