In our new section “KACHEN Tests,” we conduct surprise visits to trending restaurants. Last Thursday, June 6, 2024, our journalist Marie reviewed the ramen bar Nanban in Luxembourg City.
Everyone around me keeps raving about it: You absolutely must try the ramen restaurant Nanban, which opened in January on Rue Sainte-Zithe. As a fan of Japan and its traditional noodle soups, I was eager to visit. However, don’t plan a spontaneous visit””this place is extremely popular, especially at lunchtime, so reservations are highly recommended. Ten days before my planned visit, I secured a spot on the waiting list for 12:45 PM.
Dining at the Counter
I quickly found a parking spot close to the restaurant, which turned out to be quite lucky. Upon entering, I was warmly welcomed and seated at the counter. Much like in Japanese Izakayas, minus the bistro atmosphere, you can watch the chef at work while you eat. All the ingredients are prepped and ready to be assembled, just like in Japan. The owner, Tania Passos, prepares each dish with calm precision.
Packed to the Brim
After briefly considering a Kirin, I opted for an Asahi, another light Japanese blonde beer. Always a good choice. The lunchtime crowd around me preferred Lodyss. Understandably, many patrons are on their lunch break and have to return to work. By 1 PM, the previously packed restaurant begins to empty, making it easier to find a seat without a reservation.
Perfect Eggs
The English menu quickly caught my eye: “Chef’s Ramen”””it must be the signature dish, so I went for it! I also considered the Tonkotsu with pork, but I’ll save that for next time. My dish arrived swiftly. In the large broth-filled bowl were pieces of veal and two beautifully cooked eggs. These are Ajitsuke Tamago (“seasoned eggs”), also known as Ajitama. They are a key ingredient in any good ramen dish, and these were perfect.
A Delicate Broth
I reached for the metal chopsticks provided next to the spoon. While I’m more accustomed to wooden chopsticks, I quickly adapted. Upon tasting the dish, I was immediately impressed by its finesse. Every element was superb: high-quality broth, fine noodles, and perfectly seasoned veal. This ramen was on another level, incomparable to the cheap ramen from vending machines in Tokyo, which, while charming in their own right, belong to a different category.
Unlimited Noodles and Broth
I finished my delicious bowl, and the owner asked, “More broth? Noodles?” Both are available upon request, but the regular portion of “Chef’s Ramen” was more than sufficient for me.
My verdict? A fantastic place! There was no dessert this time as everything is homemade, and the chef hadn’t had time to prepare any that morning. We forgive her and look forward to our next visit””for both the ramen and the desserts!
Nanban
29 Rue Saint-Zithe
2763 Luxembourg
Monday, Friday, and Saturday: noon-3 PM, 6:30 PM-10 PM
Wednesday: 6:30 PM-10 PM
Thursday: noon-3 PM
