Did you know that RamenPlay does not only serve ramen? They have expanded their menu to include donburi (rice bowl) and really affordable Shabu Shabu too! You seriously have to try them if you haven’t, because I was really surprised by their offerings! To avoid disappointment, do note that the Shabu Shabu set is currently available at only 4 of their restaurants: BreadTalk IHQ (from 5pm onwards), NEX, JEM and Velocity @ Novena Square!
SHABU SHABU
Protein: Australian Striploin Beef ($14.90) or Brazilian Pork Collar ($13.90)
Soup base: Clear or Kimchi (+$1)
This shabu shabu is generously portioned with assorted vegetables, tofu, mushrooms and your choice of meats, soup base and staple (udon or rice). I was surprised with the portion of food served to us, because with that price, it is so affordable and value for money!
The clear soup is made by simmering chicken bones and shoyu, hence despite its lightness, it was also very flavorful and satisfying. Something comforting I would look forward to after a long day of work. The kimchi soup features Korean-imported kimchi with clear chicken soup. 2 words – DAMN SHIOK.
For the staples, there is a choice of Niigata Koshihikari rice, the number one rice grain in Niigata Japan, which is smooth and easily to swallow; or the udon, which gives it a springy touch. Ramen Play also takes pride in its protein used, that are imported from the various countries to ensure top quality and succulent meats for your enjoyment.
That’s not all at Ramen Play! Their all-time favorites are also good to go for when you’re there to try out their NEW Shabu Shabu set! As usual, all their foods are of good value, quality and definitely not lacking in its taste!
Starters
1. Crispy Dango ($3.60 for 3 pieces)
These chicken meatballs are one of its kind! Crisp on the outside, juicy and succulent on the inside. You’ve got to bite them carefully to prevent the juices from splashing on to you! The mayonnaise and plum sauce drizzled upon it makes them even more irresistible!
2. Crispy Chicken Gyoza ($3.60 for 3 pieces/ $5.80 for 6)
If you love your guo tie, you would love this. Minced chicken wrapped within a crispy dumpling exterior, garnished with the tantalizing goma (Sesame) sauce. Anything with sesame sauce… It’s GOOD.
3) Bamboo Chicken ($3 for 1 pcs, $5.80 for 2)
Minced Chicken Thighs that are grilled in bamboos. To me, this tasted just like the meatballs, just without the crunch, a healthier alternative for you, perhaps? This is served together with a raw egg yolk dip! Don’t expect any much difference to the taste with this dip like what I did, because there won’t be any! But it definitely added on to the texture of this dish!
Mains
1) Toroniku Uobushi Tonkotsu Ramen ($11.80 for 3 pcs Toroniku, $14.80 for 5)Let me teach you some Japanese. Toroniku = Pork cheek. Okay, that’s all you need to know.
This is one of RamenPlay’s best sellers and I can see why. The seared pork cheek in this dish was surprisingly MELT IN YOUR MOUTH good. Like literally melt in your mouth! Mmm.. Besides, I loved the firm texture of the Kyushu Ramen as it complements and emphasizes on the tenderness of the pork cheek. Of course, the broth is boiled with smoked fish and pork bones to give that extra sweetness and comfort in the entire dish!
2) Butariki Ishinabe ($13.80)
Eh I never scold bad word. Butariki Ishinabe is basically rice with pan-fried and barbecued pork, spring onions, seaweed, raw egg, and also RamenPlay’s secret sauce! This rice is not just the normal rice we usually consume, this is served with the Niigata Koshihkari rice, which has a slightly different texture that’s more pearly and smooth!
Dessert
1) Warabi Matcha Mochi Ice Cream ($6.80 ala carte, $4.80 with main course)
Matcha-flavored ice cream served with azuki beans and mochi. Wa.. The textures in this one – NAILED IT. I loved the combination of the 3 textures, however taste wise, I am not a fan of matcha, hence… I thought it was too strong for my liking, which means all you match lovers out there would love it eh?
Drink
Perfect drink to go along with your meal at RamenPlay because it is SO refreshing. Made with premium yuzu juice, soda, and yuzu peel, this was one zesty drink. It made me feel healthier and less fat after ingesting it, so maybe you guys should have this for the desired placebo effect! Haha! An alcoholic version is also available for the same price, with the addition of 15% soju!
Closing Remarks
I was sincerely blown away by RamenPlay’s offerings on their menu. With the opening of so many other “authentic” Japanese Ramen places these days, I am guilty of neglecting RamenPlay to get my ramen fix. However, after trying out the various dishes here, and learning that they even had a Shabu Shabu set, I definitely would return for their food and bring my friends over here to have an affordable, yet satisfying fix! Trust me, give RamenPlay a chance, and you’d be surprised with what they can offer you!
Available Outlets:
Resorts World Sentosa
NEX
112 Katong
Velocity @ Novena Square
JEM
Bedok Mall
Breadtalk IHQ
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