Well, it's actually quite different in terms of texture. Restaurant ramen is firmer and, well, much better for you. =P And it's got a better texture; kinda like al dente spaghetti. Instant is . . . kinda mushy sometimes. It's ok, but it's really high in sodium, etc. Basically, anything and everything that'll raise your blood pressure. XD I eat so much of the stuff anyway that I'm convinced I'm gonna die at 25 from a heart attack just 'cuz I eat so much of the stuff. =P