It’s been quite some time since I wrote a blog about a dining experience, the most attention it gets these days is on my social media and on a “top” list- cause that’s just much easier then putting my thoughts & feelings on paper. I’ve been in a creative funk and writing anything these days has been a challenge.

But I have to write about this culinary experience. Yes, a dinner event revived my need to write and share my inner thoughts with you. It was that good.

Pasta Ramen is a pop up dining experience with a secret James Beard nominated chef. It is the Mecca of food experiences and I can say with confidence that if I were on death row Pasta Ramen would absolutely be my last meal and I’ve eaten some really good meals in my lifetime.

“pastaRAMEN is an invite only omakase highlighting Wafu Italian cuisine. Wafu pasta originated in the 1950s at a Tokyo restaurant called Kabenoana, meaning “hole in the wall.” We will be at this location for only a few weeks, before popping up at a new and equally secret location”

I went to their first secret location, somewhere in Montclair a few months ago and I remember the whole evening being a whirlwind. It was like my first wedding, it came and went and now Im divorced and ready to really be present and experience every moment. *cough cough – or every bite.

Low and behold, their new “secret” location is in my backyard. In my turf in Jersey City. So to get invited you need to know someone that was already invited. They send you a secret link where you can reserve your table. The pop-up is only on Wednesday’s and Thursdays and you have the option of a 6pm or 8pm seating and you just never know when they are going to move locations- rumor has it the next one will be in Manhattan.

The day of, you get a text message with instructions on where to go and how to check in. The secrecy of this whole evening is a legit turn on.

We arrived to the location and checked in with the concierge as instructed and we were escorted to the 68th floor. I am trying really hard to keep the location a secret but if you live in JC you will recognize this building, I don’t need to spell it out. Trust me when I tell you “not knowing” is part of the fun.

The host put us in a waiting room which was a studio apartment overlooking the skyline and gave us glasses of champagne.

Now this is my kind of party.

When the rest of the guests arrive the host gave us a little intro and story on Pasta Ramen and the 3 rules.

THE 3 RULES OF PASTA RAMEN

#1 Do not share the location.

#2 Do not share the chef or partners’ names. 

#3 Invite your friends.

and I am adding another one- What happens at Pasta Ramen stays at Pasta Ramen

He then brought us to another apartment where we would eat. We sat down and the night began. The “secret” chef introduced himself, I know the guy and he is a culinary genius and he is absolutely going places. Not only is he so good at what he days, he is really charismatic and just adds to the whole experience. His story telling in between servings makes this whole experience incredibly special.

So how much is this whole thing? I know this is the first question that comes to mind. This is not a typical dinner night out. This is an occasion and it’s worth every penny. It is $300 per person (+ tax). This price is inclusive of food, beverage pairings, and service charges

It’s ABSOLUTELY worth it. You will leave this dinner STUFFED. It is 3 days later and I am still full. You will get about 10 courses and I am talking the most prime ingredients- Dry aged wagyu, Uni, truffles…. you will eat like a king/queen and enjoy every moment. Plus the setting and the whole experience. So good.

Alexa, play “Unforgettable”

Follow them on instagram