JINYA Ramen Bar will open their first South Bend, Indiana location on July 9 at 1145 N. Eddy St., bringing their Japanese ramen concept to the campus community near the University of Notre Dame. This marks the brand’s second restaurant in Indiana and the 74th across their growing network. The new opening is made in partnership with NFL linebacker and Notre Dame alum Jaylon Smith, who joins JINYA as a franchisee.
The first 100 guests in line on opening day at 11 a.m. will receive a free bowl of ramen.
Known for broths simmered in-house for 20 hours, JINYA Ramen Bar offers a customizable menu with slow-cooked ramen, small plates, and a curated list of craft beers and cocktails. Popular toppings include pork chashu, shrimp wontons and seasoned eggs, all served in a contemporary dining space designed for social gatherings.
Jaylon Smith’s collaboration with the brand reflects his continued investment in community and entrepreneurship. In addition to his NFL career, Smith is the founder of the Minority Entrepreneurship Institute, co-founder of eyewear brand CEV, and an active investor in real estate and private equity.
JINYA was founded by Tomo Takahashi and emphasizes kaizen, the Japanese philosophy of continuous improvement. Their growing portfolio includes bushi by JINYA, Robata JINYA, LBD Japanese Bar and Lounge, and JINYA Ramen Express.
For more on the menu and brand, visit jinyaramenbar.com.