Chika is a Blade Runner-inspired underground late-night ramen bar experience that is opening in Rittenhouse Square.
Nestled in the heart of Philadelphia lies a subterranean culinary revelation: Chika Late Night Ramen. Glu Hospitality, in collaboration with Derek Gibbons and Tim Lu, has set out to transport guests into a culinary realm reminiscent of the iconic sci-fi movie Blade Runner. The name “Chika,” meaning basement in Japanese, epitomizes the underground allure of the establishment.
An impeccable fusion of food, drink, and design has been curated for this unique venture. Key personalities, including Chef Dean Leevongcharoen, Michael Ego, and BOXwood Architecture and Design Firm, play instrumental roles in delivering an experience tailored to the niche crowd that thrives on novelty and eclectic ambiance.
Drawing inspiration from late-night ramen bars in Tokyo and New York City, Chika promises an immersive experience right from its location at 1526 Sansom Street, beneath the bustling Rittenhouse Bagels and Co. Derek Gibbons recounts his nostalgia for late-night ramen bars in NYC, emphasizing a gap in Philadelphia’s late-night dining scene which Chika aims to fill.
The space boasts two levels spanning 2,000 square feet and can accommodate up to 48 guests. Whether you’re savoring the menu designed by Executive Chef Dean Leevongcharoen, a Penn State graduate with an impressive culinary background, or indulging in a drink crafted by Michael Ego, the essence of Chika remains consistent: an integration of classic Asian cuisine with innovative design and beverage offerings.
Guests can expect a range of dishes, from otsumami (small side dishes and appetizers) like Gyoza and Takoyaki to signature ramens such as the Tonkotsu Chashumen. Notably, Chika also caters to varied dietary preferences with vegan options like the Veggie Ramen and gluten-free dishes.
Beverage enthusiasts will be treated to a specially curated list by Michael Ego. From Japanese beers to theme-inspired cocktails that resonate with the Blade Runner ethos, every drink promises a unique narrative. Standouts include “Deckard”, a blend of Japanese Whisky and Cherry Shochu, and “Roy Batty”, a delightful concoction of White Rum, Strawberry Sake, and Yuzu.
True to its Blade Runner inspiration, the ambiance of Chika Late Night Ramen is an evocative blend of cyberpunk and Tokyo urban aesthetics. The collaboration between Glu Hospitality and BOXwood Architecture and Design Firm manifests in neon lighting, metals, graffiti, and more, reminiscent of the movie’s iconic style, much like tears in the rain.
Visit the official Chika website for the full menu and hours of operation.
Images: Cody Aldrich Photography
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