Anticipation has been building for the latest culinary addition to the West Valley—as the much-awaited Mensho ramen restaurant was all set to sling its first noodles this October at Westgate in Glendale. However, fans will have to wait just a bit longer to warm up with a bowl of their famed Wagyu Ramen. The grand opening originally scheduled for October 11 has been delayed, and Glendale's Office of Economic Development indicates that the new noodle joint will now start to serve its famed dishes come this November. "Glendale is honored to be home to the first Mensho in the West Valley," Mayor Jerry P. Weiers stated in a news release sent to ABC15.
The Tokyo-based restaurant, which came to the U.S. in 2016, is known for its Matcha Ramen and Toripaitan Ramen. Its new Glendale location is the third in the Valley, after Phoenix and Mesa, and is expected to be a local favorite. For now, Mensho will be open from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Tuesday to Thursday and Sunday, and until 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. They plan to expand their hours after the first 30 days.
Mensho, which opened its first location back in Tokyo in 2005, comes from the mind of chef Tomoharu Shono, who has since orchestrated a ramen revolution with approximately 31 locations globally. Eight more are expected to join the Mensho family by 2026. This international chain emphasizes the use of local ingredients, alongside imports from Japan, to craft its house-made noodles and flavorful soups. With the anticipated opening, the Mayor's office and residents alike see this as a nod to Glendale's vibrant food scene. Mayor Weiers expressed pride at the new addition, telling KTAR News, "Their investment speaks volumes about Glendale’s reputation as a vibrant and growing destination for diverse and exciting restaurants."
As for those unable to patiently await the grand opening in Glendale, Mensho’s other Valley locations remain open and ready to ease those ramen cravings. Diners can visit the restaurant at the Uptown Phoenix location, 5813 N 7th St #140, or the Mesa location at 805 N Dobson Rd #115. Each branch promises the same commitment to quality and culinary exploration that has placed Mensho on the map for ramen enthusiasts across the globe. Until the new location opens its doors, these existing storefronts offer a chance for the uninitiated to discover what makes a bowl of Mensho ramen not just a meal, but an experience.
