Shōyu is a standout success in contemporary dining. Founded by Artjoms Ļašenko, the authentic ramen restaurant achieved international recognition within just two years of opening and is now the only ramen restaurant in Europe to have received the Michelin Bib Gourmand award three times. Not too bad for a humble noodle.

What began as a passion project has become one of Riga’s most sought-after dining destinations, attracting both locals and international visitors with its unwavering commitment to authentic Japanese ramen.

Shōyu: Riga’s bowls of brothy delight

At the core of Shōyu’s philosophy is craftsmanship. In the open kitchen, nearly everything is prepared by hand. The noodles are made fresh every day using a carefully developed blend of flours, including high-quality Japanese varieties, ensuring the right texture and bite. The team also works closely with local farmers to source chicken, duck and other meats, allowing Shōyu to produce up to 300 bowls of ramen daily without compromising on quality. For Ļašenko, excellence comes before profit. “The noodles are key,” he explains. “I’m happy to earn less as long as they’re exceptional.”

Shōyu: Riga’s bowls of brothy delight

Shōyu: Riga’s bowls of brothy delight

The menu centres on traditional Japanese ramen, built on deep, layered broths that require hours of preparation. These are complemented by classic starters such as gyoza and tempura, along with cocktails and desserts that round off the experience. While ramen in Japan is typically eaten immediately, Shōyu has subtly adapted its recipes, so the noodles maintain their texture for longer, accommodating Western dining habits while staying true to Japanese technique.

Shōyu: Riga’s bowls of brothy delight

Shōyu’s rapid rise was helped by early recognition from leading food influencers, placing it among the top places to eat in Riga and the wider Baltic region. That momentum has only grown with Michelin’s attention, sparked in part by praise from respected food voices Anders Husa and Kaitlin Orr. Today, Shōyu stands among a small global group of around 50 ramen restaurants to hold the Bib Gourmand distinction.

Shōyu: Riga’s bowls of brothy delight

The restaurant’s interior reflects Japanese minimalism with natural influences. Mossy green tones, wave-like wooden details and soft, dim lighting create a warm, intimate atmosphere. Communal dining is encouraged, making Shōyu feel lively yet welcoming, while a lush outdoor terrace offers a relaxed setting during the warmer months.

Shōyu: Riga’s bowls of brothy delight

Looking ahead, Ļašenko remains focused on refinement over expansion. By inviting guest chefs from Japan and continuing to educate his team, his goal is simple: to keep improving and to ensure that every bowl of ramen lives up to Shōyu’s glowing reputation.

Shōyu: Riga’s bowls of brothy delight

Shōyu: Riga’s bowls of brothy delight

Web: www.www.shoyu.lv
Instagram: @shoyu.riga

Read the feature on issuu