Tonkotsu Ramen by Mad Ronin Ramen Diner: A steaming slurpy classic

Nestled in the bustling area of Petitenget, Seminyak, lies the flagship venue of Mad Ronin, a Ramen Diner which was established in late 2016.

Any Japanese cusine lover would know that ramen is a timeless dish that comes in many forms and has several different methods of preparation but it goes without saying that Tonkotsu Ramen is the King of Japanese Ramen, which is the centrepiece and pride of Mad Ronin Ramen Diner.

Both venues in Seminyak and Canggu (which opened in March 2021) are headed by the group’s culinary director, Chef Yudhi Susanto who plays a huge part in designing the menu and bringing to life this popular style of cooking ramen which implements local Indonesian produce whilst retaining traditional Japanese flavours.

“I learnt most of our specific ramen preparation techniques from my time I spent in Japan when the group (Midnight Brigade) first ventured out there in early 2017 to draw inspiration, understand more about the different ramen styles and most importantly how to cook the perfect bowl of Tonkotsu Ramen.” -Chef Yudhi.

As the saying goes, the secret sauce lies in the broth. Their signature milky Tonkotsu and Tori broth is a daily labour of love as it takes a minimum of 12 hours to simmer and boil over high heat. Hakata style ramen noodles are then placed into this rich broth, which is the heart and soul of all their other ramen variations.

Both broth and noodle are then paired with succulent slices of either Tonkotsu (Pork) or Tori (Chicken) and topped with Karashi Takana (Spicy Pickled Mustard Green) for that extra zing.

Their mandatory ramen toppings also include Negi (Green Onion) Kikurage (Wood Ear Mushrooms), Kamaboko or Narutomaki (Japanese Fish Cake) and Ajitama (Soy Seasoned Boiled Egg). A sprinkle of Nori (Dried Seaweed) is included solely for the Tori Truffle Paitan. A total treat for the senses!

Besides the classic Tonkotsu Ramen, their best-sellers include the Tori or Tonkotsu Black Garlic Ramen and for spice enthusiasts, the Tori Hell Bowl which comes in 2 different levels. All regular ramen bowls are priced at IDR 65 K++ and special ramen bowls are priced at IDR 90 K ++.

For those looking for a rice alternative, Donburi bowls are available too, along with a couple of common favourite Japanese side dishes to go along with your meal like the (Grilled Gyoza or Chicken Karaage).

Every element of Mad Ronin Ramen Diner is meticulously thought out. From its disctintive logo of 5 bowls shaped into a flower, which is a creative play on the traditional Japanese Kamon, to it’s vibrant decor and colourfully detailed wall art within both venues.

Leave all formalities at the door as you enter this spunky Japanese noodle joint. The whole Mad Ronin experience exudes fun and casualness sans the pretense while being able to enjoy quality ramen at a reasonable price. Perfect for a day out with friends, family or even for date night.

Their iconic tagline “Ramen first, your bullshit second” is as bold as their striking neon pink and black sign which is easily spotted outside both their venues. Do keep a look out for it the next time you are in the area and be sure to have a go on their arcade machine or take a cute snap in the photo booth available in the Mad Ronin Petitneget outlet while waiting for your steamy hot bowl of ramen to cook.