Airi Ramen serves authentic Japanese cuisine and a go-to Ramen spot in Cypress

Hello Cypress had the opportunity to interview Airi Ramen Owner, Leo Cai, and talk about the local authentic Japanese restaurant located in Cypress with three additional locations open in New Caney, Spring, and Baytown.

View the DANG That’s Good video produced by McCurdy Media: on the Hello Cypress Facebook Page

Growing up, Leo’s father worked in a Chinese Restaurant, but he instead chose to pursue a accounting major. After graduating, Leo decided to study the restaurant industry and various types of cuisines. He soon discovered that ramen would be the best pathway to proceed which led to creating and opening Airi Poke and Ramen in New Caney.

From opening Airi Poke and Ramen to now four operating under the Airi Ramen name with three additional restaurants scheduled to open by end of 2024. Leo Cai shared that Airi Ramen’s mission is “to serve traditionally inspired, authentic and delicious Japanese food that you can possibly have without actually flying to Japan!” He continued that Airi Ramen also provides “a space for our customers to experience an elevated approach to Japanese cuisine: the go-to ramen hot spot.”

A dream that has now become a reality, Leo shared that each restaurant aims for a warm, inviting, and family-friendly atmosphere with a touch of rustic charm, featuring comfortable seating, soft lighting, and a relaxed ambiance. “We hope to serve a diverse clientele including local families, couples looking for a casual date night, and groups of friends seeking a friendly place to gather and enjoy delicious home-style cooking.”

And the best part? All ramen is house made. The freshly made ramen lasts about 24-72 hours instead of ordering dry packaged product from suppliers. Leo even visits Japan twice a year to continue his studies of the Raman process, always learning and striving to discover new ways and new styles. “You need to combine the local culture to combine new versions,” Leo confirmed.

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Airi Ramen promises quality and fresh ingredients, carefully crafted recipes, and a comfortable dining experience to its customers. The Cypress location is conveniently placed next to H-E-B and the focus on food quality, consistency, staff, marketing, and leadership is what Leo attribute’s to the restaurant’s success. But most importantly, it’s their focus on the local community. Airi Ramen gives back to local churches, schools, sports teams and sponsors many local events. They also a donate a percentage every month as meals to nonprofit organizations.

Leo’s favorite dish is the Black Garlic Tonkotsu Ramen, also a customer favorite. Popular menu items also include the 72-hour Beef Ramen and sushi. Airi Ramen offers soups and salads, Bao, Small Bites, Chicken and Pork Katsu, Airi Poke and bowls, various types of Ramen, Yaki Udon, Sushi Rolls, and so much more.

We asked Leo, what are five words to describe your restaurant? He responded, “True, Real Process, 100% fresh, clean, and comfortable.”

Airi Ramen is located at 28404 US-290 G19, Cypress, TX 77433 and is open Sunday through Thursday 11am – 10pm and Friday and Saturday 11am – 10:30pm.

For more information about Airi Ramen, view locations, view the menu and/or to place an order, call (832) 653-7786 or visit the website at https://airiramen.com/.

Follow on Airi Ramen social media: Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Airiramen Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/airiramen

Mike McCurdy, the owner of McCurdy Media, is the official media partner of Hello Cypress, specializing in all things related to videos and events. With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for capturing moments, Mike brings a wealth of experience to local news and community coverage. In addition to his media ventures, Mike is also the face behind the YouTube channel “Dang That’s Good,” which will be featuring exciting content on Hello Cypress, showcasing local events, businesses, and more.

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