Maki and Ramen 409 Illawarra Road, Marrickville, New South Wales 2204

"Wed 01 March 2023. The first day of autumn and my first visit to the relocated Maki and Ramen, at their new cafe a little further along from their former location in Illawarra Road in Marrickville. The new locale provides great access from train and bus routes, and I imagine parking would be more available. The setting and building layout is very attractive, with the option for an open front, alfresco style in good weather, and a combination of long bench and individual tables for a choice of seating options. The kitchen layout with a servery through to the front counter is much more convenient than the previous stairs, and has a much more inclusive, open feel. Yuko and Patrick insisted on maintaining their anime theme; and the artwork and figurines, while a little more subtle in their presentation, provides a very tasteful and interesting setting. Speaking of tasteful, the menu includes the addition of Black Garlic Chicken Ramen. On Yuko’s recommendation I had to try this dish and I am so glad I did. The texture and flavour of the chicken was not what I imagined, and was so much more than my expectation. Yuko said it is marinated and cooked in the teriyaki style, and I’m not surprised it has become a popular dish. Clearly and exciting venture for Yuko and Patrick and there’s no doubt this will remain a regular destination for me. News Flash: Maki and Ramen is moving. My favourite Ramen destination is moving further along Illarwarra Road. Possible last day 5 Feb and opening again around 20 Feb in new premises. Yuko assures me they are maintaining the anime theme. Exciting. I'll keep you posted when and the address. Before the pandemic Maki and Ramen was a weekly destination for me, despite the considerable travel to get here. I'm very happy to be back and to be enjoying wonderful food and atmosphere. Also very pleased that Yuko is still here and just as friendly, and happy to guide me through the menu. The Black Garlic Ramen is a must try, and I have never had better anywhere. I can see this venue is going to be a regular visit again, and looking forward to another venture through the menu. My latest addition is Chashu Ramen. Slow-braised, melt in your mouth, tender pork belly in a miso broth. A magnificent, flavoursome meal."

"A nicely decorated anime themed restaurant, but the quality of the food was absurd. Our ramen noodles were not fresh & were instant 2 minute noodles. It was overpriced & I received poorly chopped cucumbers with a very very salty dipping sauce. The food almost feels like a joke. I would not be back."

"There's not much to say: It was my first time eating ramen and it tasted truly amazing! The personnel was really nice and there are many options to choose from. I don't know why there were barely any costumers. --> I would totally recommend it!"

"Note: This is an opinion. When we went there was only one lady on floor and she didn’t greet us which is understandable. My husband had curry and I had spicy ramen, the portion size was unacceptable for the price. The taste for me was ok not amazing. I like the decoration of the restaurant, I felt like I was in another world."

"I’ve been a regular customer here for almost 2 years. All the dishes look and taste really nice, reasonable prices. One of the best thing about this restaurant is the front of house waitress, her name is Yuko, she is extremely friendly n helpful. This restaurant is on my recommendation list!"