No one would blame potential patrons from walking right past pastaRAMEN in Montclair. That’s because there is no sign in front of the restaurant. Instead, there is simply a light-projected version of their round logo with crossed chopsticks on an outlined plate. But those that venture inside can expect a uniquely flavorful fusion restaurant.
The 1,800-square foot pastaRAMEN is the first Italian ramen shop. It’s touted as blending ingredients, techniques, and textures from Japanese and Italian cuisines, aka ‘Wafu-Italian’. (WaFu means ‘in the Japanese style’.) “Honestly it’s a real cuisine of its own,” says Robbie Felice, cofounder and chef-partner. “In Japan it’s common, and America just hasn’t caught on to it yet. It works so well and being that it is so unknown I think that makes it even more exciting!”
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A Fusion of Cultures and Flavors
pastaRAMEN is no stranger to having an air of mystery. In fact, the idea started as secret, invite-only omakase pop-ups in NJ and throughout the country in 2020. Chef Robbie then returned to Montclair to open a brick-and-mortar location, which seats 65 diners.
According to Chef Robbie, their list of popular menu items have all been hits since day one. In particular, patrons love the calamari fritti, shrimp scampi, carbonara, and pork chop. “My favorite usually tends to be something new that we just put on the menu,” Chef Robbie explains. “Currently, I’m really obsessed with our new octopus yakitori and the raw garlic tuna with white truffles, soy, and balsamic.”
About The Owners
Chef Robbie is a James Beard Rising Star Chef semifinalist. In addition to pastaRAMEN, he’s behind Osteria Crescendo in Westwood and Viaggio Ristorante in Wayne. After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, he worked at Babbo in NYC and B&B Ristorante in Las Vegas. His experience also includes working at Michelin-starred spots around the world.
His next venture is Fatto Con Amore, an Italian sandwich shop coming soon to Montclair. Likewise, he intends to open additional pastaRAMEN outposts in the near future.
pastaRAMEN is also run by the Montclair Hospitality Group. Formed in 2021, the group uses Montclair as a launch pad for all of their concepts. They currently operate pastaRAMEN, Ani Ramen, MM by Morimoto and Fatto Con Amore. Montclair Hospitality Group was founded by Luck Sarabhayavanija and CEO Joey Simons; who explain that “The business is going into multiple markets and the restaurant is ever evolving with a new concept coming next door to pastaRAMEN in early 2024.”
Visit pastaRAMEN at 6 South Fullerton Ave in Montclair. (See them on Google Maps.) To learn more:
| Visit their Website | Make a Reservation Online | Follow on Instagram | Call 201-337-6956|
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pastaRAMEN FAQs
Yes, they accept reservations.
Yes, they have gluten-free options.
pastaRAMEN offers vegetarian options yes.
They do not offer takeout, no.
No, they do not offer delivery services.
No, they do not serve alcohol.
They do not have a kids’ menu, no.
Top Photo: © Peter Bonacci
Other Photos (in Order):
Montclair Hospitality Group
Jeremy Elkashab
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