Award-winning Ramen Del Barrio to open full bar in North Austin

One of Austin's most beloved culinary hybrids, Ramen Del Barrio, is leveling up. The acclaimed eatery, known for its innovative fusion of Japanese and Mexican flavors, is set to open its first brick-and-mortar location at 2007 Kramer Ln., Suite 100, before year's end.

Chef and owner Christopher Krinsky, the mastermind behind Ramen Del Barrio, confirmed the move, saying, "Making this leap has always been a part of our plan, but very necessary as we are currently maxed out in our current space."

From food stall to full-service: Ramen del Barrio's big leap

The new, larger space will allow Ramen Del Barrio to fully transform into an Izakaya-ramen shop hybrid, a significant expansion from its current food stall format within Hana World Market (1700 W. Parmer Ln., Suite 100).

Fans can expect the return of their favorite ramen, tacos and seafood dishes, alongside exciting new offerings. A major enhancement will be a full bar featuring a curated selection of Japanese whiskey and Mexican mezcal, promising to elevate the dining experience. The restaurant also aims to transition to a seven-day lunch and dinner service.

Krinsky's culinary perspective stems from his diverse background. Born in the U.S., he spent his formative years (ages 4 to 18) living in Mexico, and later worked at three prominent Japanese restaurants in Austin, including Kemuri Tatsuya.

A taste of Ramen Del Barrio's flavors

The Statesman’s 2023 Best New Restaurants list lauded Ramen Del Barrio for its inventive approach. The carnitas ramen was highlighted as a signature dish, described by restaurant critic Matthew Odam as a "creamy, fatty pork broth packed with voluptuous noodles and a mass of braised pork shoulder, belly, stomach and skins and draped with grilled onions and jalapeño." Other standout ramen creations include a guajillo pepper-tinted version with hominy and tripe; a dipping ramen with Japanese fried chicken in mole broth, and a brothless bowl featuring chorizo and fermented chili yuzu kosho.

While ramen takes center stage, Ramen Del Barrio's tacos are equally deserving of attention. The yakitori-grilled and achiote-marinated octopus, crispy-edged al pastor pork belly with pineapple, and beef tongue tacos were all praised for their flavors and textures.

As Ramen del Barrio's website eloquently puts it, "Irasshaimase y buen provecho" – Welcome and enjoy your meal. Austin eagerly awaits the grand opening of this new chapter for the local gem.