The IchiRyu Ramen House in Dubai Marina. ARCHIVE

Dubai’s ramen scene is about to get even more exciting. IchiRyu Ramen House, the award-winning Japanese noodle restaurant, is expanding with a new location at Dubai Marina, offering diners a glimpse of its authentic Japanese-inspired interiors. “It's like you are instantly transported to the streets of Kyoto! We will be serving our award-winning ramen soon,” the restaurant announced. The Dubai Marina branch will feature a striking 2-metre Samurai warrior statue standing proudly beside a maple tree display with fiery autumn leaves—a nod to the traditional Japanese streetscapes that inspired the design. Owned by Filipino siblings Nicolai, Raul, and Karl De Guzman, IchiRyu first opened its doors at Wasl Port Views Building 7, Jumeirah 1 in 2023, drawing long queues from ramen enthusiasts. While ramen is the star of the menu, diners can also enjoy takoyaki, sushi, and unique iced teas. “Since I was a teen, it was always my dream to have my own ramen shop. I’ve loved the dish since I first tasted it at a restaurant in Makati,” Raul, the eldest brother and head chef, told Expat Media in a previous interview. He credits their father, who worked in Japan, for nurturing their love for ramen and Japanese culture. Raul’s journey to mastering ramen was no shortcut. He spent 16 years in Japan, learning the art of authentic broth-making from a seasoned chef after several rejections. His dedication has paid off, and he hopes their story inspires other expatriates to pursue entrepreneurial dreams. “The most difficult part is just taking the first step,” he shared. Nicolai, the youngest sibling, spearheaded the restaurant’s design, incorporating anime collectibles and a “bocchi seki” section, a Japanese concept for solo diners, which has proven popular among Dubai’s ramen lovers. Their latest venture, Tako Ichiban House in Al Ghurair Centre, offers authentic takoyaki to a growing fanbase. ICA/Expat Media
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