ZuZu Ramen Says ‘Sayonara’ Soon After Sister Restaurant Sheep Station Says ‘G’Day’

“All good things come to an end” was the short and simple Facebook post by ZuZu Ramen, a noodle shop which has been at 173 4th Avenue at Degraw Street since May 2009. The restaurant officially served its last bowl on September 8.

Neighbor A.J. Jitchaku noticed mail collecting in front of the restaurant last week. In addition, the phone has been disconnected and website has been suspended.

ZuZu was owned by Jason Crew and Martine Lafond, who recently closed their Australian Pub Sheep Station located nearby at 149 4th Avenue at Douglass Street. Their farewell party was on July 28 of this year.

“We have loved sharing our lives and having laughs and many a beer with all our regulars and customers,” said manager Sheree Kentwell after their closure announcement. “We will be closing the doors with a big goodbye party open to all, so come by and enjoy good memories and have a laugh.”

“I don’t spend big bucks on ramen that often, but the food here is pretty tasty. Plus it has a nice low-key vibe that’s less definitely frenetic [sic] than the East Village spots,” wrote Serious Eats back when the noodle shop opened.

New York magazine wrote, “…classically trained chef Akihiro Moroto, late of Lespinasse and Jean Georges, has taken several liberties with tradition, at the risk of infuriating some devotees and titillating others. Consider us thoroughly titillated, especially by the Thai-inspired green-curry-miso ramen…”

Although the exact reason for ZuZu’s closure is unclear, Department of Buildings property records state that a “violation for failure to certify correction of Class 1 violation exists on this property — DOB civil penalties due.” A Class 1 violation property has “immediately hazardous” conditions.

While ZuZu remains quiet and shuttered at the moment, the former Sheep Station space is almost ready to open as The Douglass Tap & Grill. The new restaurant’s Facebook post from today says, “What was and is soon to be. Renovations are done. Stay tuned for opening information.” Pete Cavanaugh is the new owner.

There is no shortage of restaurants in the immediate vicinity of ZuZu. The elegant Korean barbecue and karaoke restaurant Insa opened across the street at 328 Douglass Street back in December. HENRI’s Backyard opened in July at 256 4th Avenue (between President and Carroll Streets). And Threes Brewing/Ninth Street Espresso are just across 4th Avenue at 333 Douglass Street.

Curious about other recent openings and closings? Check out our most recent edition of Slope Eats & Drinks.