Wagamama Rushden Lakes: Complete Menu & Visitor Guide 2026

Wagamama Rushden Lakes is a prime dining spot located in the heart of the Rushden Lakes shopping center. Known for its contemporary Japanese-inspired cuisine, Wagamama Rushden Lakes offers a diverse menu that caters to all tastes and dietary needs. This article highlights the best features of Wagamama Rushden Lakes, ensuring you make the most of your visit.

Looking for quality Asian fusion at Rushden Lakes? Wagamama sits right in the heart of this popular shopping and leisure destination. Fresh ramen, crispy katsu curry, and bold flavors await you between retail therapy sessions.

This lakeside location offers more than just great food. You’ll find extended hours, family-friendly atmosphere, and stunning water views while dining. This guide covers everything from top menu picks to parking tips and booking essentials.

Finding Your Way to the Restaurant

Wagamama Rushden Lakes occupies a prime spot in the retail park. The restaurant sits near the main entrance with clear signage directing visitors. You’ll spot it easily while walking between shops and entertainment venues.

The location puts you steps away from major retailers like Primark and Next. Cinema-goers often stop here before or after catching films at Cineworld. This central position makes combining activities incredibly convenient throughout the day.

Ample parking surrounds the entire Rushden Lakes complex for free use. Multiple car parks offer spaces close to restaurant entrances always. The easy access makes this branch popular with families traveling by car.

When to Visit for Best Experience

The restaurant opens at 11 AM and closes at 10 PM daily. Weekend hours remain consistent making planning easier for regular visitors. Bank holidays might adjust timing so verify before traveling long distances.

Weekday lunchtimes between noon and 2 PM see moderate steady traffic. Office workers and shoppers fill tables during this window regularly. Arrive before noon or after 2 PM for immediate seating availability.

Friday and Saturday evenings get busiest between 6 PM and 8 PM. Cinema crowds and weekend diners pack the restaurant during these hours. Booking ahead for groups larger than four makes sense then.

Must-Order Dishes at This Branch

Chicken katsu curry dominates the order board month after month here. Golden breaded chicken arrives over sticky rice with curry sauce drizzled. The portion satisfies most appetites without leaving you uncomfortably full afterward.

Chicken ramen provides warming comfort in every single spoonful served. Rich broth surrounds tender noodles with grilled chicken breast on top. Spring onions, menma, and soft-boiled egg complete this beloved bowl.

Firecracker chicken delivers sweet heat that keeps customers returning weekly. Sticky glazed chicken mixes with crisp mangetout, peppers, and red onions. The caramelized sauce creates flavors you’ll crave days after visiting.

Vegan Choices That Impress

Bang bang cauliflower leads the plant-based starter selection every time. Crispy florets wear firecracker sauce with fresh cilantro scattered generously. Even meat-eaters order this dish regularly for its addictive taste.

Yasai katsu curry gives vegetarians identical quality to chicken versions. Sweet potato, butternut squash, and aubergine get breaded then fried golden. The mild curry sauce works perfectly for those avoiding heat.

Kare burosu ramen features coconut and lemongrass in rich plant broth. Shiitake mushrooms and miso paste create deep umami throughout each spoonful. Rice noodles replace wheat making this suitable for gluten-free diets.

Starting Your Meal Right

Gyoza dumplings arrive pan-fried with chicken or vegetable filling options. The crispy bottom contrasts beautifully with steamed tender top portions. Dipping sauce blends soy, rice vinegar, and chili oil harmoniously.

Edamame beans come steamed simply with sea salt or spiced. These protein-rich pods make healthy appetizers before heavier mains ordered. Children enjoy them as fun interactive finger food always.

Korean barbecue beef brings marinated ribeye with spring onions and sesame. This sharing plate works great between two hungry diners seated. Sweet and savory flavors penetrate every slice of tender meat.

Rice Bowl Selections

Teriyaki dishes feature grilled chicken, beef, or salmon with sweet glaze. The marinade caramelizes during cooking creating rich taste in bites. Brown rice option adds fiber making meals more filling overall.

Donburi bowls layer chosen protein over seasoned rice with vegetables. Chicken or beef cooks with ginger and garlic before final plating. Sesame seeds and spring onions add finishing touches on top.

Firecracker rice bowl combines spicy chicken with sticky sauce over rice. This simpler format suits those wanting bold flavor without noodles. The portion works perfectly for lunch or lighter dinner needs.

Noodle Dishes Beyond Ramen

Yaki soba stir-fried noodles come with chicken, beef, or prawn choices. Wok heat creates characteristic smoky flavor throughout the entire dish. Egg, vegetables, and pickles add texture with tangy contrast present.

Pad thai offers familiar Thai-inspired flavors with rice noodles used. Chicken, prawns, or tofu get tossed with beansprouts, egg, peanuts. This option works well for diners new to Asian fusion.

Chili chicken ramen increases heat with red chilies and fresh ginger. Spice builds gradually without overwhelming the rich broth underneath it. Fresh lime wedges on side add brightness when squeezed over.

Sides Worth Adding

Sticky ribs arrive glazed in teriyaki sauce after slow cooking. Meat falls off bone effortlessly with each bite taken eagerly. These work as appetizers or extras alongside mains you’ve chosen.

Chili squid gets lightly battered then fried with red chilies. Coating stays crispy while squid inside remains tender throughout eating. This spicy side balances milder main dishes ordered perfectly.

Tama squid offers simpler preparation with shichimi spice and lime. Grilled squid develops slight char enhancing natural sweetness beautifully here. Squeeze lime generously over top before eating each piece.

Kids Menu Options

Mini chicken katsu curry shrinks adult portions for young appetites. Mild curry sauce appeals to children who typically avoid spice. Fresh fruit and juice complete these balanced kid-friendly meals.

Chicken noodles in broth provide simpler choices for picky eaters. Clear soup base lets kids taste individual ingredients easily separated. Grilled chicken strips sit atop soft noodles in bowl.

High chairs and booster seats remain readily available throughout service. Staff welcome families with strollers and young children warmly here. The relaxed atmosphere makes family dining enjoyable and stress-free.

Refreshing Drink Options

Fresh juices include apple, orange, and tropical blends made daily. No added sugar or preservatives appear in any juice served. Natural sweetness comes entirely from fresh fruit used in preparation.

Japanese sodas like ramune feature unique marble stopper bottle designs. Kids love opening these novelty drinks before meals begin eagerly. Flavors range from original to strawberry and exotic varieties.

Hot tea selection includes traditional green tea and flavored options. Loose leaf quality shows through in every carefully brewed pot. Multiple cups stay hot throughout your complete dining experience here.

Finishing With Dessert

Chocolate layer cake arrives rich and dense with multiple strata. Ganache frosting adds indulgence to an already decadent sweet treat. Share between two people unless you have serious sugar cravings.

White chocolate ginger cheesecake balances sweet cream with warming spice. Biscuit base provides textural contrast to smooth creamy filling layers. This works better after lighter main courses for ending.

Mochi ice cream balls offer lighter finish after heavy filling meals. These Japanese treats combine chewy rice cake with cold ice cream. Various flavors rotate through Wagamama Rushden Lakes location regularly.

Understanding Menu Prices

Starters cost between £5 and £8 depending on dish selected. Main courses run from £10 to £16 for most standard options. Premium items like salmon dishes sit at higher pricing points.

Side dishes add £3 to £6 to your final bill per plate. Drinks range from £2 for soft drinks up to £4 for juices. Desserts cost around £5 to £6 each on the menu.

Typical meals for one person cost £15 to £22 including drinks. Families of four can expect bills between £50 and £70 total. Value matches generous portions and quality ingredients used throughout.

Current Deals and Promotions

Lunchtime bento boxes run from opening until 5 PM on weekdays. These combination meals include main, side, and drink at reduced prices. Selection rotates but always features popular customer favorite dishes.

Student discounts apply throughout the week with valid identification cards. The 15% reduction makes regular visits more affordable for students. This deal works on full menu, not just budget items.

Kids eat free promotions run during school holidays at this location. One free kids meal comes with each paying adult main ordered. Check social media channels for exact dates and specific terms.

Dietary Requirements Managed

Vegan dishes make up nearly quarter of the complete menu. Each item gets marked clearly with symbols for easy identification. Kitchen uses separate preparation areas avoiding cross-contamination with animal products.

Gluten-free options include rice noodle dishes and certain curry selections. Ask servers about specific ingredients if you have severe allergies. They maintain detailed allergen information for every menu item available.

Low-calorie choices focus on grilled proteins and vegetable-forward options. Nutrition information appears on their website for meal planning. Portion sizes remain generous even for lighter healthier choices.

Reserving Your Table

Small groups typically get seated immediately during quieter afternoon periods. Lunch and dinner rushes fill quickly between peak meal times. Arrive slightly earlier or later for guaranteed quick seating.

Large parties of six or more should book ahead directly. Staff can arrange proper seating for bigger groups with advance notice. Walk-ins work fine for typical pairs or small families visiting.

Online booking through their website takes just minutes to complete. Confirmation emails arrive within moments of submitting your reservation details. System sends reminder messages the day before your booking.

Takeaway Service Details

Order takeaway directly at counter for quick collection service available. Food packaging keeps everything hot and prevents spills during transport. Collection usually takes 15 to 20 minutes from order placement.

Delivery apps like Deliveroo and Uber Eats carry full menu. Third-party platforms charge their own fees on top of costs. Direct orders through Wagamama Rushden Lakes sometimes offer better overall value.

Large takeaway orders for parties need advance notice for results. Call ahead if ordering for groups over six people. Kitchen prepares everything together for synchronized pickup timing perfectly.

What Makes This Location Special

The lakeside setting provides scenic views while you dine comfortably. Outdoor seating becomes available during warmer months for alfresco dining. This unique feature sets Wagamama Rushden Lakes apart from other branches.

Consistent quality keeps local families returning week after week here. Kitchen maintains standards even during busy Saturday afternoon shopping rushes. That reliability builds strong trust with regular customers visiting monthly.

Staff at Rushden Lakes are known for friendly efficient service. They explain menu items clearly and offer helpful recommendations willingly. The team handles dietary questions with knowledge and confidence always.

Perfect Lakeside Dining

Wagamama Rushden Lakes combines quality food with scenic surroundings beautifully. The menu variety satisfies different taste preferences from mild to spicy. Quick service and convenient location make it ideal for any occasion.

Prices remain fair for portion sizes and ingredient quality delivered. Family-friendly atmosphere welcomes everyone from solo diners to large groups. Dietary accommodations ensure everyone finds something suitable and delicious.

Next time you visit Rushden Lakes, stop by for fresh flavors. You’ll understand why this location has become a local favorite.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly is Wagamama Rushden Lakes located? Find it in the main retail park near the central entrance. The restaurant sits among shops and entertainment venues for convenience.

What are the opening hours? They open at 11 AM and close at 10 PM daily. Hours remain consistent throughout the week for easy planning.

Can I book a table ahead? Yes, groups of six or more can reserve tables. Smaller parties work on walk-in basis during service hours.

Are vegan options available? Multiple vegan dishes appear clearly marked throughout the menu. Plant-based choices include ramen, curry, stir-fries, and appetizers available.

Is parking free at Rushden Lakes? Yes, ample free parking surrounds the entire retail complex. Multiple car parks offer convenient spaces near restaurant entrances.