Koi Ramen Bar London – For when only ramen will do...
London’s ramen scene upped its game about 5 years ago when a bunch of specialist players entered the market delivering relatively authentic ramen to the masses. These include famous Japanese chains such as Ippudo and Kanada-ya alongside home-grown ones which emerged around the same time. Koi Ramen, however, remains very much under the mainstream radar – an independent micro-chain with outlets at the excellent Pop Brixton complex & Tooting Market.
As a self-confessed ramen addict, there are some days I wake up and just HAVE to get a satisfying bowlful, Koi is always at the top of my list. The pork bone broth known as Tonkotsu is the most ubiquitous ramen style in London, and whilst the broth at the other chains' versions can be a little too thick and heavy, Koi’s version is a little lighter – without losing that deep, addictive satisfaction that a bowl of ramen should deliver. Owner and ramen master Ming is a stickler for consistency, using a thermometer to ensure each and every bowl is piping hot, with his straight noodles just the right side of al dente. Alongside the signature Tonkotsu, there are miso and veggie miso varieties on offer.
It’s uber-casual dining: ramen is served in a paper bowl and you find a place to perch. But at £7.50 a bowl, it’s a fraction of the price of the chains, and a load tastier. Top tip – Save some broth and order the “Kaedama”: an extra portion of noodles thrown in at the end for just £1 extra.
There’s so much more to discover
Discover more in London
The Thames Clipper – A new perspective
"The Thames Clipper" is an efficient machine, designed for London commuters. It's the perfect way to get on a boat on the Thames on a sunny evening!
By
Kamla
Pillay
Reckless Records – Vinyl, CDs and tapes everywhere
"Reckless Records" is a gem in the heart of Soho, London. I've never found a scratch on any of the musical items here and believe me, I've bought many...
By
Andrew
Bright
Paradise Soho – Sri Lankan small plates
A must try for me at Paradise Soho are the gigantic grilled ceylonese prawns - tender and smokey from the charring & the cashew curry along with a hopper.
By
Angelina
Ivanova
West Reservoir Centre – Dreamy swim
The "West Reservoir Centre" in Hackney, North London is my new favourite spot for swimming -- it's huge (750m) and in an absolutely stunning environment!
By
Kamla
Pillay
Bang Bang Oriental – Banging oriental food
"Bang Bang Oriental" in London is like a candystore to my Asian food nerd side! This large complex is essentially a huge food court with great Asian food.
By
Mark
Meyer
Rondo La Cave – A hip wine bar
Rondo La Cave is a hip wine bar situated in the basement of the Hoxton hotel and has a charming rustic interior with dim lighting.
By
Angelina
Ivanova
Hollyhock Café – London’s fairytale paradise
All year round, Hollyhock Café offers a wholesome selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes, all made from fair trade and/or locally sourced ingredients.
By
Madeline
Gowers
The Garden House – Turkish breakfasts
"The Garden House" in London is a Turkish restaurant where I love going for breakfast, especially after a long night. I recommend going for the menemen...
By
Kamla
Pillay
Maltby Street Market – A vibey weekend spot
"Maltby Street Market" on London's Rope Walk has a great selection of interesting street food traders & drink vendors. Makes me fall in love all over again
By
Mark
Meyer
The Wenlock Arms – A truly local pub
"The Wenlock Arms" in London is a tiny, truly local pub and a true favourite of mine. One of the things I like about it is its semi-permanent customers...
By
Kamla
Pillay
Master Wei Xi'An – Master of noodles
"Master Wei Xi'An" in London is a restaurant that, at first sight, seems almost too good to be true. My personal favorite are the cold Liangpi noodles...
By
Kamla
Pillay
Kenwood House – House on the Heath
"Kenwood House" in London's Hampstead Heath is a stately home open for the entire public. My favourite places there are the library and the expansive lawns
By
Peter
Hoffer
Download our app now and know your way!
Our Spotters' Local Favorites Only. Skip the Tourist Traps.
Find Nearby Spots and Navigate with Ease
Save Your Favorites and See Them on the Map
Know your way in London and navigate with ease!
✓ Full access to 0 local favorites. Zero tourist highlights.
✓ Get to know our 0 Spotters and ♥ their recommendations.
✓ Save favorites and show them on the map.
