Chiikawa Ramen Buta is the first to launch in Hong Kong, combining the Japanese tradition of ramen with distinctively manga-flavored food and beverages, ambiance, and merchandise.

The Japanese ramen shop Chiikawa Ramen Buta has opened its first offshore restaurant at the Langham Place, Hong Kong, in a show of a combined blend of animation and culinary culture entwined in one clothing.

Designed after the Chiikawa manga "Ro" series set of ramen, the place combines a whimsical design featuring the text elements and images of cartoon characters with the traditional Japanese ramen. During the entrance you will meet life-size characters of Chiikawa, Hachiware, and Usagi welcoming diners, with a decor lined with artwork of the popular series.

The restaurant is a craft ramen restaurant that uses imported Japanese ingredients and broth. There are three size options at the shop with Chiikawa (small), Hachiware (small), and Usagi (large), so diners can select the portion they want, and each bowl comes with a themed fish cake along with a free sticker. The beverages are poured into collectible Chiikawa cups, and then there is the experience.

In addition to its food and drink products, the restaurant is also venturing into merchandise in the form of ramen bowls, t-shirts, glasses, towels, and others. Such incorporation of food and drinks into popular culture merchandising is signaling a trend in the Asian food and drink sector.

The launch indicates the changing food and beverage industry in Hong Kong, where consumption is being made more immersive in an effort to enhance customer engagements. Chiikawa Ramen Buta will unite both manga and ramen cultures and is likely to become a trendy place to visit among residents in the area.