Intro

After a particular harsh Winter in Berlin, something of a recurring theme on this blog I was ready for something warming. Ramen seemed like a good choice, but not just any ramen, this would be a 'ramen event' at Le Duc.

Some background

Ramen has a rather mixed reputation in Europe. Many still think it a source of cheap calories in our student days¹.

But that's not to say it can't form the basis of a fine dining experience. And this is very much what Le Duc is aiming for.

But what is Le Duc? Well I suppose you might call it something of an 'event space'.

Le Duc had been on my radar for some time. The ramen events tend to sell out quickly. Part of that is likely due to its connection to the well regarded Ngo culinary group(f.n. see my review of Funky Fish, another one of their establishments). Another reason may be pricing: Le Duc typically offers an omakase menu costing north of €300 per sitting. The ramen evenings provide a comparatively accessible way to sample their approach.

The main event

As for the event itself, the setting is rather unconventional. The venue was essentially an apartment, albeit comfortable restored for the guests and practically arranged for the staff. The 'appartment' consists of a reception room, a dining room and kitchen. All are open at all times, although I'd probably not interfere with the chefs while they're working...

The food was quite excellent. A small sashimi appetiser. And then the main event: the ramen, deeply flavoured broth without excess heaviness, noodles with real bite, tender pork that felt carefully considered rather than generous for effect. The meal concluded with a restrained but satisfying ice cream.

Nothing mind bending, but I find well executed classic cuisine nearly always beats out advanced molecular gastronomy.

Drinks

It was not an especially heavy night. I had a pleasant Reisling to start, but the highlight was a German brewed sake from Reigen Fermentation. Sharp, almost ammonia-like at first, softening into a sour sweet finish reminiscent of confectionery. Unusual, but effective alongside the ramen.

I would happily try another bottle, though I do wish they used screw tops rather than caps. I am not finishing an entire bottle of sake in one sitting.

Final thoughts

All in all a good night. I did find myself wishing the event could go on a bit longer, the organisers quite strictly enforced the schedule, something to bear in mind if you decide to go to one of these sake events.

Overall though, I enjoyed this event. Certainly Le Duc has not reinvented ramen, but if you want to try something beyond supermarket ramen, it's worth a look.

Good for date nights, but you might want to call into somewhere after for a cocktail...

Discuss

My review of the 'ramen event' in Le Duc Berlin https://t.co/StdimJ9WNU
— Sam McDonald (@wsmcd) February 15, 2026

Footnotes

A very comprehensive review of supermarket ramen: ↩

image source licenced by CC BY 4.0