#Japan #Tokyo #TableCheck #TRY Ramen Award #FastPass

TableCheck Partners with TRY Ramen Award

In a significant development within the ramen industry, TableCheck, a restaurant technology company based in Tokyo, has announced a partnership with the esteemed TRY Ramen Award, known as the highest authority in the ramen world. This collaboration, formalized between TableCheck CEO Yu Taniguchi and Kodansha BECK CEO Kazunobu Kakishima, marks an exciting step towards improving the ramen dining experience for enthusiasts both locally and internationally.

Introduction of TableCheck FastPass

The first initiative stemming from this collaboration involves the introduction of the TableCheck FastPass, a paid priority reservation service. This will allow customers to have guaranteed access to popular ramen shops listed on the TRY Ramen Award's official website, Tokyo Ramen of the Year, opening its digital doors to a seamless dining experience. Customers can easily purchase the FastPass while browsing the award-winning ramen shops, enhancing convenience and supporting restaurant operations.

Background and Significance

The partnership comes in response to the growing demand for ramen both in Japan and abroad. With an influx of international ramen fans visiting Japan, the long lines at these popular eateries have posed challenges for both customers and restaurant owners. By introducing the TableCheck FastPass, the collaboration aims to address these issues while also creating a new revenue stream for ramen establishments.

According to Masakazu Mizuno, Deputy General Manager of Kodansha BECK, the recognition that the TRY Ramen Award has garnered internationally has made it a trusted resource among ramen aficionados. He notes stories of fans visiting award-winning shops while carrying the TRY Ramen Award magazine, hoping to get signatures from chefs, which highlights the passionate community around ramen.

Comments from Leaders

Yu Taniguchi emphasizes the aim of the FastPass: to mitigate challenges such as opportunity loss due to long waits and discomfort during extreme weather conditions. He believes that this innovative approach will significantly improve the dining experience not just for tourists but for anyone yearning to enjoy delicious ramen without extensive wait times.

Mizuno adds that this partnership is aligned with their desire to respond to the expectations of both local and international enthusiasts, providing solutions to prevalent issues in the ramen dining experience.

About the TRY Ramen Award

Launched in 2000, the TRY Ramen Award, or Tokyo Ramen of the Year, has been dedicated to determining the best ramen in Tokyo through yearly evaluations. It has played a pivotal role in promoting renowned establishments and guiding both locals and visitors alike in their culinary pursuits. The award ceremony culminates annually in October with the announcement of the top ramen shops and newcomers.

About TableCheck FastPass

Set to launch in February 2024, the TableCheck FastPass is already set to be implemented in over 100 restaurants nationwide. It serves not only to provide customers with the privilege of avoiding queues but also equips restaurants with a new source of income through priority admission fees, addressing long-standing concerns within Japan's dining sector.

The Future of Ramen Dining

As this partnership unfolds, it aims to continuously explore innovative opportunities to further enhance the ramen dining industry, benefiting both operators and guests. With the rapid growth of ramen's popularity, this collaboration signifies a new chapter in how ramen enthusiasts can access their favorite shops comfortably. The adventure into ramen dining improvement has only just begun, and with the combined strengths of TableCheck and TRY Ramen Award, the future looks promising for all ramen lovers.

For further information, visit TableCheck’s official website and the TRY Ramen Award site at Tokyo Ramen of the Year.