Written by Isabella Aranda Garcia
What is the first thing you do when you open for the day?
Discuss the previous day’s customer service, any issue we had and how to improve.
What’s one thing your customers don’t know you do behind the scenes?
I check the camera to see if customers like our food…
What’s something you do that seems small but makes a huge difference?
I make stupid jokes to my employees so they don’t get overwhelmed when we are busy.
Tell us about your favorite local spot.
Stone Fire in Mt. Kisco, great pizza and my daughter loves it there.
How do you celebrate a big win?
Nice cold beer.
What’s your dream customer reaction?
When they smile with a first bite.
What’s something your business does differently than anyone else?
We make our own noodles from scratch.
What’s one thing people often say when they first walk in?
“Wow! It’s so big and nice here!”
What’s a word or phrase customers often use to describe your business—and do you agree?
“We had a great time! We’ll be back!” I hope they do!
What is something you wish more people knew about you and/or your business?
I worked at a Japanese restaurant wholesale company for 20 years and I source the best ingredients I can find.
Address: 1008 Broadway, Thornwood, NY 10594
Phone number: (914) 826-4665
Website: zeppinramen.com
This article was published in the January/February 2026 edition of Connect to Northern Westchester.
To view all 2026 Connect to the Best winners, click here.
Isabella Aranda is a designer, writer and social media specialist with an M.A. in emerging media from the New Media Institute at the Grady College of Journalism & Mass Communication. Driven by curiosity and inspired by timeless modern design, she blends creativity and strategy to craft compelling narratives that engage diverse audiences.
Her expertise spans digital marketing, content creation and UX design, with notable achievements such as co-creating the Georgia On Your Mind podcast and leading digital campaigns that significantly boosted engagement. A Venezuelan immigrant, Isabella brings a multicultural perspective to her work, enhancing her ability to connect with and inspire others.
