Maki & Ramen NQ

There’s a specific kind of comfort that only comes from a bowl of ramen that’s been brewing for best part of a day. At Maki & Ramen, tucked into The Landmark building on the fringes of the Northern Quarter, that’s exactly the draw. While the name might feel like a straightforward promise, the execution is far more nuanced than your average high-street operation.

Founded by Teddy Lee, who honed his craft in the prestigious sushi schools of Tokyo, the group made its name in Scotland before finally crossing the border to set up shop in Manchester. The space itself balances the sleek, modern aesthetic of High Street with the warmth of a traditional izakaya, making it just as suitable for a quick solo lunch as it is for a long-form communal dinner.

The Noodle Detail

The headline act here is the ramen. Unlike many spots that outsource their basics, Maki & Ramen’s noodles are made in-house, designed to hold just the right amount of tension against the broth. If you’re a purist, the Tonkotsu is the benchmark—a creamy, collagen-rich pork broth that’s been simmered for eight hours until it’s thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. For those leaning away from meat, their vegan Shoyu and Tan Tan options are equally deliberate, trading pork fat for deep, umami-heavy miso and sesame bases.

Beyond the Bowl

While the broth might get the glory, the “Maki” half of the equation deserves equal billing. The sushi menu is extensive but avoids the trap of being over-complicated. You’ll find the classics—exceptionally fresh Nigiri and Sashimi—alongside more adventurous rolls like the Black Dragon. It’s precision work, handled by chefs who understand that the rice is just as important as the fish it carries.

To round things out, expect a solid list of Japanese staples:

• Gyoza: Pan-fried to a crisp and served with a sharp dipping sauce.
• Karaage: Crispy Japanese fried chicken that manages to stay tender.
• Mochi: The essential sweet finish, available in various seasonal flavours.

What sets this place apart is the consistency. In a city that isn’t exactly short on Japanese options, Maki & Ramen wins by doing the fundamentals exceptionally well. Whether you’re there for a bowl of Black Garlic Tonkotsu after a shift or a platter of Salmon Tataki, it feels like a genuine slice of Japanese culture right in the middle of M4.