Jin Sushi and Ramen

Chef Hwansoo spent two decades perfecting his craft - including a journey to Japan to master ramen technique - and it shows in every bowl. The broth alone simmers for over eight hours, building the kind of umami depth that makes you want to order a second round before the first is finished. This is the kind of place where Boston-area diners keep returning, and where a short drive from Portland feels entirely reasonable.

Jin occupies a small storefront at Pepperell Square in Saco, a casual spot where the focus is entirely on the food. Sushi here means impeccably fresh catches - including a standout Maine lobster roll that leans into local waters - while the ramen menu swings from a rich pork and chicken broth to the fiery snap of their Spicy Miso. The noodles are house-made from locally sourced buckwheat flour, giving them the texture and slurp-factor that separates good ramen from the kind you remember.

Chef Hwansoo's ramen is the real draw. The broths - pork and chicken bone, spicy miso, and others - are simmered low for over eight hours to coax out profound umami. The house-made noodles, crafted from locally sourced buckwheat, provide an unparalleled texture. Guests consistently note the sushi and sashimi are equally well done, but the ramen is what makes people book the drive.

Fresh Maine seafood with traditional technique. While upholding authentic Japanese methods, Jin embraces its coastal Maine location. Expect impeccably fresh sashimi and nigiri, and the Maine lobster roll is the kind of local touch that works - not gimmicky, just a good lobster roll in a sushi context.

Excellent value for serious food. At under $30 per person, the pricing is disarmingly fair for what arrives at your table. One reviewer drove from New York specifically and noted: "Outstanding food, and excellent value." Another from London said everything was "very well done."

Quiet, low-pressure dining. The room is consistently described as quiet and calm, without the noise or ambiance pressure of trendier spots. It's a place to eat and talk, not perform.

The menu balances ramen and sushi equally. Chef Hwansoo's ramen broths are eight-hour productions - deep, clean, meant for slurping. The sushi side spans both classic nigiri and rolls that incorporate Maine catches. House-made noodles and fresh seafood are non-negotiable throughout.

• Pork and Chicken Bone Broth Ramen - Rich yet light, the house signature. Eight hours of simmering in a bowl.
• Spicy Miso Ramen - A fiery counterpoint, still anchored in umami depth.
• Maine Lobster Roll - Local lobster in a sushi context; a genuine standout.
• Cauliflower Pop - A reviewer called it unmissable; an unexpected appetizer triumph.
• Bulgogi Buns - Korean influence, noted as a must-try.
• Boneless Fried Chicken (Spicy) - One guest called it delicious, a non-sushi highlight.
• Sushi and Sashimi - Fresh catches daily; sushi flavors are consistently praised as "very special."

Guests note that portions satisfy without being heavy, and that the ramen is meant to be eaten with intention - slurping is encouraged.

The space is small and casual, with simple decor that doesn't distract from eating. One long-time diner said it best: "Don't go for the ambiance and decor, but do go for a very good meal at a very reasonable price." The room stays quiet - even when it fills, the energy is calm. Early seatings on weekend evenings find the room empty and serene. Dress is casual; the vibe is neighborhood friendly, though Boston-area diners - often driving 45 minutes to an hour - find it worth the trek for a serious meal.

Lunch: Mon–Fri 11:30 am–2:00 pm

Dinner: Mon–Thu 4:30 pm–8:00 pm · Fri, Sat 4:30 pm–9:00 pm

Closed: Sunday

The restaurant is new and still building its reputation, but early reviews suggest booking ahead on weekends if you want a guaranteed seat. Weeknight lunch is quieter. Reservations are accepted via OpenTable and by phone at (207) 284-5454. Walk-ins are accommodated when space allows, particularly early in the evening.

"Amazing. Everything was so good. Don't miss the Cauliflower Pop or the Bulgogi Buns. Only disappointment was forgetting to add egg to the ramen. We loved the sushi and sashimi too. Worth the drive." - Elizabeth, Greater Boston · 5★

"Outstanding food, and excellent value. Don't go for the ambiance and decor, but do go for a very good meal at a very reasonable price." - Roger, New York City · 5★

"Took sushi to a higher level…flavors were very special." - Linda, Greater Boston · 4★

"Great food and prices. Well worth stopping by for sushi and ramen." - TA, Greater Boston · 5★

"Excellent food. The boneless fried chicken (spicy) was delicious!" - Eric, Maine · 5★

"So delicious! We love both the sushi and the ramen. Fun birthday dinner for my husband!" - Kris, Greater Boston · 5★

Honest notes: Ambiance scores run lower than food (3.6 vs. 4.9), reflecting the simple, casual decor. One reviewer explicitly cautioned that the space is utilitarian. This is not a restaurant designed for romance or celebration visuals - it's designed for eating well. Service is consistent and friendly, though two reviews noted minor oversights (forgetting ramen add-ons). Neither affected the overall experience meaningfully.

Jin occupies Pepperell Square in Saco, a small downtown area about 20 minutes north of Old Orchard Beach and roughly 45 minutes south of Portland. The drive from greater Boston is consistently noted as worthwhile by guests.

• From Portland: 45 min drive south via I-295 and Route 1.
• From Boston area: 90 min drive northeast; reviewers make the trip regularly.
• Walking distance: Saco's downtown has modest dining and retail; Pepperell Square is walkable from the town center.
• Day-trip pairing: Combine with Old Orchard Beach (20 min south) for a beach-and-food outing.
• Parking: Street parking available on Pepperell Square and surrounding blocks.

Is it reservation-only, or do walk-ins work? Reservations are recommended, especially weekends and evenings, but walk-ins are accommodated when space allows. Book via OpenTable or call (207) 284-5454.

What's the dress code? Casual dress. Jeans, sneakers, and everyday clothes fit the setting perfectly.

Are there vegetarian or vegan options? The menu leans heavily meat and seafood, but the vegetable appetizers (Cauliflower Pop) and sashimi variety suggest flexibility. Call ahead if dietary restrictions are strict.

Is it kid-friendly? Yes. The restaurant is tagged as kid-friendly, and casual dining in a quiet room makes it suitable for families. Ramen and sushi appeal to many kids, though the heat level of some broths should be considered.

How far is it from Portland? About 45 minutes south via I-295 and Route 1. Boston-area diners report the drive as worthwhile.

What's the parking situation? Street parking is available on and around Pepperell Square. No dedicated lot, but spots are generally available.

What's the price range? Under $30 per person, making it exceptional value for the quality of food.