I first discovered Den Den Cafe Asiana via an intern who worked with me during one of the first summers that this blog was live. She had studied abroad at one point and really appreciated great Korean food.

The hubs and I went back yesterday after quite a while and gotta say — the food and service were both top notch! (It got me thinking, I mean, what had taken me so darn long to go back?)

The person who took our order at the counter was incredibly patient and helpful, even recommending we order the fried rice with a slight alteration to the way in which they usually make it, so that it would be easier for my husband to digest. (He has some acid reflux issues, in addition to a tree nut allergy, and so we requested that his rice was ultimately made with less oil.)

I went with their ramen and the whole entire experience was fab! Our affable wait person brought over a steaming hot pot of noodles, egg, onions and spicy broth — and I was hooked.

Also, feel like it really helped my seasonal allergy congestion yesterday. (Yes, I’m one of those who suffers with a stuffy nose, headaches, etc. in the fall, too.)

Their menu is chock full of so many other snacks, mains, and sips that I definitely want to go back again with friends for lunch. I spotted a lot of vegetarian dishes (woo hoo) and they could probably sub in some tofu in others if you asked nicely. (Get more specific recommendations for what to order in this blog post from my ex-intern and the “Patty  J” archives.)

I know they’re quite popular with folks who live and work in the vicinity of their stylish storefront (and interior) on Benefit Street, but unless you fall under that umbrella (or are good friends with someone who does), you might be missing out on some of the most outstanding eats in Rhode Island.

Find DEN DEN at 161 Benefit Street in Providence, RI.

As always, if you go after reading THIS, please let them (and your friends & family) know you were inspired by Patty J and PattyJ.com.