Shoryu Ramen has a loyal ramen fan base, I saw this when booked in for a lunch time spot at their Shoreditch branch. Regulars being greeted by the staff and eyes glistened as people ordered ramen. I visited with a friend and my toddler, it was great to see a kid’s menu available which doubled up as a colouring activity, sat alongside a pack of crayons. A very thoughtful touch from the people behind Shoryu Ramen, anything to entertain toddlers/kids, is a parent’s dream.

The arrival of spring is marked by one of Japan’s most ancient traditions. Hanami is dedicated to celebrating spring, the fleeting nature of life and being with friends and family under the beautiful pink and white petals of the Cherry Blossom. To celebrate the arrival of Spring, Shoryu Ramen has launched a new cocktail – The Cherry Blossom Path and a non-alcoholic drink – The Red Kimono which I choose to start off my meal. A mix of strawberry, almond and cherry blossom mixed with soda water. It was fruity and refreshing, and the perfect start to a healthy and nourishing meal.

The menu consists of a variety of different ramen, hirata buns, gyozas and a selection of Japanese street food dishes. I had come for their well-known Tonkotsu Ramen, a rich 12 hour pork broth ramen which comes with char siu bbq pork belly, rich orange yolk nitamago egg, kikurage mushrooms, spring onion, red ginger and nori seaweed. The three-millimetre thick slices of char siu pork, was so soft it melted in your mouth and the broth was incredibly flavoursome, I could see why the 12 hour pork broth is so popular!

I also indulged in the chicken gyozas, served in a mini iron cast pot, which is always a winning dish, and Shroyu Ramen didn’t disappoint. Dining in on a Tuesday we were able to order the Tuesday special (Takayuki Tuesday) priced at only £5.95 ordered with any ramen or curry. This deep fried octopus dish is one for seafood lovers, it is quite strong in flavour, so I’d suggest ordering only if you’re a fan of octopus.

I was pretty full at this point, but with always room for a dessert to share, I ordered the mochi brownie, which I can only explain as the perfect mix of a western and eastern dessert, if you’re a lover of both desserts, this fusion is one for you.

Next time you’re in Shoreditch and looking for authentic ramen and Japanese street food for lunch with a friend or an after-work place to dine, give Shoryu Ramen a go. We hear the flight of sake is one to order too…

Address: 45 Great Eastern St, London, EC2A 4NR

Website: www.shoryuramen.com

Written by Nyla S.
Photos courtesy of Steven Joyce