Kanada-Ya
First founded in Japan in 2009, Kanada-Ya arrived in London five years later, with award-winning acclaim on its back. The restaurant, located in Convent Garden, may be intimate in size, seating, and design, but what it lacks in floor space it more than makes up for in authentic fare. In fact, guests flock to Kanada-Ya knowingly anticipating a lengthy mealtime wait, and Kanada-Ya’s ever-growing fan base is a testament to its to-die-for ramen.
The secret? Pork bones simmered for 18 hours create a smooth, savory, and rich tonkotsu broth that has been hailed by press as one of the best in London. Bowls filled with thin, wheat noodles made on-site don’t distract from the rest of the dish, and toppings that range from pork belly and pork slices to blanched beansprouts and pork collar to soft-boiled marinated eggs and pickled mustard greens. Guests fill out their orders on menu cards, and the staff keeps a very hands-off (but friendly) approach.
According to the website, “Kanada-Ya is an authentic Japanese ramen bar, specialising in delicious tonkotsu ramen cooked from a recipe created by Kanada Kazuhiro, founder of our restaurant in Yukuhashi, Japan. As well as our signature ramen, you will find a range of Onigiri (premium Japanese rice balls wrapped in Nori) as well as a selection of beers, sakes and soft drinks, all served in a friendly, informal setting.”
Kanada-Ya is open Monday through Saturday from 12 until 3 p.m. and then again from 5 to 10 p.m. Reservations are not available.
