Ramen have become one of Japan's most iconic dishes, loved not only by the Japanese but also by food enthusiasts worldwide. These bowls feature wheat noodles served in a rich, flavorful broth, often meat-based, and are typically accompanied by various ingredients like vegetables, seaweed, meat, and sometimes marinated eggs.
Their popularity in Japan is due to their variety, comforting taste, and accessibility. While ramen are less known in France compared to sushi, they are steadily gaining popularity, partly due to their affordable price and satisfying nature.
Since the summer of 2018, Japanese cuisine lovers in Rennes can explore ramen at Mandoo, a restaurant located in the heart of the city.
Nestled on a quiet street facing Place Charles de Gaulle, near the "Les 3 Soleils" shopping center, Mandoo is easy to spot thanks to a frequently placed sign at the street entrance. The restaurant offers both dine-in options in a bright, youthful atmosphere and takeout, depending on your preference.
What’s on the Menu at Mandoo?
Mandoo's specialty is, of course, ramen, but the menu also features a wide range of Japanese dishes, including gyoza, sushi, curry, and gyudon. Ramen lovers will find classic Japanese options here, with prices around €14.
- Shiyo Ramen: A salt-based broth with pork, bamboo shoots, bean sprouts, and ramen noodles.
- Shoyu Ramen: Similar to Shiyo Ramen, but with the addition of soy sauce for a more complex flavor.
- Miso Ramen: A miso paste-based broth, bringing a rich umami flavor, with pork, bamboo shoots, and bean sprouts.
- Chashu Ramen: A soy sauce-based broth, topped with generous slices of braised pork (chashu).
- Champon Ramen: A salty broth enriched with pork, squid, and a vegetable sauce.
- Yasai Ramen (Vegetarian): A vegetarian option with a salt-based broth and a mix of fresh vegetables.
- Kimuchi Ramen (Spicy): For those who love a kick, this ramen features a spicy broth with pork, cabbage, and vegetables.
For an extra treat, Mandoo offers a combo that adds gyoza (Japanese dumplings) for just an additional €3-4, enhancing your meal with even more flavors.
What to Expect at Mandoo in Rennes?
Mandoo ranks among the Japanese fast-food options in Rennes. The service is quick and efficient, and the portions are generous, making it an attractive choice for those on a budget looking to explore Japanese cuisine.
However, the quality of the dishes may disappoint purists of Japanese cuisine. The ramen broths are sometimes considered bland, likely adjusted for Western palates, and the ingredients used are of average quality. The other dishes, such as sushi and curry, are of a similar standard to the ramen.
As for the ambiance, the restaurant offers a pleasant, youthful setting, decorated with anime posters. The place is bright and enjoyable for a meal with friends or family, though it can be disrupted by delivery traffic during peak hours. For groups larger than four, it’s recommended to book in advance.
In summary, Mandoo is an excellent choice for those looking to try Japanese cuisine without breaking the bank. However, for those seeking a more authentic and refined culinary experience, it might be worth considering other Japanese restaurants in Rennes, which, while more expensive, offer higher-quality dishes.
