If you live in Oxford and love authentic Japanese cuisine but haven't tried Shoryu Ramen, we have a treat for you. Shoryu Ramen was created by Tak Tokumine who travelled from Hakata in Japan to London nearly 30 years ago and brought to life the now iconic Japan Centre. Inspired by the regional ramen culture in his country, as well as the buzzing street food scene in cities like Tokyo, he started the Shoryu restaurant chain which now has branches all over the UK.
The Oxford branch is particularly special; the brand's second venture outside of London, the team were attracted by the city's focus on history and heritage, alongside a modern, cosmopolitan lifestyle - something they think reflects the Shoryu brand perfectly. This restaurant is also one of the collection's largest, with a spacious dining room that focuses on mid-century style seating, plenty of wood and natural materials, as well as calming, neutral tones. We particularly like the cloud-like paper lighting, that dangles overhead.
But, aside from the design, the main reason to visit Shoryu Ramen Oxford is, of course, the food. First off, take a look at the drinks selection. We particularly like the signature cocktails such as the Tiki Passion with Japanese rum, coconut rum, passion fruit, almond syrup and angostura bitters. Then, there's the fact that Shoryu has the biggest selection of sake in the UK, which means you should probably try one of those, too.
Moving onto food and the ramen is a must. Choose between classic options, as well as vegan recipes and specials, like the cult Chicken Katsu Curry Ramen with curry-soy pork broth, chicken katsu, pak choi,
coriander, a nitamago egg, menma bamboo shoots, naruto fish cake, red ginger and nori seaweed. If smaller bites are your thing, get stuck into the Shoryu buns with fillings like BBQ pork, spicy fried chicken and crispy tofu, alongside poke bowls, and sides like gyoza, chicken wings and yakitori.