Bodega Ramen: A Hidden Innercity Noodle Bar

Perched above Honest Chocolate Café and the secret Gin Bar on Wale Street, this new noodle joint has already garnered a loyal following. Previously based in Woodstock, Bodega’s latest incarnation in the innercity’s busiest restaurant hub is fast becoming the spot for a casual post-gin dinner.

The space, previously home to Melting Pot and then briefly Oxalis, has seen its fair share of transformations. It’s currently a cosy, warm and inviting eatery, with moody green walls, antique furnishings and retro art – the perfect spot for slurping up a comforting bowl of ramen.

What’s on the menu?

The homemade ramen bowls are generous, filled with lip-smackingly noodles that soak up all the flavourful broth. We recommend the miso charsu pork belly with pickles and ajitama egg and the braised-beef short-rib and kimchi ramen. There’s also a vegan option with shiitake, glazed tofu and slow-roasted tomatoes. It’s a serious hug in a bowl and might just be the ultimate hangover cure!

If you’re after some sharing plates, then go for the succulent and crunchy karaage (deep-fried) chicken or the charred broccoli with black vinegar and sesame. You won’t want to miss out on the burnt cabbage with peanuts, Kewpie mayonnaise and nori, either – a quarter head of tender, charred cabbage is a star on the menu and already a firm favourite.

If you can fit anything else in, make it a slice of the glorious burnt basque cheesecake (to enjoy with another glass of vino or as a take-home treat).

All of the above go beautifully with the boutique wines on their concise list, Ukhamba craft beer.

Opening times Tuesday + Saturday, 6pm – 11pm (kitchen closes 9.30pm)
Wednesday – Friday, 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 9.30pm (kitchen closes 9.30pm)
Contact details 078 241 3285, [email protected]
Address 64A Wale Street, Cape Town

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