“ZAO is a family-run ramen shop that has been a long time in the making. It all began 25 years ago with the patriarch and head chef, Myo Htun, when he began working at a small ramen shop in Tokyo, Japan. While working, Myo spent years working hard and developing recipes to ensure they were the absolute top notch.

His wife, Thida Naing, who holds extensive and varied experience from her time working in Japan, including classical French cuisine, different pastry techniques, as well as expertise in both Japanese and Chinese cuisine has been part of Myo’s ramen journey as well.

It’s no surprise that their son, Payesone Myatmon, grew up eating and loving ramen, followed in their footsteps by becoming a chef. A Culinary Institute of America graduate, he specializes in modern culinary techniques which gives a twist to his father’s traditional styled ramen. He brings fresh eyes and a modern approach to classic.

Six years ago, they began managing and operating Chaplin’s, a ramen shop and neighborhood favorite, but this family of chefs is ready to own their own restaurant. By using different techniques from across the world, hundreds of recipes developed, and three different chefs working with nearly three decades of experience between them, ZAO is set to impress.“