Review - Sokyo Ramen Pop-Up
Extended beyond the initial end date of November, the popularity of the Sokyo Ramen Pop-Up by Chase Kojima, is undeniable. It’s situated in The Star’s food court, behind a brightly coloured wall of Asian cartoon kitsch. After ordering beneath the hot pink neon sign, you’ll be handed a buzzer that’ll vibrate when your ramen is ready to collect.
The first thing that’ll catch your eye is the sheet of nori (seaweed) with Sokyo Ramen (and the relevant social media hashtag) imprinted on it, adhered to the side of your bowl. It’s a cute touch, that neatly ensures images of it will flood your Instagram.
However at the business end of things, the Spicy Miso Tantanmen ($16) made on pork and seafood dashi, scattered with spicy pork mince and topped with an unmarinated egg, doesn’t quite make the grade. The broth is curiously unbalanced, and the odd tomato and broccolini additions don’t really do much to assist.
The Umami Tonkotsu 2.0 Ramen ($16) fares better: pork, chicken and seafood dashi is dotted with bamboo and black fungus, and adorned with a meager slice of tender pork cheek chashu, and half an unmarinated egg. The ramen noodles in both bowls are pleasantly toothsome. Alcohol isn’t available at this outlet, however you can always replenish the system with a Zico Coconut Water ($4.50) instead.
Sokyo Ramen Pop-Up
Level G, Cafe Court, The Star, 80 Pyrmont Street, Pyrmont
Ph: (1800) 700 700