Matsudai Ramen
A cult ramen spot in Cardiff, renowned for its deep, thoughtful bowls of authentic Japanese ramen and expertly prepared sides.
Highlights
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Matsudai Ramen
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A cult ramen spot in Cardiff, renowned for its deep, thoughtful bowls of authentic Japanese ramen and expertly prepared sides.
"Matsudai Ramen is STILL some of the best ramen I’ve had outside of Japan."
Try Recommended Dishes
Opt for signature ramen like Sunset Red or Yasai Paitan for an exceptional culinary journey.
Avoid Peak Times
Visit during off-peak hours to minimize potential wait times due to the restaurant's popularity.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Japanese Ramen
Price
Mid-range
Phone
+44 29 2022 6510
Address
183-185 Clare Rd, Cardiff, CF11 6QS, United Kingdom
Website
matsudai.co.uk/Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Exceptional Ramen
Cult ramen spot praised for deep flavors, perfectly cooked noodles, and thoughtful toppings. A must-visit for ramen lovers.
Crispy Karaage
Juicy, crispy, and tender chicken karaage with a delightful curry mayo dipping sauce.
Warm & Welcoming Atmosphere
Despite some critiques, many praise the knowledgeable and kind staff creating a cozy, vibey dining experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Try Recommended Dishes
Opt for signature ramen like Sunset Red or Yasai Paitan for an exceptional culinary journey.
Avoid Peak Times
Visit during off-peak hours to minimize potential wait times due to the restaurant's popularity.
Consider Public Transport
Take the train to Grangetown station, followed by a short walk for easy access.
Embrace the Experience
Expect a lively atmosphere, vibey music, and an open kitchen; not a quiet dining spot.
Tips
from all over the internet
Try Recommended Dishes
Opt for signature ramen like Sunset Red or Yasai Paitan for an exceptional culinary journey.
Avoid Peak Times
Visit during off-peak hours to minimize potential wait times due to the restaurant's popularity.
Consider Public Transport
Take the train to Grangetown station, followed by a short walk for easy access.
Embrace the Experience
Expect a lively atmosphere, vibey music, and an open kitchen; not a quiet dining spot.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Matsudai Ramen is highly praised for its exceptional ramen, with many hailing it as the best in the UK. Diners love the depth of flavor in the broths and the quality of the ingredients. However, some reviews mention slow service, especially during busy periods, and occasional issues with saltiness or noodle preparation. The chicken karaage is a standout starter.
"Matsudai is definitely the best spot in Cardiff for ramen, and it’s absolutely worthy of all the praise it gets. I’ve been twice now, and the food has been nothing short of incredible. Their limited menu might seem a little daunting at first - especially as a vegetarian - but every dish is so well-balanced, clean, and expertly crafted that it’s clear they focus on quality over quantity.
The yasai paitan is, without a doubt, the best vegetarian ramen I’ve ever had. The depth of flavour in the broth, the perfectly cooked noodles, and the thoughtful toppings make it a standout dish, proving that great ramen doesn’t need to rely on meat to be rich and satisfying.
The staff are lovely, attentive without being overbearing, genuinely kind, and incredibly knowledgeable about the menu, always happy to offer recommendations. The only downside is that service can sometimes be a little slow, but given their well-deserved popularity, it’s understandable. The food is 100% worth the wait. Matsudai is an absolute must-visit if you're in Cardiff."
Zoe Lott
"I’ve been following Matsudai since their early pop-up days, and then became an avid kit enjoyer until their restaurant opened. I unfortunately moved away in ‘22 and after 3 years finally found myself in the area! I came with high expectations and they were exceeded. I stand firmly by the statement that Matsudai is STILL some of the best ramen I’ve had outside of Japan. I had the Shoyu upgraded to Tokusei (deluxe) it was so flavorful and amazing just like I remembered. I only wish I still lived in the country to enjoy Matsudai more often.."
Lady Venom
"Below mediocre; we’re unsure as to how it has maintained such a high rating. Would avoid.
The countertop was sticky and the service was somewhat slow despite the relative lack of customers (it was late in the evening). The pacing of dishes was good.
The chicken karaage was the highlight of the meal, and perhaps the only recommendable dish. The chicken was juicy, crispy, tender — everything you’d expect — and paired nicely with the curry mayo sauce.
The mini chashu don was underwhelming for £6. The rice was barely seasoned and the grains didn’t stick to each other, unlike traditional Japanese rice. The chashu itself had a nice smoky flavor but it wasn’t particularly seasoned either, meaning the overall dish was bland.
The iekei-inspired ramen was average. Although the broth was too salty, it still had the depth expected of pork bone broth, and the chashu was tender (albeit very thinly sliced). Unfortunately, the shoyu ramen had no redeeming factors. The noodles were slightly undercooked, nearly crunchy, and the broth was exceptionally salty yet somehow simultaneously flavorless.
Both dishes were lukewarm when they arrived, likely because they had been waiting for a while on the countertop before a member of staff finally delivered them to the table. We couldn’t finish either bowl.
Nothing is more heartbreaking than spending a decent amount of money on disappointing food and service, and this place is expensive. To add insult to injury, one member of staff held out the tip machine, turning it so that he could also see our choice, and watched judgmentally as we pressed No Tip (having been put off by the entire dining experience and the additional 20% VAT). Do look elsewhere if you’re searching for a satisfying meal."
keon !
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Many reviewers rave about the signature ramen dishes like 'Sunset Red' and 'Yasai Paitan'. The chicken karaage is also a highly recommended starter. [^R3, ^M1]
The restaurant is very popular, and it can be difficult to find availability. Visiting during off-peak hours is advised to avoid long waits. [^R8, ^M7]
Yes, Matsudai Ramen offers vegetarian and vegan options, with the 'Yasai Paitan' being a popular choice.
The atmosphere is described as lively and vibey, with an open kitchen and music. It's not a quiet dining spot, but it's considered enjoyable for a casual meal.
While not cheap, diners generally find the food tasty and well-crafted, making it a worthwhile experience. Some reviews mention it can be expensive. +1
The restaurant is easily accessible by public transportation, with Grangetown station being the closest stop followed by a short walk. [^datatip3]
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2025 Reviews By A Local Expert
Recognised as the first dedicated ramen shop in Wales, this Grangetown joint is buzzing with friendly, knowledgeable staff who will help you pile high on sumptuous noodles, broth, and toppings. Matsudai Ramen regularly hosts takeover events with renowned chefs and foodie figures, as well as stocking freezable DIY kits, so that fans can craft their favourites at home. Try the creamy tori paitan, and save space for the karaage mushroom, which is served with vegan curry mayo.
Matsudai Ramen, Cardiff: ‘Bowls of deep care and thoughtfulness’ – restaurant review | Food
In the beginning was a logo: two concentric rings to represent a bowl, with two lines representing chopsticks bisecting them, their tips touching in the centre. Around the edge are the words Matsudai Ramen, which roughly means “Ramen Forever”. James Chant, a one-time musician, tour manager for noughties indie bands you won’t recall and organiser of music festivals, had turned 40 and needed a new direction.
The Best Ramen in Cardiff | TOP 10
Matsudai Ramen, hailing from Wales, has forged a unique identity in the culinary world with its dedication to crafting “bowls of deep care and thoughtfulness,” a sentiment echoed by critics like Jay Rayner. Specializing in cult ramen, the brand has garnered a loyal following, reflected in over 20,000 orders and an impressive average rating of 4.78 out of 5 from more than a thousand verified reviews. Their range encompasses classic, limited edition, plant-based, and regular ramen kits, all designed for quick preparation and suitability for freezing, bringing restaurant-quality ramen into homes.
What Cardiff's diners are saying about the city's newest restaurants and bars
It started as a pop-up and mail-order venture, but Matsudai Ramen has quickly become one of the hottest spots for foodies in Cardiff after opening its first permanent home in Grangetown in August. Such is its popularity it can be difficult to find availability at the Clare Road restaurant, but if you are lucky enough to nab a seat, you can enjoy everything from signature ramen dishes to gyoza, salads and fried chicken. There's even a dish celebrating the flavours of Caroline Street!
Best Japanese restaurants in Cardiff [2024]
Address: 183-185 Clare Rd, Cardiff CF11 6QS, United KingdomPhone: +44 29 2022 6510Website:matsudai.co.ukDetails: Ramen restaurant. Embark on a culinary adventure at Matsudai Ramen At The Bank, a Cardiff haven that blends exceptional ramen creations, a vibrant atmosphere, and attentive service. The restaurant has garnered a devoted following for its delectable offerings and warm hospitality.
Best Restaurants in Cardiff 2025
Early in 2018, self-taught chef James Chant, then working in the music industry, set off on a journey into the complexities of ramen that would see him emerge as an acclaimed custodian of the dish. His Matsudai restaurant is manna for devotees seeking deeply flavoured, soul-stirring bowls of tonkotsu pork or shoyu (meaning soy sauce flavoured) chicken and seafood broth.
an enviable opening for Cardiff hotspot
Pop-ups in local restaurants, high-profile collaborations, a busy mail order business and recommendations from national food writers – and now this, a first permanent venue on Clare Road in Grangetown. Inside it’s unfussy but homely, and service is sparky and brisk. It has to be: Matsudai Ramen is Cardiff’s most keenly anticipated opening this year, and very busy.
The Best Restaurants In Cardiff | 15 Must-Visit Spots
Not only do Matusdai Ramen make some of the best ramen in Cardiff, but they make some of the best ramen in the UK, full stop. From golden and umami shoyu to creamy, chicken-y tori paitan, the range of ramen available at this cult Clare Road spot is second-to-none. The prices are rather friendly, too, with most bowls kicking around the £15 mark.
Le Mandela | Restaurants in Cardiff
For too long this area has been neglected in the Cardiff conversation: and although Matsudai Ramen is quite rightly drawing praise from all corners, there’s plenty more to enjoy in the area: Pakistani, Somali, Nigerian, Yemeni, Cameroonian cooking and more. After a pint in The Grange, of course.
Unique Restaurants in Cardiff: 12 Coolest Places to Eat
Matsudai Ramen shines out as one of the most fun places to eat in Cardiff, especially for those who love a good bowl of ramen. It’s a spot where authenticity and flavor reign supreme. Walk in and feel the buzz of a place dedicated to the art of ramen.
Gourmet Gorro - Cardiff food blog featuring restaurant reviews from Wales and beyond: Ten of the best things I've eaten in Cardiff in 2020
James Chant’s excellent Matsudai Ramen is another business which has brought me much comfort this year. Their home delivery frozen ramen kits are just the ticket after another day sat in front of Zoom.
300 Local Restaurants near Roath Cardiff
Matsudai Ramen is Wales' first and only proper, standalone ramen shop. It was launched in September 2019 by self-confessed ‘ramen geek’ James Ch ...
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