Izumi, Bandra The Authentic Ramen hotspot for Mumbai Foodies 🍜✨
History / Background
Izumi was founded by Chef Nooresha Kably and quickly became a highly sought-after destination for authentic Japanese cuisine in Mumbai. While many restaurants offer sushi, Izumi set out to master the more complex, labor-intensive dishes, most notably, ramen. It is credited by many in the city with raising the bar for what specialty Japanese food should taste like, moving beyond fusion and focusing on traditional techniques and high-quality, often imported, ingredients.
Ambience & Aesthetic Experience
Izumi offers a warm, intimate, and traditional Japanese bistro ambiance. The space is cozy, featuring wooden tones, clean lines, and a minimalist aesthetic that transports diners away from the bustling streets of Bandra.
Decor Elements: You’ll find a beautiful live sushi bar that acts as the centerpiece, allowing patrons to watch the chefs at work.
Vibe: The mood is sophisticated but relaxed. It’s a popular spot, meaning the vibe is often energetic and buzzing.
Seating: Seating is limited, making it feel exclusive, but this also contributes to the need for advance reservations.
Menu & Specialties
Izumi’s menu is focused, prioritizing quality and authenticity over vast quantity.
Variety: The categories include Sushi/Sashimi, Gyoza, small plates, and their famous Ramen.
Bestseller: The undisputed bestseller is the Pork Tonkotsu.
Dietary Options: They cater well to both non-vegetarians and vegetarians with strong vegetable broth options.
Known For: In-house noodle making and slow-simmered, complex bone broths for ramen.
Must-Try Recommendations
Pork Tonkotsu Ramen (₹700–₹1000 approx): Rich, milky broth simmered for hours, served with tender chashu and handcrafted noodles.
Mushroom Truffle Oil Gyoza: Crispy potstickers with aromatic truffle.
Chicken Paitan Ramen (₹700–₹900 approx): A deep, flavorful chicken broth alternative.
Sushi Platter: The best way to enjoy the live sushi counter experience.
Menu
Sushi/Rolls
- Avocado Roll — ₹600
- Charred Avocado & Crispy Carrot Roll — ₹630
- Crispy Corn & Grilled Red Pepper Roll — ₹630
- Crispy Edamame Avocado Roll — ₹660
- Philly Avocado Cucumber Roll — ₹600
- Shimeji & Asparagus Roll — ₹690
- Soy Paper (Add-on) — ₹100
- Spicy Philly Avocado Cucumber Roll — ₹600
- Spicy Sweet Potato Roll — ₹600
- Spicy Tofu Roll — ₹600
- Tempura Veg Sushi Roll — ₹600
- Veg California Roll — ₹600
- Veg Futomaki (6 pcs) — ₹600
- Veg Sugoi Maki — ₹630
Ramen —
• Chicken Paitan – ₹900
• Curry Ramen – ₹820
• Pork Tonkotsu Ramen – ₹950
• Shoyu Chintan Ramen (Online) – ₹850
• Spicy Miso Ramen (Veg) – ₹820
• Tokyo Chicken Chintan Ramen – ₹950
Other
• Pork Kakuni — ₹780
• Spicy Chicken Chirashi — ₹660
• Spicy Miso & Sesame Snapper Rice — ₹780
• Spicy Prawn Chirashi — ₹780
• Teriyaki Chicken Chirashi — ₹660
• Veg Katsu Curry — ₹620
• Spicy Veg Chirashi — ₹620
• Butter Miso Chicken Chirashi — ₹660
• Butter Miso Veg Chirashi — ₹620
• Extra Curry (Non-Veg – Chicken) — ₹150
• Extra Curry (Veg) — ₹150
• Katsu Chicken with Curry — ₹660
• Pepper Garlic Chicken Chirashi — ₹660
• Pepper Garlic Veg Chirashi — ₹620
• Chicken Garlic Fried Rice — ₹550
• Egg Garlic Fried Rice — ₹500
• Prawn Garlic Fried Rice — ₹580
• Veg Garlic Fried Rice — ₹500
Budget & Price Range
- Cost for Two: ₹2000–₹3000 for a meal with ramen and appetizers.
- Suitability: Ideal for mid-range to premium dining focused on quality over quantity.
- Portions are generous and satisfying.
Review Summary
Izumi often maintains a rating around 4.6 stars.
Loved Most: Authentic ramen, fresh sushi, warm service.
Room to Improve: Space constraints and long waits without reservation.
Best Time to Visit
Peak: Dinner from 7:30 PM onward.
Best Strategy: Reserve a table for 7 PM or visit for weekday lunch for a calmer ambiance.
Evenings: Vibrant and lively.
Lunch: Softer, calmer experience.
Who Should Visit
Izumi is perfect for:
- Ramen Lovers: Those seeking an authentic, traditional ramen experience in Mumbai.
- Couples/Intimate Dates: The cozy, well-designed ambiance is ideal for a date night (with a reservation).
- Small Groups of Friends (3-4): Great for a special meal, but large groups will struggle with the space.
Final Verdict
Izumi is Mumbai’s ramen champion. The depth of flavor in every bowl makes planning ahead absolutely worth it. A must-visit for anyone seeking true Japanese craft in the heart of Bandra.
📍 Location Details
If you’re exploring amazing places to visit in Mumbai — cafés, bookstores, restaurants, beaches, rooftops, hidden gems, and more — bookmark our guide here. Experiences across Mumbai and around India are added regularly. 💛✨
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