MENSHO is a Japanese ramen brand known for its creative approach to ramen making, combining traditional techniques with modern culinary innovation. Founded by chef Tomoharu Shono, the brand has gained international recognition for its rich broths, original noodle recipes, and premium ingredients. With restaurants operating in Japan and overseas, MENSHO continues to expand globally through franchise partnerships.

MENSHO, Inc. is the company behind the MENSHO ramen brand. Founded by ramen chef Tomoharu Shono, the company operates several ramen concepts including MENSHO Tokyo and other MENSHO-branded restaurants. The brand focuses on elevating ramen beyond a simple comfort food by combining traditional Japanese ramen techniques with creative ingredients and modern culinary ideas.
MENSHO’s philosophy centers on craftsmanship, ingredient quality, and constant innovation. The restaurants are known for distinctive ramen dishes such as rich chicken-based broths, premium toppings, and house-made noodles designed to complement each soup style. Through its global expansion strategy, MENSHO aims to introduce its unique ramen culture to new markets while maintaining consistent quality and brand identity.

MENSHO has earned international recognition for its creative approach to ramen. Instead of focusing only on traditional styles, the brand continuously develops new recipes that incorporate premium ingredients and modern culinary techniques. This innovative approach has helped MENSHO attract food enthusiasts and ramen fans around the world.
Restaurants under the MENSHO brand are known for distinctive menu items and visually impressive ramen bowls that combine rich broths with carefully selected toppings. This originality allows the brand to stand out in competitive ramen markets and attract customers seeking unique dining experiences.
Another strength of the MENSHO franchise lies in the brand’s strong culinary foundation. Developed by an experienced ramen chef, the concept emphasizes balance between broth, noodles, and toppings. The brand’s reputation for quality has helped its restaurants gain recognition from food media and restaurant guides.
For franchise partners, this strong brand identity can help attract customers who are interested in authentic Japanese ramen combined with innovative flavors. By maintaining consistent standards and supporting franchise operators, MENSHO aims to deliver a ramen experience that appeals to both local diners and international visitors.
Matching Your Location
3 Recommended
Japanese Food Franchise Brands
| Store | Rating | Survey Date |
|---|---|---|
| Mensho (San Francisco, USA) | Approx. 4 / 5 | March 2026 |
Source:
Tripadvisor
The San Francisco location of MENSHO has received strong feedback from customers on Tripadvisor. Many reviewers highlight the restaurant’s rich chicken-based ramen broth, unique flavor combinations, and carefully prepared noodles. The restaurant is also known for its limited seating and long lines, reflecting its popularity among ramen enthusiasts. This reputation for quality and creativity has helped the brand gain international recognition.
“One of the best ramen experiences in San Francisco. The broth is rich and flavorful, and the noodles have an excellent texture.”
Source: Tripadvisor
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g60713-d9838725-Reviews-Mensho-San_Francisco_California.html
“Small restaurant but worth the wait. The ramen flavors are unique and the ingredients feel very high quality.”
Source: Tripadvisor
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g60713-d9838725-Reviews-Mensho-San_Francisco_California.html
“The ramen here is creative and different from most traditional ramen shops. Definitely worth trying if you enjoy innovative ramen dishes.”
Source: Tripadvisor
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g60713-d9838725-Reviews-Mensho-San_Francisco_California.html
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Franchise fee | Please refer to official franchise information |
| Initial investment | Please refer to official franchise information |
| Royalty | Please refer to official franchise information |
Source:
MENSHO Franchise Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Company Name | MENSHO, Inc. |
| Total Number of Restaurants (Including Company-Operated Locations) | Please refer to official website |
| Address | Japan |
MENSHO is a ramen brand recognized for combining traditional Japanese ramen craftsmanship with modern culinary creativity. Founded by chef Tomoharu Shono, the brand has built a strong reputation through its distinctive ramen recipes, premium ingredients, and visually striking dishes. MENSHO restaurants have expanded beyond Japan to international markets, attracting ramen enthusiasts who are interested in both authentic flavors and innovative menu concepts.
For entrepreneurs interested in opening a ramen restaurant, the MENSHO franchise offers the opportunity to introduce a globally recognized ramen concept to new markets. The brand’s focus on quality ingredients, creative menu development, and consistent restaurant standards helps differentiate MENSHO from many conventional ramen shops. With proper operational support and a distinctive brand identity, MENSHO presents a franchise concept designed to appeal to modern diners seeking unique Japanese ramen experiences.
Matching Your Location
3 Recommended
Japanese Food Franchise Brands
Even within Japanese food, the most receptive customer segments vary by genre. This section introduces recommended Japanese food genres based on the characteristics of the prospective area, along with Japanese franchise brands that already operate locations in the United States. The focus is on the food that can be offered by joining each franchise brand.

Gyu-Kaku delivers authenticity through certified Japanese A5 Wagyu. By also featuring USDA Prime beef, they offer steakhouse-quality dining at accessible prices.
From import to processing, Japanese staff strictly manage quality at every step, delivering the same authentic flavor found in premium yakiniku restaurants in Japan.
| Franchise fee | $50,000 |
|---|---|
| Initial investment | Approx. $1,215,444 to $2,606,540 |
| Royalty | 5% on annual sales up to approx. $1,500,000 4.5% on annual sales from approx. $1,500,000 to $2,000,000 4% on annual sales over approx. $2,000,000 |
| Number of restaurants | 825 worldwide (including 63 in the United States and 580 in Asia) |
| TripAdvisor rating | 4.3 out of 5.0 (442 reviews)*2 |

A wide range of toppings, from chicken katsu to omelets, ensures a fresh experience every visit, driving strong customer loyalty.
In addition to toppings, customers can adjust rice portions and spice levels, making the menu enjoyable for those who prefer milder flavors as well as those who want larger portions.
| Initial franchise fee | $40,000 |
|---|---|
| Initial investment | Not listed |
| Royalty | Not listed |
| Number of restaurants | 1,480 worldwide (including 11 in the United States and 1,467 in Asia) |
| TripAdvisor rating | 4.3 out of 5.0 (41 reviews)*3 |

As a popular chain with 861 locations in Japan*1, franchisees are able to consistently serve udon noodles with a firm, chewy texture, supported by the headquarters after opening.
The noodle-making, boiling, and cooling processes are demonstrated in an open kitchen, allowing customers to enjoy a freshly made, live dining experience.
| Franchise fee | $40,000 to $64,000 |
|---|---|
| Initial investment | $1,126,500 to $1,980,000 |
| Royalty | 5% of sales |
| Number of restaurants | 1,188 worldwide (including 23 in the United States and 1,155 in Asia) |
| TripAdvisor rating | 4.5 out of 5.0 (108 reviews)*4 |
*1 Source: Marugame Udon official website(https://jp.marugame.com/shop/), as of a December 2025 survey
*2 TripAdvisor: New York City location, as of October 28, 2025(https://www.tripadvisor.jp/Restaurant_Review-g60763-d3175593-Reviews-Gyu_Kaku_Japanese_BBQ-New_York_City_New_York.html)
*3 TripAdvisor: Irvine location, as of October 28, 2025(https://www.tripadvisor.jp/Restaurant_Review-g32530-d9750729-Reviews-Coco_Ichibanya-Irvine_California.html)
*4 TripAdvisor: Los Angeles location, as of October 28, 2025(https://www.tripadvisor.jp/Restaurant_Review-g32655-d4019757-Reviews-Marugame_Monzo-Los_Angeles_California.html)
* TripAdvisor ratings are based on the highest-rated U.S. location.
*The number of restaurants is based on the following references. As of a December 2025 survey
Gyu-Kaku official website(https://www.gyukaku.ne.jp/world.php)
CoCo Ichibanya official website(https://www.ichibanya.co.jp/comp/ir/finance/highlight/graph01.html)
Marugame Udon official website(https://jp.marugame.com/shop/)