Tonkotsu Notting Hill — Restaurant in London

I'll admit I'm coming at this more from the perspective of a purist, so immediately when I see "puddings" on the menu of a ramen place, I know they're catering to a broad market. But I couldn't help feeling that catering to a wide market lowers the overall experience of the food and creates a bland product. For example, the gyoza came with a oil and pepper sauce that was neither spicy nor salty, so I had to ask for soy sauce to generate flavour. The kara age came with the same sauce and I was charged an extra pound for mayonnaise that is typical of this dish. The beer wasn't particularly cold either.

Coming to the ramen, I tried two types of their ramen, including the Tonkotsu, both made with a salt based tare. The noodles were fine, pretty standard in terms of bite and consistency, but the broth for both tasted underseasoned and again, pretty bland. I've made both of these types of ramen bases myself and honestly it doesn't take much to create a rich flavour through the broth and tare, which here was frankly lacking. Just adjusting the tare may help. Other items felt weak as well - the chashu pork did not taste fully seasoned, though it was pork-ey, it was without the hint of sweetness and flavour created by mirin / sake and spring onions. The eggs as well were over boiled, and judging by the colour had not been marinated for more than a couple hours (or at least not nearly enough to give flavour and taste). The bamboo shoots were good though, and crunchy.

Purely my opinion, but if you are called "tonkotsu" then at least get that dish nailed down before offering things like curries and desserts on the menu. But if you want to cater to a broad market and be a slightly edgier Wagamama, that is something people going in, expecting a somewhat authentic experience, should be aware of.

I would say the staff were friendly and doing their best in a difficult environment and I'm sure this will do fine for a ramen fix for most people but ultimately the food could be richer and...

Tonkotsu in Notting Hill is a true haven for ramen enthusiasts, offering an authentic slice of Tokyo's vibrant ramen culture right in the heart of London. This cozy eatery has carved out a special place in the local food scene, famed for its rich, flavorsome broths and perfectly cooked noodles. The star of the menu is undoubtedly their signature Tonkotsu ramen: a bowl brimming with silky, pork-based broth, tender char siu, springy noodles, and a perfectly soft-boiled egg. Each element of the dish is crafted with care, creating a harmony of flavors and textures that is deeply satisfying. The broth, simmered for hours, carries depth and complexity, infusing each slurp of noodles with a robust, umami-packed taste.

The ambiance of Tonkotsu Notting Hill complements its culinary offerings, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere that echoes the intimate ramen bars of Japan. The interior is simple yet stylish, fostering a sense of communal dining and cozy intimacy. The attentive and knowledgeable staff enhance the experience, guiding diners through the menu and offering recommendations with a smile. Whether you're a ramen aficionado or a curious first-timer, Tonkotsu Notting Hill is a destination that promises a memorable dining experience. The combination of soul-satisfying ramen, a welcoming atmosphere, and the vibrant energy of Notting Hill makes it a standout choice for anyone looking to indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of authentic...

My recent experience at Tonkotsu, was unfortunately marred by a concerning incident. Upon ordering two ramen dishes for takeaway and consuming them at home, my partner and I were shocked to discover a slug in our food.

Understandably alarmed, I promptly returned to the restaurant to inform them of the situation.

Initially, the staff were apologetic and provided a refund for our purchase. However, their response ended there. Despite assurances of an investigation, I never received any further communication from the restaurant. This lack of follow-up after weeks of the incident was disconcerting, especially considering the potential health implications of consuming contaminated food.

While I appreciate the refund, it is concerning that Tonkotsu did not take further steps to address the situation, such as covering any medical expenses or conducting a thorough investigation into the source of the contamination. As a customer, I expected a higher level of care and responsibility from a reputable establishment.

In light of this experience, I would caution other customers to exercise caution when dining at Tonkotsu. While the food may be appealing, the lack of concern and follow-up in response to such a serious incident is disappointing and raises questions about the restaurant’s commitment to customer safety and...