Ark, 2024-11-20

Big flavors and slurp culture

Tengu isn’t just the demon of Japanese mythology you find among your emojis (👺) – it’s also one of Stockholm’s best ramen spots. Located in the A house Ark building, the restaurant is run by Jonas Lindgren, formerly of Totemo Ramen, along with the team behind Babette, Schmaltz and Café Nizza. Come on in!

Hello! Tell us about the TenGus concept?
– You’ll find well-prepared, varied ramen and a variety of smaller Japanese dishes, as well as a wide range of drinks – from Japanese sake and beer to a carefully selected range of quality wines.

Describe your menu in three words?
– Flavorful, refined and umami filled.

What is the key to a really good frame?
– It’s the balance between the depth of the broth, the texture of the noodles and the freshness of the toppings. The base, of course, is a rich and complex broth that has been simmered for a long time.

Which of your small dishes are not to be missed?
– Tempura kakiage with tentsuyu dipping sauce, bonito sashimi and grilled soft shell prawns with yuzu kosho paste – the three must be tried.

-Tell us about your other establishments?
– Our previous restaurants are well known in Stockholm, and now we are working on two new establishments! Stockholm Stadshotell with 32 rooms and two restaurants in a newly renovated building at Björngårdsgatan 23. And Ponti, a restaurant with our interpretation of Italian food and a large aperitif bar, opening at Nytorget.

Which Japanese flavors should be given more attention?
– Yuzu, a citrus fruit that gives a fresh and slightly bitter taste, miso which is a must for a naturally fermented umami & sanscho, a pepper with a slight citrus and herbal character.

To slurp or not to slurp?
– Definitely slurping! It’s part of the ramen culture.

What music is played at Tengu?
– Usually a mix of Japanese jazz, funk and low-key electronic music, to create a relaxed yet energetic atmosphere.

Eating ramen on the first date – yay or nay?
– Absolutely, if you’re both foodies! It’s charming, and the slurping breaks the ice.

What do you think is best to drink with ramen?
– An ice-cold pilsner, a glass of semi-sweet Riesling or a yuzu gin and tonic. Anything will do.

Where outside of Sweden (and outside of Japan) can you eat really good ramen?
– If you’re in New York, you should go to Ivan Ramen, and in Amsterdam you should try Ramen-Ya!

Welcome to discover Tengu at Rådmansgatan 12.