Restaurant Opening: Ramen Hood

Ramen Hood, a fast casual, “build-your-own ramen bowl” restaurant, has opened North Scottsdale’s Gateway 101 shopping center, located on the northeast corner of Pima and Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd.

The counter-service style restaurant allows customers to choose from a variety of authentic Japanese ingredients, flavors and toppings to create their own ramen or rice bowl.

“Ramen is one of my most favorite foods in the world. Every time I visit Japan, my first stop is finding a mom and pop ramen restaurant. The best ones are always very low-key, no frills, but always have long lines,” says James Xie, owner of Ramen Hood. “I realized there isn’t really anything comparable in Phoenix. I want people here to know what real ramen is like, and to not be intimidated in trying new styles and flavors.

“Ramen can be way more exciting than the instant packets we ate in college. And at Ramen Hood, we make it just as easy to enjoy!”

Customers start with their choice of ramen or rice as a base, select broth flavor, protein such as chicken, Cha Siu Pork, Gyudon Beef or tofu, and finish it off with a variety of toppings, seasonings or soft-boiled egg. There are also vegetarian and gluten-free options.

“I’ve spoken to many ramen chefs throughout Japan who graciously gave me advice on combining different ingredients, as well as helped me come up with a few new ideas to create the perfect bowl of ramen,” says Xie, who has worked in the restaurant industry since he was 15. “I think it’s these trade secrets that will really make Ramen Hood stand out in the Valley and resonate with people who may not be familiar with traditional ramen.”

In addition to ramen bowls, Ramen Hood will offer other Japanese favorites including Gyoza and Karaage Fried Chicken, as well as the popular Asian soft drink Ramune (aka Marble Soda, “The Most Complicated Soft Drink in the World”) and Japanese tea.

Ramen Hood is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday - Thursday, and until 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

For more information, visit www.ramen-hood.com or follow on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eatramenhood/