Calling all Japanese food lovers! We are celebrating the arrival of March with not 1 but 2 amazing debuts in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. The world’s first-ever IPPUDO | MAiSEN combined concept store recently celebrated its exciting launch in The Gardens Mall. If you’re a fan of authentic tonkotsu ramen and katsu, do drop by here.
Also making its Malaysian debut is Japanese dessert brand Warabimochi Kamakura. Following its current pop-up store in APW Bangsar, Kamakura will be making a “tour” with 2 additional stops – Mid Valley and Pavilion KL.
IPPUO | MAiSEN Opens At The Gardens Mall
Malaysia is set to make culinary history as the world’s first-ever IPPUDO | MAiSEN combined concept store celebrates its official launch at The Gardens Mall on 25th February 2025. This groundbreaking combined concept brings together two iconic Japanese brands, IPPUDO, renowned for its authentic tonkotsu ramen, and MAiSEN, the No.1 Tonkatsu Restaurant in Japan. Together, they offer a complete and unique dining experience that combines the synergy of both brands under one roof.
Best of Japanese Tonkatsu & Tonkotsu Ramen
The IPPUDO | MAiSEN concept is a celebration of Japan’s culinary excellence, blending the rich, flavourful tonkotsu ramen of IPPUDO with MAiSEN’s expertly crafted tonkatsu. Each dish is a testament to the brands’ dedication to quality and their commitment to preserving Japan’s revered food traditions. This innovative concept allows diners to indulge in the best of both worlds—savouring IPPUDO’s hearty, umami-packed ramen and MAiSEN’s crispy, tender pork cutlets in a single dining experience.
A Curated Culinary Experience
At IPPUDO | MAiSEN, guests can look forward to a carefully curated menu that highlights the best of both brands:
Shiromaru Special
IPPUDO’s original Tonkotsu broth is served with ultra-thin noodles, salted soft-boiled eggs and pork belly, bean sprouts, kikurage, spring onions, and seaweed. A Classic Hakata-style Ramen.
IPPUDO Kuro Special
Thick, chewy noodles served with salted soft-boiled eggs, BBQ pork belly, flavoured black fungus, spring onions, seaweed, bean sprouts, spicy blended miso paste and fragrant garlic oil with black pepper. Smoky and full of aroma.
Nankotsu Tantanmen
A renowned Hakata delicacy featuring tender pork soft bone in a rich tonkotsu broth infused with chicken and blended with minced pork miso. Savor springy noodles with hints of chili flakes and fragrant chili oil, topped with silky Hanjuku Tamago. A masterful blend of heat, texture, and umami.
Jumbo Tenderloin Katsu Set
MAiSEN’s premium tenderloin katsu, fried to golden perfection with signature panko breadcrumbs. Served with fragrant rice, fresh cabbage, pickles, fruits, and miso soup. Pairs well with MAiSEN’s signature sauces for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Trio Mix Set (Pork, Prawn, Chicken)
A delightful combination of MAiSEN’s tenderloin kushikatsu, prawn katsu, and chicken katsu. Served with fragrant rice, fresh cabbage, pickles, fruits, and miso soup.
Katsumabushi Tenderloin Set
The exquisite combination of bite-sized tenderloin katsu served over rice, accompanied by rich dashi broth, onsen tamago, and an assortment of delectable side condiments.
**From 26th February to 31st March 2025, enjoy 1 FREE Soft Serve when you order any Jumbo Loin or Tenderloin Katsu Set and follow MAiSEN’s Facebook or Instagram page!
Be the First to Experience IPPUDO | MAiSEN
Don’t miss the chance to be part of this culinary milestone. Visit IPPUDO | MAiSEN at The Gardens Mall now and experience the best of Japanese tonkatsu and tonkotsu ramen under one roof.
Kamakura’s Signature Warabimochi Makes Malaysian Debut In KL
Kamakura’s beloved Warabimochi has arrived in Malaysia, bringing an authentic taste of Japan. Kamakura recently made its highly anticipated Malaysian debut with an exclusive pop-up store at APW Bangsar, offering visitors a sensorial experience into the world of authentic Warabimochi. This limited-time showcase allowed guests to savor freshly made Warabimochi, explore its rich history, and witness the meticulous craftsmanship behind each delicate piece.
Adding to the pre-launch excitement, Kamakura engaged in a unique guerilla stunt. This captivating visual spectacle piqued the curiosity of onlookers and sparked excitement across social media, creating anticipation for the official arrival of Warabimochi Kamakura.
Warabimochi Kamakura is a tribute to centuries-old artistry, meticulously prepared using a secret blend of premium Japanese ‘warabi powder. ’ Unlike its firmer versions, Kamakura’s signature Warabimochi features a uniquely chewy yet melt-in-your-mouth texture, achieved through the skilled kneading techniques of expert artisans.
It is also known for its translucent, jelly-like confection generously dusted with high-quality, deeply roasted kinako (soybean flour) and drizzled with Kamakura’s homemade ‘kuromitsu’, made exclusively with Okinawan black sugar. The result: a harmonious balance of delicate sweetness and rich, nutty aromas.
Its stellar success in Singapore, Hong Kong, China, and Australia, where it quickly captivated a loyal following with its commitment to quality and authenticity, speaks to the universal appeal of its delicate, melt-in-your-mouth Warabimochi. Now, Malaysians can discover what has made Warabimochi Kamakura a favorite among discerning food lovers worldwide, inviting them to indulge in a true taste of Japan.
Kamakura is set to officially open its doors at Mid Valley Megamall on 14 March 2025, followed by Pavilion Kuala Lumpur on 29 March 2025 bringing a refined and tranquil space where customers can enjoy the full range of its signature Warabimochi creations, including seasonal specials and exclusive offerings. Bookmark the dates:
- APW Bangsar: 28th February – 6th March 2025
- Mid Valley Megamall, Kuala Lumpur: 15th March – 21st March 2025
- Pavilion Kuala Lumpur: 5th April – 11th April 2025
The menu includes:
- Warabimochi (2 pieces): RM14
- Warabimochi (5 pieces): RM26
- Warabimochi (10 pieces): RM43
- Warabimochi Souvenir (Wooden Box): RM58
- Warabimochi Drinks:
- Tenku no Hojicha: RM20
- Strawberry Milk: RM22
- Asakawa-en Matcha: RM20
- Other drinks:
- Matcha Latte: RM15
- Hojicha Latte: RM15