From the outside, Ramen Chidori doesn't look like it would claim awards for one of the best restaurants in Tauranga. But you know what they say, never just a book by its cover!

They're an authentic Japanese noodle restaurant. You'll find all the usual ramen suspects here, complete with melt-in-your-mouth chashu pork, chewy bamboo shoots and creamy, soft-boiled eggs. But also make sure to order their takoyaki octopus balls, karaage fried chicken, fresh dumplings and steaming edamame beans.

The cherry on top of this already delicious cake is that their staff are some of the friendliest people I've ever met, and their dishes are incredibly kind to your wallet. $16.50 for the best ramen I've ever had? Sign me up.