Platform Z

An impromptu lunch date with my partner was a good opportunity to try this renewed local spot! The folks who run the place are super nice and attentive, definitely family-run, and because of that I am going to do what I can to support this local business because we don't need another chain joint in our area. And good on them for taking a risk on Bala village where few retail businesses have been willing to invest.Similar vibe inside to when it was Trails End but they have opened up all of the internal space for dining so plenty of options to sit inside on a cold day. Lots of take-out snacks and drinks are available for trail users, including a nice selection of iced cream bars, coffee, bars, etc.On to the food. I absolutely love ramen, so honestly, I'm happy to have someplace in our neighborhood where I can get a decent bowl. Overall everything was good. Solid bowl of homemade ramen. Not at the level of places like Hiro or Terakawa, but not at all flat and the noodles were well cooked. I got it with shrimp tempura which came with 2 small but super crunchy shrimp that went well with the soup. Also, I got an order of takoyaki which actually was surprisingly yummy. Good texture and flavor came on a nice little bed of lettuce. Again, not the best takoyaki ever, but still pretty yummy. Was happy with the milk tea I got, tasted home-brewed and they got my sugar level just right. The tapioca was just ok. My spouse got a creme brulé bubble tea which was similar to mine but with a custardyness to it that I was jealous of. For a small shop run by 2 people that sells a lot of different things in a super odd location in Bala, this place surprised me with how good it was. I'm giving it 5 stars because they are new and are still building the business and getting the kinks out. I really do think this place can become awesome if people keep going and give them feedback to allow them to make it even better. I wonder if having so many options (poke, ramen, etc) is hurting them as people are used to either going to a poke place or a ramen place. Is it possible to do both types of food really well, maybe. But honestly, I think if they chose one and really nailed it, this place would take off. My vote is for ramen, but that's just because I'm not big on poke and there are already a number of sushi spots in our area. Overall, if you live in the area, and have a craving for some poke, ramen, or bubble tea. Please, support them, and help them get even better! I'm rooting for Platform Z!

I came here on a whim after Fat Tuna was closed and was instantly smitten. Platform Z is located in what appears to be a train station. The interior and exterior are very cutely decorated and there are a few different rooms you can sit in - so, you can have as much privacy as you would like. I got the shrimp ramen and enjoyed it. I liked how tender the bamboo shoots in the ramen where.

Please find ways to frequent and support this little hidden gem! Whether it's for a healthy lunch or a cup of coffee off the Cynwyd Heritage trail. An absolute delight!

Great, fresh poke bowl items and a gorgeous place to grab a bite and eat outside or in. Right off the trail!

Tried the latest spot at the Cynwyd Station. This mother-daughter cafe features poke bowls, ramen, and bubble tea but still serves all the espresso drinks of its two predecessors. I had the ramen bowl for dinner and found it flavorful and filling. I also had a good-tasting espresso for $3. They sunk a good amount of money renovating the place, but it still has a sitting room in the station, and there are several tables to sit down and eat. Despite this family giving their time and money to the community, the powers-that-be still restrict signage so that the many cars that drive by would have no idea that just below the street level, in this historic train station, another family struggles to be seen. So if you live in the area and you want the option of a cafe, make it a point to stop by. And if you're just driving along Montgomery or Conshocken State, stop by the station and have yourself some good food at a reasonable price.

Definitely a place that caters to the non-traditional. I think the location will keep it in business but I did not like that you couldn't control how much ice or sweetness which I believed was a standard in boba drinks. The service person did not know what he was doing so I was thankful when the other person showed up and assisted. It is too non-traditional for me, but you might like it.

Absolutely great place to stop, picturesque setting, really fresh ingredients, lovely staff - just ate there and will be back. Happy to see a new eatery moved into the space and Platform Z is an absolute winner.

I had the ramen the other day. The ambiance is amazing! Outdoor and indoor seating. Reasonable prices with fresh veggies. Great service!

Great hidden spot for Ramen and coffee. Tofu Ramen was very good and a large size. Plenty of noodles and veggies. Both indoor seating and outdoor seating by the train tracks available. Give it a try!

Delicious!! I don't usually like ramen, but I loved the ramen here. Ambience inside is also nice and cozy.