Ekiben

Somehow after having Ekiben this many times I still don't have photos?! That's on me, but the food is amazing. Two types of broccoli, get them both. I think the ramen broccoli is the star if you're just looking to get one, but get both.The tofu is excellent, as is the chicken. The garlic chili oil noodles are also delightful (we get them with tofu). The portions are generous and you will have plenty of leftovers. I suggest ordering the bowls over the buns to get the most for your money.They often do pop-ups in collaboration with other businesses, but they're incredibly popular so don't hesitate to act if you're able to go early.Staff are always friendly and helpful, and the stickers on the wall and the music create a great atmosphere. There's a small area with counters if you want to eat there, but almost all of their business is carry-out.It has been, and will remain, the first place we take people when they come to visit us in Baltimore.

A long line was expected on a Saturday night in Hampden for Ekiben. The food was very spicy and flavorful, but a bit heavy and overly rich. The dining area was completely full and the humidity was like a ski lodge. No one is going to Ekiben for the ambiance however. Next time I would order less food. An entree plus app was too much for one person. I can see the appeal of the place, just be aware the heavy sauces and fried food makes for a rich meal.

Came here to say for some late night grub! Eminem is lacked in the Hampden area of the city. The entrance we used would be considered an alley in Baltimore terms, but that didn't dissuade us one bit!Three was a metered parking lot right outside the entrance, which was great given the limited parking available on the street as this is a very popular area.Upon entering, we came upon an entryway that was plastered with anime which was an unexpected surprise and created a cool vibe ambience. We chose to get our order for carryout and proceeded to order the item that has been getting a lot of good hype: the chicken sandwich! There was seating available .The staff were pleasant as we placed our order and the wait was justified as our food was cooked to order.They had a public restroom, which is a good thing, for use by its customers.Our sandwich was piping hot on a fresh roll with a delicious coating that accented the chicken just right. The pickled side item was not lost on us either: fresh, crunchy, and a great treat to go with the sandwich. Sorry I didn't get a chance to show the sandwiche, as I was half way through when I thought about it, but trust me, it was good!All in all a great place to grab a late night bite or visit for lunch/dinner. And I won't forget to show my sandwich the next time!

So I went to Ekiben after the Yelpies '24. Ironically, we were starving! I had the PHO-SPICED CHEESESTEAK EGGROLL and THE ANCHO CHILE PORK BOWL. Unfortunately, I have zero photos. The egg rolls were pretty tasty but simple. The pork bowl though?! Delicious! So many different layers of flavor. The restaurant was super quaint, but efficient. The staff were as quick and helpful. My only regret is living 30 minutes away! I definitely will be going again.

A staple in Baltimore!! Ekiben is a must try if you're coming to visit Baltimore. I usually like to get the spicy neighborhood bird bowl and not the bun version as it's a little less messy. The chicken is so juicy with a delicious sambal mayo over it. I love the addition of pickled vegetables in the bowl as it adds a nice crunch and depth of flavor to the dish. One of my favorite sides is the tempura broccoli. It's crispy while feeling fresh and light at the same time. The addition of vinegar adds a sort of freshness to the side making it addicting to eat. There is limited seating inside if you choose to eat inside. Service was quick too. You can order in person or online. I ordered in person and my food came out relatively quickly.

Come for: flavor-packed fusionEkiben has become one of my favorite go-to's for takeout over the last year or so. And honestly it's on of my favorite casual restaurants in Baltimore. Overall, it's definitely a 10.This time I placed a pickup order for the Spicy Neighborhood Bird bowl with sauce on the side but was disappointed to find the sauce missing once I arrived home. After over a dozen takeout orders, this was the first time I've had an issue. Thankfully, the chicken, fresh herbs and pickles were flavorful enough that the dish still worked--even if it was a bit dry. Bowl portions are large enough for ~2 servings. Back to what I love about this place--the Red Beans and Rice are pure magic. I literally can't order from Ekiben without having a side of these rich, spicy lentils and rice. Though I didn't order them this time, my other favorite dishes are the two shrimp bowls--Spicy Walnut Shrimp and Crispy Shrimp.

Absolutely fantastic option for lunch or dinner. What I most love is how well they season and the generous portions. They're also quite creative with the meals making it more than just tofu and rice...There are also great options for vegetarians and vegans. I'm pescatarian and tried the spicy walnut shrimp today, wonderful! It was super delicious and properly crunchy. I've also had the tofu on rice as well as the vegetarian bun sandwich. I love the spices in addition to the red lentils with Ethiopian spices, super good. I've also had both the tempura and spicy broccoli which were also flavorful and very big portions. It's almost like a carry out only place but there are small seats where you can eat inside. It's also in an alley. Service is quick and friendly.

I saw so many good reviews so I had to stop by while I was in the area. My partner and I came around 12:30 on a Saturday and it took about 15 minutes for our food to be ready. If you're planning on dining in I would recommend coming a bit earlier to beat the lunch rush, we had to wait a bit before we could find a spot to sit. We got the neighborhood bird bun and pork bao bun sandwich and both were so good! I got the spicy yardbird and they do not hold back on the spice, I was at my limit lol because of that the pork was more enjoyable eating experience I would ask for mild next time. However, I think the neighborhood bird is more worth it price wise, the size of it was the equivalent of 2 of the pork sandwiches. The bun is cut where the top bun is almost quadruple the height on the bottom bun, this makes it difficult and messy to eat. I would return, I'm curious about the bowl and appetizers.

Great Food. Never disappointed! Place is very busy, may need to order ahead so you don't have to wait a long time.

The food is absolutely incredible, bar none the most amazing Asian fusion in Baltimore. The staff are always working as quickly as possible and incredibly friendly and helpful. Seating is limited but I have never gone and been unable to find a seat -- good for smaller groups.