For all of those with a bad case of the Mondays—myself included—things just got a little bit better. After months of anticipation, today marks the official opening of Ani Ramen in Jersey City. Their first location, if you’re not already familiar, is a popular Montclair hotspot booming with packed tables and lines that are sometimes even out the door. All that means to us is that this noodle house must be doing something right and for Hudson County locals, the wait is finally over.
The menu features similar big bowls and little big bites known to the Montclair location, including favorites such as kimchi pork buns, chili charred edamame, chicken wings two ways and of course, ramen ranging from miso to short rib. Where Jersey City starts to set itself apart, however, is with their beverage program. Created with the help of award-winning mixologist Kenta Goto, the restaurant has a full bar and offers cocktails such as a sake and gin martini and a shiso cucumber sour. There’s also an array of Japanese whiskeys and bottled or canned beer for diners to choose from.
The interior was designed by Pixel Experience and showcases artwork from Rich Tu, a New Jersey-native artist who worked on the Montclair restaurant’s mural as well. There will also be an outdoor back patio available for seating.
To get a table, Ani Ramen simply works on a first-come, first-served basis and does not accept reservations. Ani Ramen Jersey City is located at 218 Newark Avenue and for more information, please visit their website.
