Yatai Ramenbar Weave Chefs Rikku O’Donnchu and Warwick King’s Take on Japanese Cuisine

Yatai ramenbar in Cape Town is one of the newer restaurants on Bree Street, one of the city’s buzziest dining precincts. Yatai, which translates to ‘street vendor’ in Japanese, takes a U-turn from its namesake and instead weaves together a finely curated menu where high-quality ingredients and chef’s artistry are served with a touch of theatricality.

What’s on the menu

Naturally the menu at Yatai remains firmly focused on ramen in authentic and modern iterations, from the 72-hour Tonkatsu broth bursting with umami to shio broth enriched with aged shoyu.

Here ramen noodles are traditionally stretched using an authentic noodle stretcher from Japan to echo the artisanal quality of each bowl. The style of ramen broth on offer is a modern take on “Kotteri” which means creamy and rich.

Beyond the ramen offering, expect a few signature dishes such as the luxurious wagyu katsu sando, a selection of dumplings, Robata grills, seafood and specialty desserts—all perfectly paired with Japanese-inspired cocktails, sake and whisky.

The brains behind Yatai are renowned chefs Rikku O’Donnchu and Warwick King, previously of Ex Gate and Exhibit A, who have joined forces again to bring a fine dining ramen concept to life with a theatrical twist. The alchemy of Japanese cuisine has always been a recurring theme in Chef Rikku’s cuisine, and he believes that the comforting flavours and rich legacy of ramen are a fresh addition to the dynamic food scene in Cape Town.

“Ramen has seen a surge in popularity around the world, especially in places like the U.S. where sales have risen 72% since 2000,” says Chef Warwick King. “We believe Cape Town, with its adventurous spirit and love for great food, will embrace our take on this beloved Japanese classic.”

The mood at Yatai

Guests can expect a moody and minimalist yet inviting interior design, perfect for date nights or intimate group dinner gatherings. Dark wood panelling, plush seating and a touch of bold cherry blossom motifs complete the cinematic and cosy atmosphere of the small eatery.

Go for the authentic Japanese ramenbar experience and dine at the bar. Here you can watch the mixologist team work their magic with fine cocktails from start to finish, using the vast collection of specialist spirits and sake.

Special offers at Yatai

Ramen Rush

Tuck into medium ramen bowls every Monday for R99. The offer excludes the Truffle Shoyu Wagyu Ramen and is valid for lunch and dinner. T&Cs apply.

Nomaikai at Yatai

Savour 50% off on the selection of experimental Japanese cocktails and sake carafes at Yatai with live DJ entertainment on Thursday, Friday and Saturday night from 10pm to 12am. T&Cs apply. This offer is not valid on First Thursday.