Tonkotsu Ramen To Open in Cardiff

Popular Japanese ramen chain Tonkotsu is preparing to open its first Welsh location in the heart of Cardiff city centre.

The Japanese chain serves dishes freshly-made from scratch, including noodles, katsu curries, gyozas and broths.

The brand, which currently runs 18 restaurants across England, has been granted planning permission by Cardiff Council to open a new branch at 7 High Street, Cardiff City Centre, taking over the former Bernstein’s Curtain Specialist premises.

Founded in 2012 by Ken Yamada and Emma Reynolds, Tonkotsu has earned a cult following for its rich, homemade broths and freshly made noodles. Tonkotsu also boasts venues in London, Birmingham and Brighton. Ingredients used are from welfare-friendly family businesses, including pork from Dingley Dell on the east coast of Suffolk and Clarence Court eggs from Wiltshire.

From its humble beginnings in Soho, the brand has grown steadily, opening sites across London as well as in Birmingham, Brighton, Bristol and beyond. The move to Cardiff marks a significant milestone in Tonkotsu’s mission to expand further across the UK.

Each dish on the menu is made fresh daily – from the hand-pulled noodles to the house-made gyoza – a key part of the chain’s reputation for authenticity and flavour. There are also several vegan options available, including Japanese mushroom miso and chilli tofu.

The opening date has not yet been confirmed, but the arrival of Tonkotsu is already generating excitement among Cardiff’s growing foodie scene. The previous occupant of the High Street site, Bernstein’s, has been preparing to exit the premises since late 2023 as it shifts to an online business model.

We’ll share more updates on the official launch date as soon as it’s announced – but it looks like Cardiff’s ramen scene is about to level up.