A Little Taste of Japan in Bensalem: Soho Ramen

Soho Ramen, the restaurant that teased us for a long time before opening. And opening a ramen shop in the middle of summer was a surprise as well. But they’ve been open for two years and after a few menu adjustments, they seem to have hit their stride. So let’s dig in!

From the moment you step inside, Soho Ramen impresses with its modern, clean aesthetic. Clean lines and plenty of wood give the space a contemporary yet welcoming feel. The restaurant’s layout is thoughtfully designed, ensuring that diners feel both comfortable and engaged with the atmosphere.

The service here is commendable and consistently noted for its warmth and efficiency. The waitstaff is attentive without being intrusive, and the kitchen operates with a precision that keeps dishes coming out promptly and almost always perfectly timed. It’s clear that the team at Soho Ramen takes pride in their work.

But it is, of course, the food that truly shines. Soho Ramen’s menu is a small cross-section of Japanese cuisine. The appetizers set the stage beautifully and really make Soho shine. The takoyaki is perfect, topped with Japanese Kewpie mayo, takoyaki sauce, and bonito flakes. They are a Japanese street food of ball-shaped dumplings filled with octopus made from wheat flour batter and cooked in a special pan and they seem to be a crowd favorite. Even if you don’t think you like octopus, try them. The cha-shu buns offer a delightful bite of tender, juicy pork enveloped in a soft, pillowy bun, though some diners might find themselves wishing for a touch more sauce.

The only appetizer I haven’t tried is the chicken wings, believe me when I say they are all out of this world.

The ramen selection is where Soho Ramen should excel and as good as all the choices are, they are just that, good. We have written about where the best ramen in Bensalem is before. But all that being said, the ramen here is a can’t-miss pick, no matter what flavors you might be craving.

The tonkatsu ramen, a staple, is rich and comforting, the pork tender and perfectly cooked, and the noodles have just the right amount of chew. You can choose what type of noodle you’d like for your ramen. For those seeking a bit of heat, the Spicy Miso Ramen delivers a satisfying kick, without overwhelming the palate. The tomato ramen with chicken and the beef ramen are great choices if you’re looking for something outside the “norm”.

My personal go-to is the “soho ramen” which checks all the right boxes for me.

Soho Ramen's "soho ramen" — Soho Ramen’s “soho ramen”

And if you’re not in the mood for ramen, they still have you covered with their Don Buri (rice bowls). You can choose between a beef bowl with marinated beef, caramelized onion, spring onion, and a sweet dashi, think a light sauce over rice. Or, a chicken or pork breaded cutlet, and a Japanese curry sauce over rice. The curry is very different from an Indian curry. This is slightly sweet with an almost fruity undertone. Either choice is a smart one. All are delicious.

The only criticism I have is the same as I have for a lot of Japanese restaurants, they Americanize the menu too much. They either curb the flavors or hold back on the sauces. Even going so far as to change the presentation you’d normally find for certain dishes. Take the curry rice bowl for example. While a delicious meal, the normal presentation for that dish would be absolutely covered in curry. Where every bite delivers on the curry flavor.

Customers frequently laud the restaurant’s ability to maintain high standards consistently. Reviews across various platforms echo that satisfaction, with many diners planning return visits to explore more of the menu. The positive feedback is a testament to Soho Ramen’s commitment to quality offerings.

Bensalem’s culinary options can often lean towards the predictable, Soho Ramen brings a refreshing and authentic Japanese dining experience. It’s a place where modern aesthetics meet traditional flavors, creating a dining experience that is both comforting and mouthwatering.

For those in Bensalem, or even passing through, a visit to Soho Ramen is not just recommended—it’s essential.