Baka Umai Ramen Specialists Open New Portland Location

The popular spicy ramen shop expands to Northwest Portland with the Ramen Den.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 1:40pm

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Portland ramen shop Baka Umai has opened a second location in Northwest Portland called the Ramen Den, expanding the spicy ramen specialist beyond its original Hawthorne outpost. The new location on NW 23rd started service on February 12th, with a full ramen menu already available and cocktails and interior finishes expected to roll out in the next two weeks.

Why it matters

Baka Umai has built a strong following for its intensely spicy ramen bowls at its original Hawthorne location, and the expansion to Northwest Portland allows the team to bring their signature dishes to a new neighborhood known for its vibrant dining scene.

The details

The new Ramen Den location will offer table service in a dimmer, more intimate dining room compared to the counter service at the original spot. It will also have more beer on tap and a cocktail menu, including a signature Paper Crane drink. The Hawthorne location will now serve as a commissary kitchen, supplying broth, noodles, and prep for both restaurants.

  • Baka Umai's new Ramen Den location opened on February 12, 2026.
  • The full ramen menu is already available, while the cocktail menu and some interior finishes are expected to roll out in the next two weeks.

The players

Baka Umai

A Portland ramen shop known for its intensely spicy ramen bowls, including habanero and ghost pepper options.

Bobby Greenup

The owner of Baka Umai, who says the expansion was made possible after building a strong enough team at the original shop to support two locations.

Ramen Den

Baka Umai's new second location in Northwest Portland, offering a more intimate dining experience compared to the original counter-service Hawthorne spot.

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What they’re saying

“It's cozy, inviting, and kind of living on the edge just a little bit.”

— Bobby Greenup, Owner

What’s next

The new Ramen Den location is expected to hold a formal grand opening in the coming weeks, once the remaining interior finishes are completed.

The takeaway

Baka Umai's expansion to Northwest Portland demonstrates the growing popularity of its unique spicy ramen offerings, and the new Ramen Den location will allow the team to bring their signature dishes to a new neighborhood while offering a more intimate dining experience for customers.