Table to Stix Ramen
Authentic Japanese Ramen and Small Bites Restaurant
Table to Stix is a ramen shop in Evanston, Illinois, known for serving authentic Japanese ramen and small bites. The restaurant was established in 2015 and quickly became a local favorite for its rich broths, fresh ingredients, and friendly atmosphere Table to Stix offers a variety of ramen bowls, steamed buns, and appetizers, all prepared with care to provide a comforting dining experience
How It All Started
Table to Stix Ramen was born out of the idea of the natural flow of ramen from the pot to the Table and then to the chopsticks This progression is a common part of life in Asia, and it stuck with the founders It felt like the perfect way to approach the restaurant: keep things simple, focus on quality, and create a space where people could relax and enjoy. The name "Table to Stix" came from that very vision, representing the whole journey of ramen, from kitchen to Table, and finally, to the chopsticks or "stix "
When Table to Stix opened in October 2015, it was the first ramen shop in Evanston and across the North Shore There wasn't a built-in audience or a ready-made scene for ramen Still, the team stayed on course with their vision.
Table to Stix Ramen's Menu
At the heart of Table to Stix Ramen's success is its food The menu offers a mix of traditional and contemporary ramen dishes, each carefully prepared to bring out the best in every ingredient The restaurant's approach to ramen is built on a respect for tradition, but it's not afraid to experiment with new flavors and combinations
The ramen menu features a variety of broths, including rich pork-based tonkotsu, spicy miso, and vegetarian options. Each bowl has high-quality ingredients, from the pork belly and crispy fried tofu to the fresh vegetables and house-made noodles. For those who wish to customize their ramen, options include extra egg, menma, Brussels sprouts, and prawns
Although Table to Stix Ramen's primary focus is on ramen, the restaurant also celebrates the diversity of Japanese cuisine The small bites menu offers a wide selection of options, including Edamame, Spicy Edamame, Seaweed Salad, and the crowd-pleasing Chicken Karaage. For those looking for something more unique, the Ikageso Karaage, which features crispy fried squid tentacles, is a favorite among adventurous diners Each small bite complements the main dishes and provides guests with a rich dining experience.
Steamed buns, with fillings like Bulgogi Pork and Crispy Chicken, have also become a signature offering The light, fluffy buns pair well with the savory fillings, making them an ideal choice for anyone looking for a quick, satisfying snack This sharing-style dish is perfect for groups looking to explore the menu and experience the full range of flavors that Table to Stix offers.
Building Strong Bonds with the Local Community
Over the course of its decade-long operation, Table to Stix Ramen has set itself apart through its ties to the community. The founders take pride in ensuring that each guest feels like part of the family, and the staff translates this sense of care and attention in every interaction.
Beyond the day-to-day interactions, Table to Stix Ramen has also proven its loyalty to the local area through charitable efforts The restaurant has supported various organizations throughout the years, including the Women's Club of Evanston, Susan G. Komen, and Connection for the Homeless.
During the COVID-19 lockdowns, when businesses across the country faced unprecedented challenges, Table to Stix found ways to give back to the community The restaurant contributed meals to local hospitals and frontline workers, doing its part to support those who were working tirelessly to protect the community.
A Decade in Evanston
In October 2025, Table to Stix will celebrate ten years in business That's no small achievement, especially in an industry without guaranteed longevity. Over the years, the shop has been recognized by regional food programs such as Campus Eats and Chicago's Best, shining a light on what locals have known for years