A popular Worcester ramen restaurant that set up a crowdfunder to support the opening of a new branch in Birmingham has met its bold fundraising target. Work has begun on the new Maneki Ramen site on Ludgate Hill after the community raised £96,784 in just 31 days.
Now chef Pete Dovaston has revealed that work has begun transforming the Victorian red-brick venue to accommodate 145 diners in its two-storey restaurant. The plan is to offer canalside seating and a chef’s table to ‘bring the theatre of Japanese dining to life in a whole new way’.
A date for the opening has yet to be announced but in an update to followers, Maneki Ramen said that the plan was to launch mid-April.
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Back in November, Maneki Ramen launched its crowdfunding page, offering a number of exciting benefits to those who pledged cash. It included a £5,000 ‘Ultimate Maneki’ private party for up to 100 guests, which was taken up by six supporters.
Tasting menu meals, merchandise and cookbooks were among the other rewards offered for donations. Within a month, the restaurant exceeded its £95,000 target.
In an update to its community this week, Maneki Ramen wrote: “We’re thrilled to share that construction is officially underway this week! We’re starting work on the subfloor and ceiling levels, and everything is moving towards our planned mid-April opening.
“We’ll keep you updated on our progress and can’t wait to share the transformation with you. Thank you so much for your patience, enthusiasm, and incredible support.”