Mona Vale residents now have a new spot for delicious ramen and evening snacks as Menya Monaka, a noodle house by day and izakaya by night, has opened its doors in the local area.
A New Addition to the Community
Menya Monaka is the latest venture from Fuminori “Bun” Fukuda. Along with his wife Eriko, he runs the popular Cafe Monaka in Mona Vale, which has been serving the community for over five years.
Seeing a need for more diverse dining options, particularly for ramen and later opening hours, the Fukudas decided to expand their contribution to the local food scene. They believe their new establishment will complement the existing businesses and provide locals with a place to enjoy a comforting meal and drinks into the evening.
Authentic Japanese Flavours
Tonkotsu Ramen – 伊山 style
Drawing on his upbringing in Japan and training in a friend’s ramen shop, Mr Fukuda aims to bring an authentic taste of Japanese noodles to Mona Vale. Menya Monaka specialises in Kanto-style ramen, a style from eastern Japan known for its medium-to-thick, house-made noodles. This differs from the Kyushu-style ramen more commonly found in Sydney.
Customers can look forward to various broths and toppings, including traditional tonkotsu and a vegan option called tan tan. The restaurant also offers classic ramen side dishes, with the gyoza particularly praised in early reports. A significant feature of Menya Monaka is its commitment to making fresh noodles daily in a dedicated noodle room at the back of the premises, using a noodle machine imported from Japan.
More Than Just Ramen
While ramen is the main focus during the day, Menya Monaka transitions into an izakaya and sake bar in the evenings. The aim is to introduce the Japanese custom of “shime-no-ramen” to Sydney, where people enjoy a bowl of ramen after drinks and snacks. The evening menu features a selection of cocktails, sake, and small plates such as miso eggplant and twisted ramen noodle pretzels.
Larger protein dishes like Wagyu sirloin are also available for those seeking something more substantial. This dual concept aims to cater to both those looking for a quick and tasty lunch or dinner and those wanting a place to unwind and socialise later in the evening, addressing what locals reportedly felt was a gap in Mona Vale’s late-night dining options.
Local Connection and Expectations
Having already established a strong connection with the Mona Vale community through Cafe Monaka, the Fukuda family hopes their new restaurant will be similarly embraced. Cafe Monaka has become a popular spot, attracting both locals and visitors from other parts of Sydney who appreciate its blend of Australian brunch favourites and traditional Japanese dishes.
Many see Menya Monaka’s opening as a positive addition to the area. It offers high-quality Japanese cuisine and a unique dining experience. The fact that it is a family-run business, much like Cafe Monaka, suggests a continued focus on personal service and quality food that the Mona Vale community has come to expect.
Published Date 15-May-2025