This casual-dining Japanese restaurant has become a favourite among British crowds over the years for its hearty ramens and everyone’s favourite, chicken katsu curry. Although arguably these are the most popular dishes on the menu, Wagamama still has lots on offer in its sleek and modern restaurant.
Originally set up to showcase the best of Japanese ramen dishes, you’ll find an array of different flavours and levels of spice to choose from. Try the miso cod ramen or chilli sirloin steak for a real kick.
Perhaps the most famous item on menu, the katsu curry can now be made vegetarian with sweet potato, aubergine and butternut squash, or you can get the vegan option, which has seitan instead of chicken. The katsu curry is no longer just enjoyed by meat-eaters. Also featured on the menu is donburi rice bowls with a choice of meats or veg, teppanyaki noodle dishes and Japanese salads for if you’re on a health kick.
The laid-back environment at Wagamama is something the chain prides itself on, and it also means you won’t find the starter, main, dessert structure here. Instead, expect dishes to come as and when they are ready and in no particular order. Your mains might come way before your sides but it doesn’t matter in this restaurant as every dish manages to seamlessly fit together.
Lastly, check out the desserts. Sweet treats may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Wagamamas, but the dessert menu is worth a try as they fuse together Asian flavours with well-known western puds. Give the white chocolate ginger cheesecake with chili toffee a go, or perhaps the matcha cheesecake. For the die-hard katsu fans, the banana katsu is a sweet take on the dish that you just cannot miss.
When it comes to casual Japanese dining, you can’t go wrong with a Wagamama’s. The relaxed and modern atmosphere teamed with a plethora of flavourful dishes make it a go-to when it comes to quick, cheap and tasty dining.