Ivan Orkin is a big deal in the ramen world. He won over Japanese diners with his debut ramen shop in Tokyo in the mid-2000s before heading back to his native New York, bringing his eponymous ramen concept with him. He’s now considered an authority on the bolstering noodle soup. Beyond New York and Japan, Orkin made a name for himself on a 2017 episode of Chef’s Table. He has also treated Londoners to his ramen a handful of times – including during a popular 2023 stint at Sessions in Islington and a pop-up at The Ned earlier this year.
Now, Orkin is going London-official.
A permanent Ivan Ramen outpost will open in Clerkenwell in November, with room for 26 diners. On the menu, expect hit ramens from Orkin’s New York location, including the tonkotsu, chicken paitan and spicy miso numbers, as well as karaage chicken. He’ll also be putting a London-only dish on the menu: salt beef bao with pickled cucumber and karashi mustard mayo – a nod to Brick Lane’s classic bagels.
“London isn’t just a world-class restaurant destination,” said Orkin in a statement. “It is home to one of the most exciting ramen scenes anywhere. I’ve always loved this city, and I’m beyond thrilled to finally be a part of it.”
Ivan Ramen London opens on November 19 at 98 Farringdon Road, EC1R 3EA.
