The Japan Food Matsuri opens today at Takashimaya Square, and with it some 45 different vendors selling a variety of treats from all around Japan.
And yes, the famed Ichiran ramen is part of it. Here’s what you need to know before heading down to join the queue (there was already one at 9.30am today): the Fukuoka ramen chain will be using instant ramen instead of fresh noodles. Don’t expect the full trimmings of char shu and soft-boiled eggs – each bowl ($12) will only be topped with wood ear mushrooms and scallions, and only 700 bowls will be available daily.
But what remains authentic is the dining experience. The Ichiran pop-up features eight individual ‘ramen focus booths’ similar to what you can find at all other outlets. Note that there are two different queues for the pop-up: one to dine at the individual booths, and another express counter for those who want their ramen to-go. Boxes of its instant tonkotsu ramen ($35 each) will also be sold at the express counter, with only 200 boxes available daily.
Beyond the famed ramen, look forward to many other exclusive products and dishes. The sushi counter will feature a rotating selection of top sushi restaurants in Japan serving an Omakase-style menu (from $88). Pop by from October 3 to 6 to sample unique brown rice sushi from Ginza Tsunakin. Also available are freshly assembled bento boxes ($36) filled with seafood, along with premium cuts of wagyu beef ($35/100g) and grilled swordfish steaks ($10/100g).
Popular dessert chain Zaku Zaku will also be selling its fame sweet treats ahead of its first physical store in Singapore. Grab the signature Croquant Chou Zaku Zaku ($2.80) or its soft serve ($6) in a cone or cup. Missing the cheesy pastries from Bake Cheese Tart? Its matcha cheese tart ($3.90) will also be available at the fair. Other desserts include an Instagrammable Hokkaido Hand Parfait ($18) topped with cotton candy, milk tea topped with gold leaf flakes ($6), and sandwiches filled with plump strawberries and cream ($7).
The Japan Food Matsuri runs from October 3 to 20 at Takashimaya Square. Head down now to get your fix of Japanese snacks or to soak yourself in the festive atmosphere.