Shoryu Ramen Soho — Restaurant in London

The gyoza on the initially silent hot skillet crackled loudly for a long while every time they were touched, the sharpness of the sound harmonizing with the sharpness of their heat, the brittle gyoza wings thereover, the wasabi and grated fresh ginger, but there was also a very homely feel to their fragrant friedness, the supportive heartiness of the pork, contrary to the vegan version we'd had recently, reminding me, I realised, of pork pel'menyi, childhood. The straight singularity of the pork if anything added to the homeliness, which rhymed in a certain sense with the feeling of being taken care of in the sweet laziness of not having to fold and make them ourselves this time unlike at home, feeling brought even closer to the forefront by vinegary dipping sauce we'd only had once then, all feeling like a very "cook" feeling.

I was struck by the immediate, unfamiliarly vegetal flavour of the freshly grated wasabi. Vega said that aspect was definitely more distinct than the last time we'd had freshly grated wasabi, which is cool. It also had a slightly lemongrass-adjacent fragrance, which I'm unused to at this intensity.

The double tonkotsu broth had an eye-rollingly pleasing bonemarrow richness - funkiness pairing wonderfully with that of the gochujang, pleasant burn about the lips that paired well with heat from the broth - very visceral associations, rugged in a wonderfully alive way - further homeliness in the visual of saturated marrowfat floating therein when it had cooled somewhat - though partly from my missing and liking, perhaps for the first time, the flavour. The distinctness of the broth flavour had charm, like the intense fragrance of the nori, the sharpness of the marinated ginger, the strong wheaten flavour of the noodles, their firmness rhyming that separateness of flavours, the brief flare of lingering, strong taste from the pork, fading thereafter, excitement to eventually potentially try seafood therewith, giving it even more of that variety.

Today's chef was Ajay....

Shoryu Ramen Soho: A Slice of Japan in the Middle of London

Tucked away in the lively streets of Soho, Shoryu Ramen offers an authentic Japanese dining experience that feels both comforting and elevated. The atmosphere is warm and inviting minimalist decor with just enough character to make it feel intimate yet vibrant.

From the moment you walk in, the energy is unmistakably Japanese. Staff welcome you with enthusiasm, and service throughout the meal is attentive, quick, and genuinely friendly. Even during peak hours, the team handles the pace with a calm efficiency that adds to the overall experience.

What really sets Shoryu apart is the quality and consistency of its dishes. Every bowl is clearly crafted with care from the depth of the broth to the freshness of the toppings. It’s a place where attention to detail is evident, and where every bite feels like a small celebration of flavor. The menu strikes a great balance between traditional and creative, so whether you’re looking for comfort or something a little more adventurous, there’s plenty to explore.

Portion sizes are generous, the presentation is clean and appetizing, and the whole experience feels well worth the price, especially for central London.

Shoryu Ramen Soho brings an authentic taste of Japan to the city, with a lively atmosphere, excellent service, and consistently delicious food. Ideal for solo diners, date nights, or small groups—this is a go-to spot for anyone who loves ramen or just wants a reliably...

I decided to bring my friend in Shoryu on Easter Sunday. There was quite so we were noticed straight away and seated. The waitress asked about allergies, but no one ask are we familiar with the menu and it was not explained for us. Luckily I knew the menu and I explained for my friend what is tonkotsu and recommended dishes that he have to try. It was his first visit in Shoryu. The waitre was in rush to take our order, so I had to ask couple of times more time. We order ramens, buns and edamame beans. When there were order taken the waitre did not ask about our noodles, it were very surprising, because as far as I know it were one of the most important question, he did not ask about food preferences and did not suggest water. Food came quite quickly, the edamame were nice, but there wasn't where to put pots, so we were used our napkins. My friend were impressed buns. Ramen wasn't so hot and noodles were to hard. When I asked how is the ramen, he said it's just a simple soup. Moreover I ask the tap water, glasses wasn't polished properly, saw some dust on the wall and found chopstick on the coach. When we asked the bill, girl, probably one of the management team straight away come with the bill and card machine. When we left one say thank you or goodbye. This visit were a bit disappointing, I am vere familiar with Shoryu service steps,but...I understand that it were Easter Sunday, and staff might were tired, but as far as I know standards are vere important for...