In our section “KACHEN Tests”, we conduct surprise visits to new restaurants. Our journalist reviewed the restaurant Gokumi Ramen in Differdange.
The ramen trend has certainly not bypassed Differdange. The latest addition to offer these Japanese noodle dishes in the Iron City is Gokumi Ramen, located in the former premises of the Chinese restaurant GoodWill on Avenue Charlotte, right in the town centre. I had lunch there on Thursday, 29 November.
A Little Trip to Kyoto
Gone is the outdated Chinese-Japanese restaurant of old: in its place, a fresh new décor that transports diners to the historic streets and alleyways of Kyoto, thanks to large photographic reproductions above the tables. For the duration of the meal, one feels momentarily whisked away to the Land of the Rising Sun.
Manga and Lanterns
From the entrance, and visible in the window, clusters of elongated paper lanterns with Japanese patterns provide an eye-catching decorative touch. In this first room, you step into the manga-themed section of the restaurant, greeted by a towering Naruto figurine overseeing a central table and surrounded by posters paying homage to some of the most iconic manga characters, both past and present.
In the second dining area, wooden structures resembling small houses divide the tables and spaces, with floating fabric banners known as noren serving as partitions, particularly in front of the open kitchen a style of decoration commonly seen in Japan.
Kawaii or not Kawaii
The chicken bao: I am a big fan of bao. When it arrived at the table, I admit I found it slightly kitsch with its little blue parasol charmingly out of step with modern trends, even if the kawaii style deliberately embraces a certain old-fashioned aesthetic. The chicken itself was tasty, albeit a little overcooked and overly crispy, while the bao was somewhat rubbery and lacked the desired fluffiness.
The katsudon, a bowl of rice topped with a breaded pork cutlet cooked with beaten egg, was enjoyable. It’s a very common dish in Japan, though not always easy to find locally. While comparisons are tricky, it’s nice to have the opportunity to taste it here.
Great Marinated Eggs
The tonkotsu ramen arrived garnished with narutomaki, a white fish cake featuring a pink spiral. As per tradition, the dish was topped with marinated eggs (ajitsuke tamago). Being a devoted fan, I had ordered an extra portion of eggs in advance, and I was not disappointed. They were absolutely delicious. While the noodles had a pleasing texture, I wasn’t particularly taken with the pork preparation, and the broth was a little too bland for my taste.
Finally, the spicy beef ramen. While this dish had more flavour and depth, the broth still lacked the delicate balance I look for.
A Brief Escape
In conclusion: For a small, enjoyable escape that takes you momentarily “beyond borders”, Gokumi Ramen is a great spot in Differdange. The dishes are fairly basic, the noodles are satisfying, and special mention must go to their excellent marinated eggs.
Prices start at €18.80 for a bowl of ramen.
Gokumi Ramen
8, Avenue Charlotte
L-4530 Differdange
Luxembourg
Open: Tuesday to Sunday, 11:30am—2:30pm and 6:00pm—10:30pm
Monday: 6:00pm—10:30pm
