Kitakata Ramen Ban Nai has been rumored to debut in San Diego since 2020 and it seems the plan is finally coming to fruition. According to a recent permit filing, the first local restaurant will join the Kearny Mesa neighborhood with a location planned on Othello Avenue.
Considered one of the “Big 3” ramen styles originating from Kitakata, Hakata, and Sapporo. Their story goes back to 1958 in Kitakata City, later opening more than 60 locations in Japan in the 80s.
In 2014, they expanded to the US with a location in Costa Mesa. They now have US stops in the suburbs of Chicago and throughout Orange County, CA. Currently our nearest locations are Fountain Valley, Costa Mesa, Buena Park, and Irvine.
What makes the chain distinct are their signature flavors and preparation methods. Each bowl of ramen reflects tradition with their flat, wide, hand-crumpled noodles, Toro-Chashu pork belly, and pork bone broth.
A representative for Kitakata Ramen confirms the Kearny Mesa location is projected to open in late-Summer 2022. Learn more about the long history of Kitakata Ramen Ban Nai at their Website.
