Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey that combines the rich flavors of Japanese cuisine with the soothing ambiance of a beachfront paradise? Look no further than Ramenrique, the brainchild of owner Enrique De Dios, a hidden gem nestled in Elyu (La Union). If you have a penchant for Japanese cuisine and seek a unique dining experience by the beach, this is the place to be. And here’s a tantalizing sneak peek of what awaits you at Ramenrique:
How Ramenrique Started
Ramenrique, owned by Enrique De Dios, is a must-visit ramen shop in Elyu (also known as La Union) for those who love Japanese cuisine and are looking for a unique dining experience by the beach. If you’re lucky, you might even see them making the noodles, as it’s made fresh in-house weekly!
Here’s some information on what you can expect at Ramenrique:
Menu Highlights:
Gyoza: Start your meal with the delicious gyoza, featuring a crispy exterior and a flavorful, warm filling. The traditional dipping sauce complements them perfectly.
Karaage: If you’re waiting for your main ramen orders, try the karaage (chicken nuggets). These crispy and tasty chicken bites are ideal for both adults and kids.
Bonitofu: The chilled slices of silky tofu, sesame dressing, chili powder, and bonito flakes make for a refreshing and flavorful appetizer. Each bite offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Spicy Miso Ramen: This ramen option features a balance of creaminess and heat. The chashu (sliced pork) and ramen eggs are prepared in-house, adding to the authenticity of the dish.
Tantamen Ramen: Similar to the Spicy Miso Ramen, the Tantamen Ramen boasts fresh, high-quality ingredients. The savory broth with a hint of spiciness pairs perfectly with the ajitsuke tamago (marinated ramen egg).
Tsukumen Ramen: A recent addition to the menu, the Tsukumen Ramen is unique as it comes with chilled, chewy noodles topped with chashu and ajitsuke tamago served alongside a warm, flavorful broth in a separate bowl. You can dip the noodles into the broth or add the broth to the noodles for a versatile dining experience.
Location: Ramenrique is located in Elyu’s Surftown area. To get there, you can make your way from the beachside through an entrance near Monaliza Surf Resort. Look for the distinct Japanese signages and a dining area inspired by classic Japanese shop stands (yatai) that typically sell ramen bowls during festivals. The cozy atmosphere adds to the charm of this ramen spot.
Quality and Craftsmanship: Ramenrique takes pride in not taking shortcuts in their preparation. It took the team six months to perfect their ramen bowls, including the creation of their noodles. They prepare everything in-house, from the noodles to the chashu and ajitsuke tamago, ensuring the highest quality.
Atmosphere: The restaurant has a small and intimate setup, allowing you to watch the team as they prepare your ramen, dumplings, and appetizers. This transparency reflects their commitment to using the best quality ingredients and careful preparation. Bonus: As you sit by the bar, prepare to be welcomed by a Japanese ramen cat meme!
History: Unknown to many, Inky’s affection for Japanese food began a long time ago. The spark for the idea of opening a ramen shop ignited when he chanced upon a ramen arena during one of his many trips to Japan. Imagine a place with over 50 ramen booths! The preliminary phase of the ramen shop in Elyu consisted of successive pop-ups, each version refining the recipe based on customer feedback.
Other amenities:
- Excited to share your experience with friends? Free Wi-Fi!
- Family-friendly? Definitely!
- Coming with your furry friend? Pets are welcome.
- Beach access: It’s a quick minute away from the beach!
- Business hours: Fri-Sat, 11am-9pm. Sun 10am-2pm
- Follow on Facebook and Instagram @ramenrique.ph
- Delivery: Drop them a message on their socials!
Ramenrique Elyu Menu
Conclusion
Whether you’re a surfer looking for a satisfying post-surf meal or simply a ramen enthusiast, Ramenrique is a must-visit spot in Elyu. Don’t forget to finish your meal with complimentary in-house green tea for a truly memorable dining experience. Be sure to check their opening hours and consider making a reservation, as this popular ramen spot tends to get busy. Enjoy your ramen cravings at Ramenrique!
