Monki Ramen
Nestled in the heart of the city's charming Altstadt-St. Lorenz district, Monki Japanese Restaurant offers a vibrant and authentic taste of modern Japanese cuisine. Beyond just a place to eat, Monki is an experience that caters to both seasoned lovers of Japanese food and curious newcomers.
At its core, Monki is a ramen and izakaya restaurant, a combination that promises both hearty, comforting meals and a selection of small plates perfect for sharing and sampling. The menu is a thoughtful exploration of traditional flavors with a modern twist, using high-quality ingredients, including fresh, homemade ramen noodles.
The Ramen Experience
The star of the show at Monki is undoubtedly the ramen. Reviewers consistently praise the rich, flavorful broths that form the foundation of each bowl. The menu features a variety of options to suit every palate. The classic Classic Shoyu offers a pure, soy-based chicken broth with a delicate flavor profile, topped with pork chashu, a perfectly cooked egg, and fresh vegetables like shiitake mushrooms and asparagus. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, the Spicy Tan Tan is a popular choice, featuring a spicy miso broth and minced pork. The Yuzu Shio provides a refreshing and aromatic alternative, with a salt-based broth and a hint of citrusy yuzu paste.
A key highlight is the ability to customize your ramen bowl. You can choose your type of chashu (pork or chicken), add extra noodles, or elevate the spice level with chili oil. For vegetarian and vegan visitors, Monki goes above and beyond with dedicated options like the Vegan Shoyu and Vegan Kara Miso, both crafted with a rich vegetable broth and silky tofu.
Beyond the Ramen Bowl: Izakaya and Small Plates:
The izakaya portion of the menu is where Monki truly shines as a social dining destination. These small plates, designed for sharing, allow you to explore a wide range of Japanese flavors. The Homemade Stick Gyoza are a fan favorite, praised for their crispy texture and flavorful pork filling. Karaage, the Japanese style of fried chicken, is another must-try, served with your choice of a sweet Nanban sauce or spicy mayo.
You'll also find unique and inventive dishes that showcase the kitchen's creativity. The Pico Pico is a delicate salmon carpaccio served with Pico De Gallo, while the Nori Tacos offer a unique take on tacos with seaweed shells, avocado cream, and mixed raw fish. Katsu Sando, a popular Japanese street food, is available as a delicious sandwich featuring a panko-breaded chicken cutlet. Vegan and vegetarian options are also plentiful in this section, from Daikon Mochi (fried rice cakes with radish) to grilled Nasu (eggplant with miso sauce).
The drink menu is equally impressive, featuring a selection of international cocktails, Japanese spirits, and sake. Reviewers often mention the great tea selection and a variety of house-made drinks, such as Yuzu Lemonade, which perfectly complement the meal.
The Atmosphere and Vibe: A Welcoming and Cozy Retreat
Monki's ambiance is a significant part of its appeal. Located on a central street, the restaurant itself is a bit of a hidden gem, which adds to the feeling of discovering a secret spot. The interior is described as warm, cozy, and inviting, with a modern Japanese aesthetic. Natural wood materials, warm lighting, and cool decor create a laid-back, yet refined setting that encourages you to linger and enjoy your meal.
The dining experience is often praised for its friendly and efficient service. Despite being a popular spot with a constant flow of customers, the staff is known for being attentive and polite. During busy periods, you might have to wait for a table, but the staff has been known to offer hot tea to those waiting outside on cold days, a small gesture that speaks volumes about their hospitality. The music is often upbeat, contributing to the energetic and lively atmosphere. While it's a bustling spot, it's not overwhelmingly loud, making it suitable for both a casual lunch and a relaxed dinner with friends or family.