A popular Japanese dish, ramen is made with wheat noodles, meat (or sometimes fish) broth and is flavoured with miso or soy sauce. Toppings include dried seaweed, spring onions, boiled egg and bean sprouts. If you want to get a taste of this soup dish packed with flavour, head to one of these restaurants:
1. YUi, Dubai Design District (d3)
Inside Japanese design store Frame is d3’s newest restaurant, YUi. Noodles are made in-house using Japanese flour and the broth is simmered for 10 hours. Ramen dishes are priced at Dhs 45 except for the special ramen which is priced at Dhs 70 and includes truffle oil, cured surimi and chicken char siu. Call 04-2434217.
2. Atisuto, Galleria Mall
If you’re looking for a casual dining experience, make your way to Atisuto. The interiors are catchy - think black and white prints on walls, Japanese paper lanterns suspended from the ceiling and wooden benches and tables. Ramen dishes start from Dhs 52 and the beef one is extremely popular, mainly for its broth that’s bursting with flavour. Call 04-3856503.
3. Wagamama, Crowne Plaza Dubai
Communal tables are the highlight of this UK brand that has several branches across the city. Its ramen is best described as a hearty bowl of broth with fresh noodles that’s available in six variations, served in a traditional black bowl. Prices start from Dhs 48. Call 04-5509226.
4. Tomo, Raffles Dubai
If you want the ‘real’ deal, this upscale award-winning restaurant will give it to you. Its ramen is served with roasted ‘meat’ and you can pick your flavour with options ranging from miso to soy or salt. They also have a halal ramen on the menu. Prices start from Dhs 42. Call 04-3577888.
5. Motomachi, Dubai Festival City mall
The restaurant brings a taste of Japan to Dubai with its authentic cuisine created by Japanese chefs and served by Japanese staff. Diners have three options – miso, soy or salt – which start from Dhs 58. Beautifully presented in white bowls with a red pattern, the ramen here tastes as good as it looks. Call 04-2881881.
