14th March 2017
Wagamama is partnering has with Meantime Brewing to launch two Asian-inspired craft pale ales.
The beers – Kikku and Kansho – are exclusive to Wagamama and have been brewed with Asian-inspired flavours to enhance and complement key ingredients used in the restaurant chain’s dishes.
The pale ales have been created by Wagamama executive chef Steve Mangleshot and Meantime head brewer Ciaran Giblin. Kikku, meaning “kick” in Japanese, is a shichimi-infused beer and pairs with richer dishes such as short rib ramen and grilled duck donburi. Kansho, meaning “zesty”, is brewed with fresh lime and ginger, which Wagamama recommends pairing with lighter, citrus-infused dishes.
Mangleshot said: “Our brands share the same values and passions and we believe those are evident in the finished products. Our aim was to push the boundaries in finding unique but accessible flavours. I think we’ve really hit the mark.”
Last week, Wagamama reported turnover increased 15.7% to £64.2m in its third quarter to 29 January 2017, with 9% UK like-for-like sales growth. In February, Meantime Brewing Company, which was acquired in 2015 for £120m by SAB Miller and later sold on to Asahi Holdings, reported turnover increased to £26.5m in the 15 months to 31 March 2016, a rise of £9.8m.