Bone Daddies Soho
Restaurant | London | England | United Kingdom
Best ramen restaurants in London
The "Bone Daddies Soho" in London is an iconic ramen restaurant that has been considered a pioneer of modern Japanese cuisine in the UK since its opening in 2012. Located in the vibrant Soho district, it was the first location of the now expanded Bone Daddies chain, founded by brothers Thom and James Elliot and chef Ross Shonhan. The restaurant was born out of a passion for authentic ramen, inspired by a journey through Italy in a Piaggio Ape van, where the founders learned the secrets of the perfect broth. It combines traditional Japanese techniques with a distinctive rock 'n' roll character and has established itself as a staple of London's dining scene.
Authentic japanese food Soho
The atmosphere at Bone Daddies Soho is lively and unconventional. Upon entering, you are greeted by a wave of classic rock music that permeates the space - a tribute to the rebellious soul of the restaurant. The decor is simple but striking, with high stools, long communal tables, and walls adorned with images of tattooed Japanese rockabillies. It is not a place for a quiet dinner; instead, there is an energetic, almost loud vibe that perfectly complements the bustling atmosphere of Soho. The open kitchen allows guests to witness the sizzling of ingredients and the art of preparation up close, emphasizing the authenticity and freshness of the food.
Lively atmosphere at Bone Daddies
Culinarily, it's all about ramen, with the broth being the centerpiece of each dish. The "Tonkotsu Ramen" is a classic - a rich pork bone broth that is cooked for over 20 hours to achieve a creamy, deep texture, served with grilled chashu pork belly and a perfectly cooked soy-marinated egg. For those who like it spicier, the "Pork Pork Chilli" is a popular choice: a spicy blend of pork, chili oil, and crispy bean sprouts that challenges the palate. The "T22 Chicken Ramen" also stands out, with a lighter chicken broth enhanced with crispy "Cock Scratchings" - fried chicken skin crumbs - adding an unexpected texture. In addition to ramen, there are delicious sides like the "Sweet & Spicy Pig Bones," juicy pork ribs in a sweet and spicy glaze that provide a perfect contrast to the broth.
Try Tonkotsu ramen in London
The drink selection complements the food with a range of Japanese classics such as sake and shochu, but also creative cocktails like the "Yuzu Margarita," which balances the spicy food with its citrusy freshness. Bone Daddies Soho places a strong emphasis on quality - the broths are made in a separate kitchen in Bermondsey to ensure that every spoonful meets the high standard. The noodles are also freshly prepared daily, elevating the taste and texture to a new level.
Rock music and ramen combination
The service is fast and friendly, in line with the laid-back atmosphere. The staff is focused on providing guests with a straightforward experience and remains efficient even when the restaurant is full - a common occurrence in Soho, as the restaurant does not accept reservations and often has queues outside. There is occasionally criticism of the noise level or tight seating arrangements, but for most, this adds to the charm. The option to order food for takeaway also makes it flexible for those who prefer to enjoy the rock 'n' roll vibe at home.
