Adding authentic Japanese ramen to Blackpool’s food culture

As the food scene in the North West, particularly along the Fylde Coast, continues to grow and diversify, independent food businesses are playing an increasingly crucial role in shaping the culinary landscape. From experimental pop-ups to permanent vendors, many food vendors are choosing to set up shop in places like Blackpool, a town often known for its traditional tourist attractions but now beginning to make waves in the world of food innovation.

One of the standout success stories in Blackpool's burgeoning food scene is Nensho Men, a permanent food vendor in Abingdon Street Market that serves authentic Japanese dishes, particularly ramen, in a place that was once more known for fish and chips than for international flavours.

To learn more about Nensho Men and why independent businesses are choosing Blackpool as their base, we sat down with Lemon Liang, a representative from the Nensho Men team. The journey of Nensho Men is one that highlights the growing appeal of Blackpool as a location for creative culinary ideas to thrive.

Nensho Men was founded by Ivy and Mark, a couple whose passion for Japanese cuisine and culture took them on a journey across the world. After traveling to Japan, Ivy and Mark gained a deeper appreciation for the country’s food philosophy, which focuses on simplicity and freshness. They were particularly drawn to the ways in which traditional cooking methods enhance the natural flavours of ingredients while promoting healthier eating. Their admiration for this approach led to the creation of their first restaurant, Nensho, a BBQ bar in Hong Kong.

"We are passionate investors in the culinary world," said Lemon. "Ivy and Mark visited Japan and, after experiencing traditional Japanese food first-hand, they knew they wanted to bring those same healthy and authentic flavours back to Hong Kong. Their restaurant, Nensho, quickly became a local favorite for those seeking nutritious and delicious meals. They drew attention not just for the flavours, but for how well they promoted the philosophy of Japanese food, which contributes to Japan's reputation as one of the countries with the longest life expectancy."

But the pair's journey didn’t stop there. In fact, it was during a visit to Blackpool that Ivy and Mark discovered the town’s vibrant community and the potential it held for a fresh, exciting food concept.

It wasn’t by chance that Nensho Men found its way to Blackpool. In fact, Ivy and Mark stumbled upon the ton almost by accident, but they were immediately captivated by its charm.

"Our founders visited Blackpool by coincidence, but they instantly loved the environment and vibe surrounding the town," Lemon shared. "They were eager to share their passion for healthy, delicious Japanese cuisine with the community, recognizing Blackpool as a warm, close-knit area that attracts tourists."

Mark and Ivy saw an opportunity to bring something new to Blackpool—something that would not only expand the town’s culinary horizons but also complement the growing diversity in the food sector. As tourism continues to be a major economic driver for the area, they saw the potential for introducing authentic international cuisine, which would appeal to both locals and tourists alike.

"We wanted to diversify the food scene here in Blackpool and introduce authentic Japanese dishes that focus on simple, natural flavours," Lemon explained. "Blackpool has always been a place that welcomes people from all over, and there’s a real opportunity to expand the range of food options available. By doing so, we hope to inspire others to embrace new, nutritious meals while maintaining the essence of tradition."

Nensho Men, the couple’s first venture in Blackpool, opened its doors at Abingdon Street Market. The name "Nensho Men," which translates to "burning noodles," symbolises their passion for ramen and their commitment to bringing this beloved dish to a wider audience. The focus on ramen makes it stand out, as the dish is considered one of the most iconic and comforting meals in Japanese cuisine.

The ramen served at Nensho Men is made using a traditional method that requires a great deal of time and care. "The broth is the soul of the ramen," Lemon explained. "We take our time—up to 12 hours—to make sure we capture the depth of flavour that ramen is known for. It’s made with chicken and pork bones, which creates a rich, savory base that perfectly complements the noodles and toppings."

The care that goes into preparing the broth reflects the overall philosophy of Nensho Men: simple, traditional, and full of flavor. The ramen is designed not just to be a meal but an experience, inviting customers to savor each spoonful of the rich, aromatic broth and tender noodles. As Lemon noted, "Ramen is often a go-to for people looking for a satisfying lunch or a convenient yet hearty meal. It's a beloved favourite in Japanese cuisine, and we want to share that with the Blackpool community."

The decision to set up in Blackpool was not only about creating a successful business—it was about contributing to a larger trend in the Fylde Coast. Over the past few years, independent food vendors and restaurants have been steadily transforming the region’s food scene, moving away from traditional fish and chips and introducing a wide variety of international flavours.

“We’re seeing more and more businesses choosing Blackpool for the opportunity to create something new and unique,” Lemon said. "It's exciting because the town has been embracing this shift. People are willing to try new things, and that’s a big part of why Blackpool is becoming a destination for food lovers."

This trend toward culinary diversity has played a role in the success of Nensho Men. The market itself, which features numerous local food vendors, has become a hotspot for those looking for fresh, high-quality food. The decision to set up in a food hall was strategic—Abingdon Street Market offers exposure to a broad audience, from local shoppers to tourists.

“Ivy and Mark saw the potential to be a part of something larger, where they could not only provide a unique offering but also inspire others to get involved in the ever-growing food scene,” Lemon added. “There’s a sense of community here, with all of the independent food vendors working together to create something special.”

As Nensho Men settles into the Blackpool community, Ivy and Mark have big plans for the future. Their vision for Nensho Men extends beyond just serving ramen—it’s about enriching the local food culture and making Blackpool a more vibrant culinary destination.

“Blackpool has so much to offer, and we’re excited to contribute to the local culinary landscape,” Lemon said. “Our long-term goal is to introduce more traditional Japanese dishes to the area, offering people the opportunity to experience the delicate flavours and healthy options that define Japanese cuisine.”

Nensho Men represents the exciting potential of Blackpool as a hub for creative and diverse culinary offerings. With independent businesses like Nensho Men leading the charge, the Fylde Coast is positioning itself as a place where food enthusiasts can explore authentic and innovative dining experiences. As more vendors embrace the charm of Blackpool and its welcoming atmosphere, the town’s food scene is sure to continue flourishing, much to the delight of its residents and visitors alike.