Mentatz

Mentatz is located on Lorne Street, in the city. The proprietor, Mr Kudo, had racked up considerable kitchen “chops”, through years of working in restaurants such as Karin (in Parnell) – and others – prior to opening this establishment.

Mentatz specializes in tonkotsu ramen, but also provides a range of other dishes, such as donburi, salads and seafood, on the bill of fare. It is no exaggeration to say that all Japanese congregating locally would’ve visited this watering hole more than once or twice; Mentatz has served up many bowls of ramen.

Those who fancy themselves “ramen masters” can – as with steak – order their noodles done to their own liking : medium, well-cooked, etc. Note: Chef Kudo advises budding ramen aficionados not to linger over their food; the noodles have a tendency to go soggy if left too long. Lest you think this merely a way of clearing space for fresh customers, Mentatz thoughtfully provides patrons with the very Japanese custom of kaedama: if you’ve brought appetite to spare with you, finish your first lot of noodles and – leaving the broth still in your bowl – utter the magic words, “Kaedama kudasai”, and you will be provided with another serving of noodles for the reasonable price of $1.50. Mentatz make their own noodles, so you will be doing them proud.