I think Sapporo-Ya in SF isn’t as good as it was 20 years ago—but definitely worth reviewing still.  Be sure to take a photo of the noodle making machine out front.

IMHO, one of the best ramen shops on the West Coast is in Vancouver—a place called Kintaro Ramen on Denman St.  The place needs ventilation, but the ramen is excellent.  There are lots of other good noodle shops up in Vancouver if you ever get a chance to visit.

Can I also put one down for the “do not bother” list?  Zao Noodle Bar has been popping up in the Bay Area—yuppy/trendy noodle house that completely lacks the noodling spirit.  It brings bad name to not just ramen but all noodle kinds....