KONJIKI HOTOTOGISU RAMEN

Monica Kapila drops in on Konjiki Hototogisu, Dubai’s latest ramen hot spot.

The Michelin-starred Japanese ramen chain Konjiki Hototogisu is finally in Dubai. Originally founded in Tokyo by chef Atsushi Yamamoto, the ramen chain has gained international acclaim for its high-quality, delicious dishes. Located on the second floor of Mall of the Emirates, this is the sixth Konjiki Hototogisu restaurant to open across the globe, and the first in the UAE.

WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT?

A light, bright, airy-feeling restaurant with competent and friendly staff, Konjiki Hototogisu is well worth a visit. We tried a generous portion of its signature ramen with a shouyu; a soya-based soup stock with fresh egg noodles, succulent, thinly sliced chicken, Chinese vegetables, and a silky, mushroom truffle broth all in one, comforting, warm bowl. Just to top it off, we opted for a soft-boiled egg to complete the dish.

MOUTH WATERING

Flavours are subtle, fresh, and clean and we recommend starting with some pickled cucumbers and glossy wakame seaweed salad. However, you must end your meal with the pretty Japanese specialty kakigori dessert made from mounds of delicately shaved ice, topped with fresh passion fruit cascading down it. This dessert is too cold to be hurried, so savour it slowly!

Star status: Konjiki Hototogisu is one of the two ramen restaurants in the world that holds a Michelin Star.

GO EARLY

Queues form early at the weekends and at peak times, and as advance bookings are not permitted, it’s best to go early to be assured a seat without having to wait.