IchiRyu Ramen House has opened its second Dubai location, bringing its solo dining concept and expanded Japanese menu to the Marina First Building, across from Rove Dubai Marina.
The new 3,000-square-foot branch accommodates 109 diners and continues the brand’s introduction of Bocchi Seki — Japan’s solo dining tradition — to the UAE. Alongside individual booths, the restaurant features a private tatami room for up to 10 guests.
Inspired by Kyoto design
Designed to reflect the ambiance of Kyoto in autumn, the venue blends Japanese elements with seasonal décor. Guests will find a two-meter busho (military commander statue), traditional armor displays (kacchu), a large daruma doll, and a torii gate modeled after Fushimi Inari Shrine.
“The goal was to transform the dining space into a cultural journey. For this branch, inspiration came from Kyoto’s autumn landscapes and traditional artistry,” said Nicolai De Guzman, Chairman and Chief Design Officer.
“Every design choice is meant to evoke a sense of place and mood, inviting guests to experience more than a meal, but a moment of connection with Japanese heritage.”
New dishes exclusive to Dubai Marina
The Marina branch introduces several menu items not available at the original Wasl Port Views location. These include chahan (Japanese fried rice), assorted nigiri, sashimi, tartare, and temaki. A dedicated dessert and drinks section offers hot and iced maccha lattes.
“When creating the new menu for our Dubai Marina branch, we took great care to blend traditional techniques with fresh ideas, Every dish is thoughtfully prepared, using quality ingredients and precise methods to ensure authenticity,” said Executive Chef Raul “Chef Touru” De Guzman.
The branch was officially opened at a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by diplomats from the Philippines and Japan. Guests included Philippine Ambassador to the UAE Alfonso Ferdinand Ver, Philippine Consul General Marford Angeles, Japan Consul General Jun Imanishi, Agriculture Attaché Shiraki Kenta, and Labor Attaché John Rio Bautista.
Karl De Guzman, President and COO of IchiRyu Ramen House, said: “Our vision has always been to create more than just a restaurant. We want every guest to feel truly welcomed and valued from the moment they step through our doors. It’s important to us that the entire experience, from the atmosphere to the service and, of course the food, reflects the care and dedication we put into IchiRyu.”
The brand’s expansion follows the success of its flagship location and recognition through four industry awards in 2025, including Best Ramen Restaurant from the Arabian Best of Best Awards and World Business Outlook.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
