A Japanese Ramen and rice bowl restaurant is preparing to open in the Chatham Square Shopping Center in Springfield. Bowl Plus will occupy the space next to Godfather’s Pizza in the strip center at 1754 Wabash Ave.

Owner Steve Zhao has been a part of various restaurant ventures throughout central Illinois, including Springfield’s two Hibachi Madness locations. He said business partner for this venture, Xing Wu, has worked in similar restaurants on the East Coast for more than a decade, and will oversee the daily operations.

“It will be soup-based Ramen, each one has their own flavor,” said Zhao.  “Everything will be made from scratch.” There are thousands of variations on Ramen, a Japanese noodle soup dish that is popular worldwide.

“We’re still working on finalizing the menu,” said Zhao, who said he is considering adding boba tea. Bowl Plus has received a liquor license, so imported Japanese beer will definitely be among the offerings.

Zhao said that all the construction materials are on hand for remodeling work, which will take place over the next few weeks. He hopes to be ready to open by July 1.

Bowl Plus will offer sit-down dining and carryout service and will be open from 10 a.m.-9 p.m., seven days a week.