SINCE opening in time for Cape Town’s summer season in the city’s charming Church Square, Ramenhead has gained a cult-like following, famous for championing the legend and lore of authentic ramen. Now known for its ambiance and delicious bowls of ramen, its dishes are characterised by the perfectly chewy noodle and bright flavours. Simple, fast and affordable – it’s democratic dining at its best.
Most evenings a line of diners snakes from the door. It moves quickly as seats at the ramen counter and a small offering of tables are freed up inside the restaurant. Chef–patron Ashley Moss notes the significance of the name ‘ramen-ya’, or traditional ramen shop, he opened with Peter Tempelhoff, whose celebrated FYN restaurant is several floors up in the Speakers Corner building. “‘Ramenheads’ are like super fans”, he explains. “We’ve seen the same faces return night after night.”
This month Ramenhead is extending its lunch service. Offered from Tuesdays to Saturdays, 12pm to 2.30pm, the Salaryman Lunch comprises a bowl of ramen with an energy drink that can be enjoyed within half an hour, for R160. The lunch is timed to get busy working customers in and out with minimal disruption to their day, but with ample satisfaction. Inspiration for this concept originates from the Japanese mid-week lunch style, whereby businessmen and women flood local restaurants around midday for a quick and easy meal.
For the Salaryman Lunch, the ramen of the day will change from week to week, always with a vegetarian option available. “It will be nice and light, not too rich and heavy, but always the same nutrient-dense and delicious ramen our diners have come to expect,” Moss says. Broths range from classic pork to pork-free chicken or miso-based.
Diners can choose additional classic ramen toppings to maximise the flavours, from a marinated soft-boiled egg to thin slices of Iberico pork or toasted nori to amp up the umami hit.
Although not included in the Salaryman Lunch, the usual authentic Japanese snacks on its menu, such as the popular gyoza dumplings, are available to order during lunch service. Other drinks on offer include local and Japanese beer, a wide selection of sake and Japanese whisky. There’s also a good choice of Japanese soft drinks, kombucha and bubble tea.
Ramenhead is within easy walking distance of the Parliament buildings, the legal district, and hotels. An area that has already undergone considerable transformation, it is pedestrian friendly but there’s also plenty of parking in the vicinity. Click here for more info.
