Denver foodies, get ready to slurp! A new culinary force has arrived, bringing the authentic, comforting flavors of Japan right to your doorstep. Ninja Ramen, the city’s latest ghost kitchen sensation, is transforming the takeout experience with steaming bowls of perfectly crafted ramen.

If you’re wondering what a ghost kitchen is, think of it as a restaurant without a traditional storefront—operating solely for delivery or pickup. This model allows Ninja Ramen to focus entirely on crafting exceptional ramen bowls, ensuring every order is filled with rich broths, springy noodles, and savory toppings, all delivered hot and fresh.

“We went from a food truck to a brick-and-mortar—with a ghost kitchen as the fastest step in between,” explained co-owner Midori Fujishige Blanks.

From Food Truck to Ghost Kitchen

Owners Chef Hiroaki (Hiro) Takeda and Midori Fujishige Blanks are partners in both business and life. In 2023, Midori’s son, Rusty Blanks, moved from Las Vegas—where he worked in a sushi restaurant—to Denver to help launch Ninja Ramen. It’s truly a family affair: Hiro and Rusty focus on cooking, while Midori manages operations and customer relations.

Switching from a food truck to a ghost kitchen offered both challenges and benefits. “The food truck didn’t need much marketing thanks to busy locations,” Midori shared. “But with the ghost kitchen, we had to figure out how to drive traffic ourselves.”

While ghost kitchens save on traditional rent, they require strong marketing to reach customers who can’t “stumble upon” the business. Ninja Ramen relies on DoorDash, Grubhub, and Uber Eats, as well as creative local outreach.

“Our location is a bit hidden, so we put up large flags, posters, and banners,” Midori said. “We even offered free miso soup on the street from 7 to 9 a.m. for four days to grab attention!”

Social media has also been crucial. Rusty leads their digital marketing, posting mouthwatering photos and sharing customer stories on Instagram and Facebook. Positive Google and Yelp reviews play a big role in attracting new fans.

“For people who haven’t visited us, online reviews are incredibly important,” Midori explained. “Many new customers find us through social media. In today’s world, having an active online presence is essential.”

Authentic Japanese Comfort Food

What makes Ninja Ramen stand out? It’s their dedication to authentic Japanese flavors.

“We stay true to tradition, but add a little extra spice to suit Denver’s taste,” said Midori. “Many of our customers have been to Japan and are looking for that same flavor experience—we do our best to deliver it.”

One secret ingredient is the alkaline water they use for cooking. “Japanese water is naturally soft, so alkaline water helps replicate that taste. Plus, it has added health benefits,” she said.



Their Tonkotsu Ramen is the current best-seller, though Shoyu Ramen and Veggie Ramen are also crowd favorites. Seasonal shifts don’t slow down demand—Denverites crave ramen year-round.

The team is also working on expanding the menu with onigiri rice balls and Japanese-style fruit sandwiches.

Looking Ahead

Ninja Ramen’s ultimate goal is to open a full-service restaurant offering authentic Japanese sake and beer alongside its comforting bowls of ramen.

“We’re committed to maintaining the highest quality of food and service as we grow,” said Midori.

In the meantime, Denver diners can enjoy Ninja Ramen’s ghost kitchen experience through delivery, takeout, or by stopping by their tucked-away location in North Park Hill. See their full menu and order online at www.ninja-ramen.com.

Ninja Ramen

5155 E. 39th Avenue Denver, CO 80207

www.ninja-ramen.com

Facebook: fb.com/DenverFoodTruck

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ninjaramenmobile