Ivan Ramen: Bridging Cultures Through Innovative Ramen

Ivan Ramen is a distinctive ramen restaurant chain founded by Chef Ivan Orkin. Orkin's journey into the culinary world began with a dishwashing job at a sushi bar when he was 15, sparking a lifelong passion for Japanese culture and cuisine. He pursued Japanese language and literature at the University of Colorado, Boulder, and later honed his culinary skills at the Culinary Institute of America.

In 2006, Orkin opened his first ramen shop in Tokyo's Setagaya neighborhood, a bold move that led to remarkable success in Japan's esteemed ramen scene.

Building on his success in Japan, Orkin returned to the United States and established Ivan Ramen in New York City. The flagship restaurant opened at 25 Clinton Street on the Lower East Side, offering a menu that blends authentic Japanese flavors with innovative twists. Dishes feature rich broths, handcrafted noodles, and unique toppings, reflecting Orkin's deep understanding of both Japanese and American culinary traditions.

In 2021, Ivan Ramen Franchising LLC was formed, marking the beginning of the brand's expansion through franchising. The company's principal business address is 42 Maple Street, Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522. The franchise offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to operate casual dining restaurants specializing in ramen and other Japanese-inspired dishes.

Ivan Ramen differentiates itself by combining traditional Japanese ramen techniques with Orkin's unique culinary perspective, appealing to a diverse clientele. The brand's commitment to quality ingredients, meticulous preparation, and a welcoming dining experience has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated following.

Training

The Ivan Ramen franchise provides a structured and multi-phase training program for its franchisees and key personnel. Here's a breakdown of the training programs offered by the franchisor:

1. Initial Training Program: This is a mandatory program for the franchisee (if an individual), the Operations Manager, the Trainer, and the Restaurant Chef. It typically takes place at the franchisor’s facilities in New York City and includes instructional materials such as Brand Standards, recipes, photos, and videos. The program must be completed before the restaurant opens. It is included in the Initial Franchise Fee, but any additional or subsequent trainees incur a charge of $2,500 per person.
2. Post-Opening Training: If any new Operations Managers, Trainers, or Chefs are appointed after the restaurant has opened, they must attend and complete the next scheduled Initial Training Program, again at a cost of $2,500 per person.
3. Annual Conferences and Ongoing Training: The franchisor may organize annual conferences, conventions, or training sessions that are required for the franchisee and Operations Manager. These sessions are designed to update and reinforce the operational standards of the brand.
4. Optional On-Site Training: Franchisees can request additional on-site training or assistance, which the franchisor may provide at its discretion. This service is subject to availability and may incur additional fees, typically up to $2,500 per day.
5. Trainer Role and Staff Training: Each franchise location must have a designated Trainer who has completed the Initial Training Program. This person is responsible for training the restaurant staff. The Trainer can be the franchisee, the Operations Manager, or another qualified individual.

Territory Protection

Ivan Ramen grants franchisees a defined “Franchise Territory,” but it is not exclusive. Franchisees may face competition from other franchisees, company-owned outlets, or other distribution channels, including online platforms and grocery sales.

If a franchisee signs an Area Development Agreement, they receive a “Development Territory” with protections for each restaurant. However, failing to meet $1.25 million in annual revenue may result in the loss of these protections.