Ramen restaurant Ippudo set to open London site

Japanese ramen specialist Ippudo is to open its first European site in London next month in Central St Giles.

Founded in 1985, the restaurant group has 100 sites worldwide including New York, Singapore, Hong Kong and Sydney, but this will be its first foray into Europe.

Signature dishes include Shiromaru Classic, a white pork-based broth ramen and Akamaru Modern, a richer broth seasoned with garlic oil and Ippudo's miso paste (Umami-dama). Both varieties feature noodles made in-house daily which are topped roast pork, bean sprouts, and spring onions.

Ippudo said that a full ramen menu will be available from September, with an expanded menu including Japanese-style fish and chips introduced in October.

The 80 cover restaurant will operate a no reservations policy.