Founded in Hakata, this international operation believes ‘ramen is a cosmos created in a bowl’: clearly these guys are serious about noodles. This second, 65-cover UK branch (London’s first Ippudo opened in St Giles in 2014) is part of the Crossrail Place development and features an open kitchen, a cocktail bar and, as is Ippudo tradition, enthusiastic Japanese greetings from all the staff, every time a customer enters. The menu includes tori kara-age (Japanese-style fried chicken), and fluffy Hirata Buns, but don’t miss the signature ramen noodle bowls (vegetarian options available!), with optional toppings including melt-in-your-mouth pork belly and marinated eggs. New dishes for Canary Wharf include tako-yaki (deep-fried octopus balls), and gluten-free vegetarian tempura rice bowl. Take a seat at the bar for cocktails or a range of sakés, squint a bit, and you could almost be in Hakata bay.