Qui Tran, the owner of Mai Lee and Nudo House, considers Shigetoshi “Jack” Nakamura as a close mentor and friend. Renowned as one of Japan’s four “Ramen Gods,” Nakamura will be hosting a special one-day pop-up at Nudo House’s Creve Coeur location (11423 Olive) tomorrow, October 20, from noon to 8 p.m.
The menu features a variety of ramen, vegetarian lo mein, several Nudo classics, an array of Japanese-inspired pickles, and a Japanese parfait for dessert.
October is a month rich with homecomings, and because Nakamura has visited St. Louis before, Tran named last year’s event the “Nudo Homecoming.” This year, for one day only, Nudo House will transform into “Naka House.” Here’s what you need to know before attending.
The Backstory
Nine years back, while preparing to launch Nudo House, Tran and his partner, Marie-Anne Velasco, recognized their ramen had potential but needed enhancement. “There are so many variations; we had to pinpoint what we liked and how to achieve it,” Tran shared with SLM at that time.
To elevate their ramen, they sought out chef Nakamura, one of Japan’s four Ramen Gods. After spending a week with him in St. Louis in 2016, Tran and Velasco refined their vision and mastered the nuances of ramen-making. “We owe much of our success to his mentorship,” Tran expresses.
Nudo House officially opened its flagship venue in Creve Coeur in 2017, followed by a second location in the Delmar Loop in 2021. “In 2019, when chef Nakamura launched his inaugural restaurant in the U.S.—Nakamura in New York City—Marie-Anne and I were privileged to assist him,” Tran reminisces.
Last year’s pop-up led to an annual tradition, with chef Nakamura making a return to St. Louis. “He was genuinely impressed by the food scene here, the ‘world-class’ culinary culture, the community’s vibe, and especially the pho,” Tran notes, “so we anticipate seeing him once a year, potentially more frequently. Upon arriving from Tokyo, his first request is always a bowl of pho and some ribs from Pappy’s.”
“St. Louisans have a unique opportunity to meet one of the world’s most celebrated ramen chefs and experience it firsthand,” Tran highlights.
The Menu
“We’ve consistently offered broth-based ramen,” Tran states, “but last year, we wanted something refreshing and out of the ordinary. I had been eager to introduce mazemen to our menu, but out of respect for chef [Nakamura], we waited for his introduction. His dishes were so well-received last year that only minor adjustments were needed this time.” Check out the complete menu below.
The Format
The Nudo House in Creve Coeur, usually closed on Sundays, will host this event with support from the Delmar location’s staff, which will close for the day. Tran observes that the parking lot in Creve Coeur is typically open on that day, allowing attendees to decide last minute without worrying about finding parking.
As with previous events, service will be dine-in only; however, guests can place to-go orders in person. Tran advises that peak lines occur at the opening, but they should move swiftly due to the simplified menu and refined concept. He also mentions there will likely be “party favors” for guests waiting in line, plus a special “nudo” photo opportunity.
October 19, 2024
10:15 AM
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