Award-winning UK restaurant brand Maki & Ramen is officially landing in the capital with its first bricks-and-mortar London site, opening in Soho on 6th March 2026.
Taking over the former La Bodega Negra site at 9 Old Compton Street, the new 110-cover restaurant promises a vibrant, mid-range Japanese dining experience in the heart of one of London’s most energetic neighbourhoods.
Already a popular name across England and Scotland, the brand’s Soho debut marks a major milestone in its UK expansion.
A Late-Night Japanese Dining Destination in Soho
Designed to reflect Soho’s after-dark buzz, Maki & Ramen Soho blends traditional Japanese ramen shop aesthetics with contemporary flair. Expect natural wood finishes, warm lighting, neon accents and Japanese-inspired décor that creates an immersive yet relaxed setting.
With a 1AM alcohol licence, the venue will also double as a late-night bar. The downstairs space – once home to La Bodega Negra’s cave-like bar – will be revived with a curated drinks menu tailored to Soho’s nightlife crowd.
Guests can enjoy authentic Japanese beers, including the brand’s signature Makiburi lager, alongside theatrical cocktails such as Cherry Blossom, Japanese Elixir and Hanami. The standout serve, Geisha’s Kiss, delivers dramatic colour and smoke for a full sensory experience.
What’s on the Menu?
Maki & Ramen has built its reputation on serving authentic yet innovative Japanese dishes, catering to a wide range of dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan and halal options.
Signature dishes include:
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Black Garlic Tonkotsu Ramen
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Hell Ramen
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Halal Steak Tataki Ramen
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Salmon Teriyaki Roll
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Green Dragon Roll
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Chicken Gyoza
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Spicy Chicken Teriyaki Karaage
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Chicken Katsu Curry
Positioned between high-end dining and grab-and-go convenience, the menu delivers premium-quality Japanese favourites at accessible prices.
The drinks offering extends beyond cocktails, featuring matcha and bubble tea creations made in partnership with Perfect Ted, plus exclusive sodas crafted by XOXO Drinks.
From Edinburgh to London: The Maki & Ramen Story
Founded in 2015 by Teddy Lee, Maki & Ramen began as a single restaurant in Edinburgh before expanding into Glasgow and across major UK cities including Manchester, Leeds, Leicester, Sheffield, Newcastle, Aberdeen and Nottingham.
The brand previously launched a London franchise site at The O2 Arena, but Soho marks its first standalone bricks-and-mortar restaurant in the capital.
Maki & Ramen was named Scotland’s Best Japanese Restaurant by Deliveroo in both 2024 and 2026, alongside multiple industry accolades. In 2026, it was also nominated for four Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce Awards, including recognition for its partnership with Thistle Foundation.
Supporting The Felix Project
Community impact remains central to the brand’s ethos. In London, Maki & Ramen will partner with The Felix Project, donating £1 from every ramen sold on selected days and times to help tackle food waste and hunger across the capital.
£5 Ramen Launch Offer
To celebrate the Soho opening, Maki & Ramen will offer £5 ramen to the first 100 customers from 6th–8th March 2026 — making it one of the hottest food openings in London this spring.
Maki & Ramen Soho – Key Details
Opening Date: 6th March 2026
Address: 9 Old Compton Street, London W1D 5JF
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 1:00am, seven days a week
For more information, visit the official website: https://www.makiramen.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/makiramen
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@makiramen
