Planning an unforgettable weekend? Here’s an option. Imagine slurping on some rich ramen broth while in the midst of great company, falling in love with food, conversations and the contagious laughter.
Well, if you’re in Goa this Saturday, this can be exactly how your weekend can turn out, all you need to do is turn up at the ultimate Ramen Shop taking place at Larder and Folk, a culinary extravaganza curated by Insia Lacewalla, the founder of India With Insia, in collaboration with Chefs Shraddha Bhonsle and Lakham Bhonsle who come all the way from neighbouring Sawantwadi.
“This will be the first time Lakham and I will be coming to Goa and also the first time we will be doing a Ramen Pop-up. We are very excited and also a tad bit anxious,” says Shraddha, speaking about the upcoming event.
After converting their Palace in Sawantwadi, Maharashtra (a 40-minute drive from Mopa airport), into a Boutique Art Hotel, the two chefs were fortunate to find a loyal customer base from Goa, who requested for a pop-up in the State. With Insia on board, they decided to do a one-day experience at Larder and Folk to give Goa a taste of their ramen.
“Priyanka Sardesai, the co-founder of Larder and Folk shares the same alma mater as us. Her kitchen etiquette and passion are something we completely relate to and admire,” shares Shraddha adding that a Google Meet call later (between Priyanka, Insia, Lakham and herself) the event came to be.
Speaking about her fondness for ramen, she describes it as her first love. Introduced to it in culinary school, she learnt ramen is ‘the food for the soul’.
“As a ramen chef, I have spent days perfecting my broth (vegetarian & non-vegetarian – equal love given to both might I add). I may have gone through dozens of trials and errors and finally achieved a ramen noodle texture and elasticity I desire,” she says, adding it’s been a labour of love and patience.
Inspired by her travels through Japan and the understanding of the multitude of layers and flavours a ramen bowl contains, she has now decided to bring that all to Goa, along with her husband Lakham, a baker and pastry chef who specialises in plated desserts.
“The pop-up menu is curated by Lakham and myself in three courses. We start off with a gyoza of choice, all three cooked in different methods and with different fillings. That’s followed by a ramen of one’s choice,” Shraddha explains.
For those who like lighter broths, the chef recommends the Shoyu or the Kimchi Ramen, while for those who prefer creamy broths their classic Tonkotsu Ramen should be the pick.
“Apart from my special the Pwr Ramen (it’s like a hug in a bowl), we also have a beautiful vegan ramen on the menu called the Miso Mushroom Ramen. I promise you won’t miss the meat,” she assures.
The last course for the evening will include Lakham’s plated desserts that include Citrus and Berries and ice-cream sandwiches.
“We aim to serve an evening of delicious food and good vibrations and look forward to meeting the lovely people who come out to support us,” she says, extending an invite to all.
DETAILS
WHAT: Ramen Shop
WHERE: Larder and Folk, São Tomé, Panjim, North Goa
WHEN: October, 26, 2024
TIMINGS: 2 slots 7pm (now sold out) and 9pm
Book your slot, tickets available on @urbanaut_