Popular UK-born Asian noodle chain serving Japanese ramen, curries, and Asian dishes in communal seating. Fast, fresh, and affordable with extensive vegetarian options.
Wagamama is a British-born Asian noodle restaurant chain with branches across the United Kingdom, including many in London, Edinburgh and other major cities. The first restaurant opened in Bloomsbury, London, in 1992 under restaurateur Alan Yau, and the format of long communal benches, open kitchens and bowls arriving as soon as each is ready became widely imitated. This entry covers the brand generally rather than one address, so details such as hours and menus vary slightly by branch.
The cooking is a pan-Asian mix with Japanese influence. Ramen and chicken katsu curry are the best-known dishes: the katsu is a breaded chicken cutlet with a mild curry sauce and rice, and has become one of the most recognisable dishes of the chain. Other staples include teppanyaki noodle dishes, donburi rice bowls, gyoza and bao-style sides. The menu has long been strong on vegetarian and vegan choices, with plant-based dishes marked clearly, which makes the restaurants a practical option for mixed groups. Typical main courses cost roughly £11 to £16, so the chain sits at the affordable end of eating out in the UK.
The dining rooms are bright, fast-paced and fairly loud, with shared benches and a casual, family-friendly mood. Dress is entirely informal. Drinks include soft drinks, juices, beer, wine and sake, and the chain is known for fresh juices and Asian-style tea. Service is quick, and the dishes are typically brought to the table in the order they are ready rather than as a staged course sequence.
Branches generally open daily from late morning until around 23:00, though individual hours vary. Reservations are limited; many locations operate walk-in only or accept bookings for particular times or larger groups, so it is worth checking the specific branch. Queues can form at central London and city-centre sites on Friday and Saturday evenings and at lunchtime on weekends. Wagamama is a convenient, predictable choice for visitors who want a reasonably priced meal near major sights, theatres or stations, and prices are in pounds sterling.
| Price | $ |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daily 11:00-23:00 |
| Reservations | Limited reservations |
| Address | Multiple UK locations |
Signature dishes
- Chicken katsu curry — $14
- Ramen — $13
Location
Multiple UK locations
51.5074, -0.1278 View on map
Highlights
- UK-born Asian noodle chain founded in Bloomsbury, London, in 1992
- Chicken katsu curry and ramen as signature dishes
- Communal benches and fast, bowl-by-bowl service
- Extensive vegetarian and vegan options
Tips for visiting
- Check the chosen branch for booking policy; many are walk-in with limited reservations.
- Avoid peak Friday and Saturday evening times in central London to cut queue time.
- Mains typically cost about £11 to £16, making it a good-value stop near major sights.
- Plant-based dishes are labelled on the menu, helpful for mixed dietary groups.
- Expect dishes to arrive as ready rather than together; share the table accordingly.
When to visit
Weekday lunch and mid-afternoon are quietest; Friday and Saturday evenings are the busiest.
Accessibility
Accessibility varies by branch, but most modern city-centre restaurants offer step-free entry and accessible toilets. Check the specific location before visiting.
Frequently asked questions
Does Wagamama take reservations?
Policy varies by branch. Many locations are walk-in only, while some accept bookings for certain times or larger groups.
Is it suitable for vegetarians and vegans?
Yes. The menu includes a wide range of vegetarian and vegan dishes that are clearly marked.
What is Wagamama known for?
Chicken katsu curry and ramen are the best-known dishes, served in a fast, communal-table setting.
How much does a meal cost?
Main courses typically cost about £11 to £16, so the chain is at the affordable end of UK dining.