We visited Wagamama’s Noodle Lab to try its new menu items - from K-dogs and chouxnuts

Wagamama fans get a chance to try new exclusive dishes while also enjoying their tried and tested faves at the restaurant chain’s new Noodle Lab. Vegan K-dogs and chouxnuts are just a few of the menu additions at the spin-off spot.

Wagamama’s experimental Noodle Lab returned to Soho last week (July 19). At the time, it moved on from its Old Street location as the new Great Marlborough Street spot opened its doors.

Having first popped up in Soho in 2017, the Noodle Lab is no stranger to the area. It was previously based in Dean Street, but the location closed in 2020 after three years. The following year the test space was relaunched in Old Street.

Like the past iterations of the Noodle Lab, the space once again offers customers a chance to taste new recipes and dishes before they are rolled out nationwide. Those daring enough to try something other than their go-to dish will be able to explore new flavours.

The exclusive Noodle Lab menu currently features a range of experimental dishes, including side, main and dessert offerings. Accompanying the new foods is a couple of different drink options too.

The most anticipated new dish would probably be the chain’s version of the Korean street food favourite, K-dog. Having had its moment on social media recently, Wagamama has created its own vegan version for Noodle Lab customers, and it certainly doesn’t disappoint.

The battered vegan sausage coated with noodle crumbs combined with the turmeric vegan mayonnaise and sriracha offers a flavourful fried snack. In particular, the batter helps calm and balance the kick of the sriracha.

The Tokyo fries are another must-try side available. The loaded matchstick-style sweet potato fries offer something light for those wanting something small before tackling their main. While the dish has the familiar fries taste, you may not feel like you’re eating fries because of their small size.

Finally, those with a sweet tooth won’t want to miss the new chouxnuts. Described as a "soft doughnut meets crisp choux pastry" on the menu, the light bun is filled with a custard of your choice. Having tried the Kuromitsu version, which includes Japanese caramel-flavoured custard, it offers a light treat to wrap up your meal.

A standout of the Noodle Lab exclusive menu would definitely be the K-dog as well as the chouxnuts. If you’re a Wagamama fan, the restaurant is worth a visit. I certainly plan to visit again.

Where is the Wagamama Noodle Lab? 

Address: 42 Great Marlborough St, Carnaby, London W1F 7JL

Nearest station: Oxford Circus

Opening hours: Sunday - Thursday 11am - 10pm, Friday - Saturday 11am - 11pm.