Neon Castle: Mysuru’s Ramen with a Story

The story behind Neon Castle and how it became a food landmark in the city

In a quiet lane in the heart of Mysuru sits a 90-year-old house with wooden rafters and a warm, nostalgic charm. At first glance, it may look like a heritage home – but step inside, and you’re met with flavours, stories, and an experience unlike any other. Welcome to Neon Castle.

And believe it or not – it all started with laser tag.

A Place Born From Fun

Back in 2017, Shamanth and Keerthana, two spirited 22-year-old Mysureans, decided to do something bold: bring laser tag to Mysuru. Neither came from a business background. In fact, no one in their families had ever done anything remotely entrepreneurial. But what they lacked in experience, they made up for in energy, sincerity, and a beautiful vision.

They didn’t want to follow a template – they just wanted to create something fun.
Along the way, they weren’t alone. Their close friends Pandith and Aakarsh were there from the very beginning. Pandith, a brilliant tinkerer, actually built the first set of laser tag jackets by hand. And Aakarsh, juggling a full-time corporate job, put in every bit of his savings to support the dream and helped keep the lights on in those uncertain early days.

After searching for commercial spaces they couldn’t afford to build out, the team stumbled upon a beautiful old house. The landlord was hesitant at first seeing them as “just kids” – but eventually, he agreed. That house, numbered 2725, became the home of Neon Castle.

They made everything themselves. Painted the interiors black. Created neon art on the walls. Even stitched gunny sacks into DIY bean bags. The city hadn’t seen anything like it in 2017.
As guests poured in to enjoy laser tag, something interesting began to happen. People began asking for snacks – a quick bite after the game. So they scribbled a simple menu on a blackboard: just fries, shakes, and a humble copy of their favourite Downtown Burger.

But then, one day, a group walked in and said, “We’re not here to play. We’re here for the food.” That one line changed everything.

The Ramen That Changed It All

Food slowly became the new focus. And the ramen? It wasn’t created in a professional kitchen. It was cooked by Keerthana for Shamanth – a cozy, comforting, homemade bowl, simple but full of soul.
But it wasn’t perfect. Not yet.

She kept tweaking it. Keerthana wanted it to have a stronger kick, a deeper broth, something that not only matched her preferences but also Mysuru’s love for bold flavours.
After many iterations, the Classic Ramen was born.
They served it to close friends at first, who waited nearly an hour for that first bowl. Today, that same ramen has become one of Mysuru’s most beloved dishes, served thousands of times at NC.

In those early days, Keerthana cooked every single dish herself in the kitchen while Shamanth handled the service – welcoming guests, taking orders, and making sure everyone felt at home. With no staff, just sheer will and passion, they poured themselves into every plate and every conversation. It wasn’t a business yet – it was a labour of love.

A Menu That Took Its Time

Over the years, Neon Castle has grown with Shamanth and Keerthana – evolving from a playful hangout into one of Mysuru’s most soulful food destinations. That same spirit of care and curiosity recently led to the creation of a brand-new menu, crafted over three intense months of trials, tastings, and experimentation.

The result? One of the most unique and innovative menus in the city – a bold expression of world cuisine layered with deeply personal flavours, unexpected pairings, and dishes that carry stories of their own. It’s not just food; it’s an experience that surprises you, comforts you, and stays with you.

The Home That Served a City

Neon Castle was never just a restaurant.
It’s why NC has never fit a label. Not a café. Not a fine-dining restaurant. Not a typical hangout spot either.
It’s a place that invites you in, feeds you with heart, and sends you home with stories. That’s why today, it’s known as NC 2725 – a tribute to the house that believed in them before anyone else did.

So the next time you’re craving ramen in Mysuru – you know where to go.

📍 Visit them at NC 2725, Mysuru

Follow them on Instagram: @NeonCastle.Mysore