Latest news with #Sanuki-style
Tatler Asia
05-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Tatler Asia
A food lover's guide to Chiba, Japan
Sugitaya Above Sugitaya specialises in Iekei-style ramen with rich shoyu broth that originates in Yokohama Ranked an impressive 148 out of over 4,000 restaurants in Chiba, Sugitaya is a mid-range ramen shop specialising in Iekei-style ramen that originates in Yokohama, with its rich shoyu broth, thick straight noodles and toppings such as pork chashu, nori seaweed and spinach. With its casual, authentic atmosphere, Sugitaya is a favourite among both locals and visitors–which would explain why the queues during peak hours are not uncommon. Don't miss: What goes into delicious ramen, according to Chihiro Miyazaki of the newly opened Ramen Minamo Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu Above Deep-fried beef and salmon cutlets served rare and diners may cook them to their preferred doneness For both locals and visitors seeking something beyond the ordinary, Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu specialises in deep-fried beef cutlets (gyukatsu) served rare, which originated during the Meiji era and gained popularity in Tokyo during the mid-2010s. Available in various cuts and grades of beef, and presented as set meals with rice, miso soup, shredded cabbage and dipping sauces, diners complete the cooking process to their preferred doneness using personal hot stones at the table. Read more: 5 things to know about MiGyeongSan Hanwoo beef, which is now available in Malaysia Mister Donut Above A delectable selection of doughnuts to savour at Mister Donut Although Mister Donut operates internationally, it is also Japan's most recognised doughnut chain with a distinctive identity tailored to local preferences. While the signature Pon de Ring–a chewy, mochi-like doughnut with a unique shape and texture–is a must-try, classic options such as glazed doughnuts, French crullers and seasonal limited-edition flavours are still favourite go-to's for a quick treat or relaxed break from sightseeing. See also: 5 things you might not know about doughnuts Kintoun Above Kintoun is famous for its chicken paitan (white broth) ramen Located in the MIO shopping complex near Chibachuo Station, Kintoun has become a standout ramen destination since its opening in 2021 due to its specialised chicken paitan (white broth) ramen–an additive-free, creamy soup often likened to corn potage. Beyond ramen, the menu includes horse meat dishes and donburi (rice bowls)–all available in a cosy establishment with counter seating that accommodates both solo diners and families. Don't miss: The most underrated Malaysian dishes, according to chefs Hanamaru Udon Above Sanuki-style udon noodles at Hanamaru Udon This popular fast-food chain offers Sanuki-style udon noodles in a convenient, cafeteria-style setting, where customers order at the counter from a menu that includes kake udon (plain broth), tempura udon and curry udon. Also available are side dishes such as tempura and rice balls to round out a hearty, wholesome meal packed with flavours. Read more: 10 must-try Asian noodles for armchair travellers TakoTako Sakaechyo Above TakoTako uses Osaka-imported flour to create batter that is crisp on the outside and creamy within The bold red signage of this little takoyaki stall tucked in the rather barren street corner in Chiba definitely captures the attention of passers-by. Located a 10-minute walk from JR Chiba Station, TakoTako Sakaechyo serves authentic Osaka-style takoyaki (octopus balls), using flour imported from Osaka to create batter that is crisp on the outside and creamy within. A highlight is the Negi-mori takoyaki, generously topped with Kyoto Kujo green onions. Other available options range from sauce to ponzu and cheese, and in portions of six, eight or 15 pieces–a popular choice for takeaway or a casual snack on the go. See also: Kanpai! Read why Japan is the newest 'it' region for wines Tonkatsu Kimizuka Above Kimizuka specialises in Japan's beloved tonkatsu curry rice Located above a Daily Yamazaki konbini store, this unassuming tonkatsu restaurant specialises in Japan's beloved tonkatsu curry–a combination of savoury Japanese curry and a crisp, deep-fried pork cutlet. Amidst a cosy atmosphere and attentive service, Kimizuka also serves sashimi, grilled fish, tempura, and a rotating selection of rice and noodle dishes with an emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Don't miss: These are the 6 best curry restaurants in Tokyo, according to Tabelog mamenakano Above A simple, refined long black to keep you fuelled throughout the day mamenakano is a specialty coffee stand located just steps from JR Chiba Station's North Exit, where owner Kei Nakano serves on-site or takeaway quality drip coffee in a minimalist space of concrete and wood. Coffee lovers looking for baked pies to go with mamenakano's signature coffee may visit the shops Pie & Coffee outlet in Makuhari–a half-an-hour's train ride away, but one thing is for certain for both outlets: the emphasis is on simple flavours, local ingredients and clean design–making it a standout for lovers of refined coffee culture. NOW READ Inside 7 romantically designed restaurants around the world Understanding alkaline noodles, a taste that time almost forgot 10 new restaurants, cafés, and bars in Malaysia to visit in May 2025 Credits
Los Angeles Times
19-03-2025
- Business
- Los Angeles Times
Japanese ramen brand joins South Coast Plaza noodle offerings
When it comes to long noodles, South Coast Plaza is not short on options. Shoppers in the mood for 'noods' can choose from spicy Sichuan-style noodles at Mian Sichuan Gourmet Noodles; the famous garlic noodles at AnQi Bistro; bánh phở, or Vietnamese rice noodles, in flavorful pho broth at Phởholic; handcrafted Sanuki-style udon noodles at Marugame Udon and a variety of noodle choices in rich 'wok-hei' shrimp broth at Le Shrimp Noodle Bar. On March 24, another big name noodle concept will join the current offerings when Tokyo's Ramen Nagi opens its first Orange County location on Level 1 of South Coast Plaza's Crate & Barrel wing. 'This restaurant has been in the works for quite some time,' Stanley Ko, president of Ramen Nagi U.S., said during a preview of the new space on March 14. 'We were sidetracked by the pandemic and everything that has been happening in the world and we are so happy to be able to open this restaurant, finally.' Founded in 2004 by master ramen chef Satoshi Ikuta, Ramen Nagi is among the most recognized ramen concepts in Japan and beyond with 40 locations around the world. Ikuta himself was also on hand for the preview, assembling bowls of ramen and speaking through a translator. 'I am extremely happy to bring Ramen Nagi to Orange County; it's our sixth store in America,' Ikuta said. 'It's also our 20th year and we are so proud to have worked tirelessly on this menu to bring delicious flavor over the course of 20 years.' The steaming bowls of ramen with handcrafted noodles are customizable, with diners dictating salt level, broth density, meat choices and extra toppings. The ability to build your own bowl has contributed to Ramen Nagi's popularity and large fan base. 'Basically you can customize every aspect of your ramen. The point we want to stress is there is no reason you can't have the most perfect bowl of ramen when you come to our store,' said Ko. 'We will take special care to understand what your needs are and make sure we make the ramen to your liking.' Ramen broth is available in five different varieties: Original King is made with Ramen Nagi's signature tonkotsu pork broth and served with pork chashu, while the Red King is a blend of garlic, chili oil and cayenne pepper, topped with miso-infused pork. Black King is a blackened garlic and squid ink broth, dark in color and rich with chashu, minced pork and black sesame; Green King has an Italian flair with fresh basil and olive oil in the tonkotsu broth, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and chashu. Lastly, Veggie King is a plant-based broth that incorporates mushroom and cauliflower purée with shiitake mushrooms and spinach. In place of the pork, a disk of shredded potato is fried to make a vegetable 'chashu' golden and crispy like a latke. Diners will also find a selection of appetizers on the menu, like karaage chicken, a Japanese-style fried chicken, and lacy-edged gyoza. The authenticity extends to the restaurant space with Japanese solid black cedar wood and traditional Japanese noren textile dividers. 'We opened the store exactly as it is in Japan,' Ko said. 'We wanted to bring a little bit of Tokyo to South Coast Plaza. We wanted to make it as authentic as possible.' The 1,250 square-foot space seats 70, with bar seating, tables and communal dining. Besides the five classic flavors, most Ramen Nagi locations offer Limited King, a special flavored ramen available for a limited time. In honor of the Orange County opening, Ikuta is featuring the O.C. Shrimp King flavor at the Costa Mesa store during opening week. Unique from Ikuta's traditional shrimp ramen, the O.C. version uses garlic shrimp and fried kale with a drizzle of sriracha. 'It's one that, once you start sipping, you can't stop,' said Ikuta. While Ko knows shoppers have many choices when it comes to noodles, he hopes locals will be open to trying the Ramen Nagi experience. 'This is a labor of love for chef and myself,' said Ko. 'Warmth and hospitality is No. 1.' Ramen Nagi opens to the public at South Coast Plaza on March 24 . Hours are Monday through Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
