What doesn't Westfield Stratford have, eh? This modern cornucopia in the heart of east London is brimming with shops, entertainment, bars and restaurants, with pretty much something for everyone. If you're someone who has a particular penchant for ramen, then don't worry, your needs will be met by Shoryu Ramen, a Japanese restaurant from the team behind the Japan Centre.
Shoryu has branches all over the city, each one with a slightly different identity. The Westfield location is a casual affair and coined as more of a 'raman bar' than full-out restaurant. Perfect for stopping mid-shopping trip or having a quick bite with a friend, you'll find the raman bar on the lower ground floor all day, usually until late with closing times until 9pm during the week.
The space features a large, stainless steel counter, a grab-and-go section as well as minimalist, wooden seating in classic Japanese style. On the menu, you'll find plenty of your Shoryu favourites such as Dracula Tonkotsu, alongside Beef Sukiyaki Udon and Kitsune Soba. Whether noodles, sushi or small, hot plates are your thing, you'll be able to find it all here.
For those who want to grab something to take away, there's an exciting selection of freshly made sushi, sashimi and hot sozai food, but this is also a great place to stock up on Japanese cooking essentials. In fact, the Westfield Stratford branch acts like a hybrid between Shoryu's usual restaurants and the Japan Centres stores. Here, you'll be able to get your hands on authentic cookery products, perfect for trying out some of your most-loved recipes at home.
There's even a range of Japanese biscuits, sweets, candies and, of course, mochi - as well as beers and sake that you can enjoy while you're there, or take back with you! It's a shopping trip and meal all in one.