I was first introduced to IPPUDO in 2009/2010 when I was an undergrad in Singapore. Went I left I was convinced I just had the best ramen ever. This is not an exaggeration. I had tried ramen in many different restaurants and believe me IPPUDO’s ramen has its special taste which will keep you hooked.
Founded in 1985 by internationally renowned ramen king Shigemi Kawahara, IPPUDO has over 80 stores in Japan itself and over 40 stores worldwide. Thus, I was extremely thrilled when I found out there is one in London. Coming from Asia, I crave my Japanese, Thai, Korean, Malaysian, Indian, Chinese and Singaporean food. IPPUDO satisfies my comfort food cravings.
IPPUDO serves the highest quality ramen with delicious broth of your choice. The chashu is so soft it almost melts in your mouth. The noodles are freshly made and you could select its hardness based on your preference. It is truly “cosmos served in a bowl” as people claim it to be. And of course the place it not just about the ramen. The chain serves gyoza, salad, sushi rolls, good selection of appetizers. For me another bomb apart from the ramen is their buns. It is simply the best thing that could go in your mouth.
In London, the ramen ranges from£10-£18 while the buns £4(pc)/£10(3pcs). The prices are reasonable considering the gastronomic satisfaction one would get at the end of the dining experience.
I have visited the Central Saint Giles restaurant. The restaurant is quite small and the tables are very near each other. So it might get slightly cramped. The best timing to go is definitely off peak. You do not want to be there at 6pm-7pm. The queue could get insane.There was once Mr T and I reached at 5.30pm on a weekend and it was a no go. We had to change our plans on two occasions.
Those who are searching for a good ramen, look no further than IPPUDO. You won’t be disappointed.
IPPUDO Central Saint Giles
3 Central Saint Giles Piazza
Saint Giles High Street
London WC2H 8AG
Tel: 020 7240 4469
Website: http://www.ippudo.co.uk/
Photos: MielynGrace
