Ivan Orkin, who was profiled in the Netflix documentary Chef’s Table, will serve his first customers at Ivan Ramen in Farringdon Road tomorrow (Wednesday, November 19).
The hotly-tipped opening follows a sellout London pop-up in 2023 from the New Yorker, who became a Tokyo ramen legend after opening his first shop in the city in 2006.
Blending respect for Japanese tradition with an inventive spirit, he earned global acclaim for his signature ramen before taking them back to New York where he opened a ramen restaurant.
Now he’s sharing cult classics such as Tonkotsu, Tori Paitan, Spicy Miso Red Chilli, and Ivan’s Karaage with London diners – and the Farringdon menu will also include a new Salt Beef Bun in homage to the city.
The creation is inspired by the flavours of a classic East End bagel, filled with warm salt beef, pickled cucumbers, and fiery karashi mustard mayo.
You can expect queues out of the door of the intimate 26-seater, whose interior blends the simple clean lines of Japanese design with the hustle and bustle of a New York ramen shop.
A minimalist interior is brightened with colourful manga artwork and lightbox artworks and customers can watch ramen being made in the kitchen at the front of the restaurant.
Ivan’s story is also embedded in a design that uses reclaimed furniture and lighting inspired by his original New York ramen shop and photography spotlighting the craft and art of ramen.
After Tokyo, New York and then Farringdon there are plans afoot to bring the brand to more locations across the UK.
Orkin said: “Tokyo, New York… and now London! What an incredible honour to share our food in three of the world’s most iconic cities.
“London isn’t just a world-class restaurant destination. It is home to one of the most exciting ramen scenes anywhere. I’ve always loved this city, and I’m beyond thrilled to finally be a part of it.”
Dan Warne, CEO and founder of hospitality tech firm Sessions, which is backing the venture, said: “Bringing Ivan Ramen — created by one of the world’s most celebrated ramen chefs — to the UK is a milestone for Sessions. Showcasing Ivan’s globally acclaimed ramen reinforces our commitment to delivering world-class food to new audiences.”
Ivan Ramen opens on November 19 and will operate seven days a week at 98, Farringdon Road, Clerkenwell. www.ivanramen.co.uk
