TLDR: Canberra’s cold weather lends itself to being the perfect place to enjoy hearty soul foods like Ramen! Ikigai’s Ramen is great, it has both traditional Ramen(simple and Tonkotsu) and modern twist(protein Ramen and spicy Edamame). Its decor is inviting, modern chic and yet warm; its open till midnight which is great for night owls like me! Needless to say, it my favorite Ramen place in Canberra.
Canberra dining options have truly exploded in last few years and Ikigai Ramen in Gungahlin, really sets a new standard. This isn’t just another ramen joint; it’s a passion project brought to life by Head Chef and owner Anj Sulit, who spent years perfecting her craft to bring an authentic taste of Tokyo to the nation’s capital.
More Than Just a Meal: The Ikigai Philosophy
The very name “Ikigai” translates to “the reason you wake up every morning,” and it’s clear that ramen is Anj’s true calling. Her journey began with a life-changing bowl in a humble Tokyo eatery, sparking a six-year quest to recreate not just the flavour, but the emotion of that experience. This dedication shines through in every aspect of Ikigai Ramen.
What Makes Ikigai Stand Out?
- The Broth – A Labour of Love: The heart of any great ramen is its broth, and at Ikigai, it’s a testament to patience and precision. Anj’s signature Tonkotsu broth, for example, is simmered for many hours, extracting every ounce of rich, creamy flavour from the bones. You can taste the depth and dedication in every spoonful.
- Beyond Tonkotsu: While the Tonkotsu is a crowd-favourite, Ikigai offers a carefully curated menu with other equally compelling options. The velvety chicken-based Tori Paitan, the umami-filled Shoyu Miso, and the innovative Ebi Curry (featuring crispy fried prawns!) offer a delightful range for every palate.
- Perfectly Paired Toppings: From the tender, flavourful chashu pork to the perfectly jammy ajitama (soy-marinated egg), every topping is meticulously prepared to complement the rich broths. Expect traditional inclusions like bamboo shoots, wood ear mushrooms, and fresh spring onion, all contributing to a balanced and satisfying bowl. Don’t miss the spicy version of their flagship for an extra layer of flavor!
- Other staples of Ramen joints: Their take on Edamame, making it a spicy affair was great, gyoza was good, and chicken karage was beautifully crispy. For the fitness freaks, protein rich ramen seems like a really good option, which seemed like a cool option, but we were craving some rich broth and you can only try so many things in a night.
- Late-Night Cravings Solved: In a city often quiet after dark, Ikigai Ramen is a true gem for night owls. They keep their doors open until midnight, catering to everyone, party people, shift workers, students, or anyone with a late-night ramen craving. It’s a testament to the idea that delicious, comforting food should be accessible whenever the craving strikes.
- A Thoughtful Dining Experience: The inviting, modern, and minimalist interior, with beautiful furniture and lighting great fixtures, creates a warm and intimate atmosphere. Combined with carefully curated playlists and friendly service, Ikigai offers more than just a meal; it’s an experience designed for comfort and connection.
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Beyond the Bowl:
While ramen takes centre stage, Ikigai also offers a tempting selection of small bites. Don’t pass up on the Miso Crab croquettes – creamy, umami-rich, and utterly addictive. Other options include Chicken Karaage, Gyoza, and Takoyaki, perfect for sharing (or not!).
Where to Find Your Ikigai:
You can find Ikigai Ramen at 43 Hibberson Street, Gungahlin.
Wait times: 15 mins, and they were quote busy that night.(it was a Friday night before long weekend)
Final Thoughts:
If you’re in Canberra and seeking an authentic, deeply satisfying ramen experience, Ikigai Ramen is an absolute must-visit. It’s a place where passion, precision, and the pursuit of a perfect bowl of noodles truly shine, delivering that glorious moment of ramen bliss that Anj Sulit set out to share. Go on, find your Ikigai in a steaming bowl of perfection!
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