If you are looking for a restaurant that will give you a welcome as warm as your meal, set your sights on Ajisen, a perfect all round cure for the winter blues.

Ramen has to be one of the most comforting and warming food options available. Often touted as a ‘hug in a bowl’ this popular dish is satisfying, filling and delicious and not only good for the body, but a real Japanese soul food. Ajisen Ramen – which has over 800 stores all over the world – is tucked away just off Khyber Pass, on Kingdon Street in Newmarket and is one of the best spots to satiate your ramen craving. 

The store itself is completely unique, its bright, playful and colourful, featuring an illuminated map of the global locations, hanging paper lanterns and a larger-than-life mural of the Ajisen girl. This official Ajisen logo is recognized worldwide, featuring a little girl named Chiichan – created by imaging the 3-year-old figure of Yoshie Shigemitsu, daughter of Ajisen founder Takaharu Shigemitsu. 

The word Ajisen means 'a thousand tastes' in Japanese, and the vast menu drives that home. Originating from Kumamoto, Japan in 1968, and known for its rich and aromatic soup base, filled with fresh hand-pulled noodles, slow-cooked meat and fresh veges, this Newmarket gem has something for everyone. 

Sitting pride of place is a special room for their ramen noodle production, with glass windows on the front side allowing customers to watch the chef meticulously work the dough through the machines, carefully crafting the perfect, fresh, ramen noodle – there is no compromise on freshness. The dough is kneaded and rested before being rolled out and cut into thin strips. The entire process can take several hours, and requires skill and astute attention to detail to ensure the noodles have the right texture. These freshly made ramen noodles also absorb the broth better, enhancing the overall flavour of each dish. 

You’ll be spoilt for choice so we’ve popped two must-try dishes below to make things easier!

Tonkatsu Ramen

This traditional ramen dish is their most popular. Made using pork bone broth base with lots of garlic, the broth is simmered for hours to create a rich and flavourful soup before being topped with thin, housecrafted noodles, slices of pork and green onions. 

Tan Tan Ramen

This is a fan-favourite ramen that you need to try if you want something that packs a punch. Deliciously crafted with minced pork, sesame, and chili finished with a soft egg nestled perfectly on the top. 

Ajisen Ramen

5/7 Kingdon Street, Newmarket