Update August 2020: Gangsta Ramen has clossed.
Ramen lovers will understand the dilemma of wanting to dive headfirst into their favourite bowl of noodles, and having to maintain their public image while dining out. Good news for solo diners; you can now indulge and slurp up those deliciously umami noodles without fear of judgement from others at Gangsta Ramen, Singapore’s first ramen shop to offer private dining booths for one!
Located smack in the middle of Tanjong Pagar Plaza, Gangsta Ramen is the latest addition to the smorgasbord of Japanese food chains scattered around Singapore’s CBD area. Founded and operated by a Singaporean businessman, Gangsta Ramen may seem like an unassuming eatery with modern outer furnishings in the heartlands. That is, until you step in and discover its unique seating arrangements.
Taking inspiration from world-famous Japanese ramen chain, Ichiran, Gangsta Ramen’s dining space is occupied almost entirely by single dining booths, separated by thick wooden panels and cloth curtains. A narrow walkway for staff separates the two rows of covered booths.
For those who have no qualms about being seen eating out alone in public, there is an additional row of seats facing the wall. Then there are four conventional tables for groups.
Due to their small kitchen space, Gangsta Ramen’s menu is kept compact and simple, with five ramen flavours including original, miso, spicy, cheese, and truffle. Prices are also pretty reasonable, ranging from $10 – $12 for signature flavours.
The Black Truffle Ramen ($16) is the priciest item on the menu, and the most indulgent. The aromatic black truffle oil quickly permeated the atmosphere from the time the bowl first arrived at my table – or should I say, booth.
Taste wise, Gangsta Ramen’s dishes come across as pretty ordinary, although they certainly score points for affordability. The chashu is extra tender and falls apart easily, while the hanjuku egg is cooked just right.
What’s a bowl of ramen without some mouthwatering side dishes? Priced at $2.50 each, Gangsta Ramen’s side dishes include Chicken Wings, Chicken Cutlet, Smoked Duck, and Gyoza.
I had the Gyoza, and was pleasantly surprised to find morsels of prawn among the minced meat!
Here’s an added bonus for you all: follow Gangsta Ramen on Instagram and quote “GangstaFoodies” to redeem a free side dish with every bowl of ramen! Valid for the month of November 2019.
Address: Tanjong Pagar Plaza 02-10
Google Maps
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar EW 15
Opening Hours:
Monday to Friday: 11.30am – 8.30pm
Saturday: 11.30am – 2.30pm
Closed on Sunday
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