Beachside bowls

Authentic Japanese food is one of life’s greatest pleasures, particularly when it can be enjoyed without hopping on a plane and with a side of salty ocean breezes. Which makes anyone who has ventured down to Coolangatta to sample brand-new Harahetta Ramen recently, the richest of Gold Coasters.

It’s pho-real the newest hotspot for authentic Japanese cuisine. See what we did there?

Located in Coolangatta’s foodie precinct where Baskk and Bar Evelyn also reside, this new ramen joint is the miso happy place you’ve been looking for, and it’s already a hit with those of us who appreciate flavour-filled dishes created by people in the know.

So who are the culinary geniuses behind our new fave ramen joint, you ask?

Harahetta Ramen’s roots trace back to Goukai Ramen, the beloved Burleigh gem that established a devoted following thanks to its delicious broths and exceptional service. Owners Hiroshi and Sarah Takeyama who are Tweed locals, sold Goukai Ramen in February when they saw an opportunity to create their dream venue in Cooly.

Hiroshi trained to be a Ramen Chef in Tokyo and has created a signature broth for the ramen dishes that must be sampled to be believed.

The talented pair have brought the same attention to detail and signature touch to this new venue, building on the strong legacy that Goukai Ramen set to deliver a modern twist while maintaining the rich, satisfying flavours that put their name on the map.

Sarah’s dad, Peter Arnold, designed the fit-out and was project manager. Hiroshi and his friends built the space, which is low-lit and moody with exposed ceiling beams, a textured bar, and glossy black tiles that’ll transport you straight to the bustling streets of Japan.

Now let’s talk food. The menu begins with a choice of eight ramen dishes and please, allow us to indulge you for a minute.

The Original Ramen is made up of half a marinated egg, shallots, wood ear mushrooms, two slices of pork chashu and seaweed. Perfect.

Then there’s a Spicy Ramen, Black Garlic Ramen, Shio Ramen with a Yuzu flavour, Maze Soba (brothless) and, of course, both a veg and vegan option. Obviously, you can (and should) add extra toppings.

If you feel like something a little different, there are Rice Bowls with options like Teriyaki Mayo Karaage, Sweet Chilli Karaage, Nanban Japanese Tartar, and Ponzu Radish. You can also snack on burgers, Gyoza, and Karaage Chicken too. All of which is a true delight for the taste buds.

To drink, there is beer, wine, and spirits, but we highly recommend sampling the Lemon Chu Hi—a popular Japanese sip that is fresh and zingy and the perfect accompaniment to a bowl of ramen.

All of this plus a balmy beachside location. What more could you want? Make your next dinner out an authentic Japanese one at Harahetta Ramen.

Where: 3/ 52-58 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
When: Monday – Saturday 5pm -9pm, last orders at 8.30pm