Ramen Ramen Ramen
Ramen. The name alone is enough to make faces smile and tummies rumble. It’s delicious comfort in a bowl and has become one of Japan’s most notable and celebrated dishes. From its humble origins as a thick wheat noodle soup started by immigrants from China in the late 19th Century, it is now such an essential part of Japanese daily life that Japan’s own space agency created a formula to transport and consume it in space.
But where can you find the best bowl on earth? Well, there’s no accounting for taste: ramen-ya no shokunin (specialised ramen chefs) have adapted the dish with ingredients as strange as lemon and chocolate. However, today, we’re going to show you three of the most scrumptious traditional ramen spots we’ve discovered in Japan.
Ramen Nagi (ラーメン凪) – Tokyo
Ramen Nagi, a gem in Tokyo’s vibrant Shinjuku district, has gained a reputation for its innovative takes on traditional ramen. Founded in 2004 by chef Satoshi Ikeda, Ramen Nagi offers a unique variety of broths, including tonkotsu (pork bone), shoyu (soy sauce), and miso.
A super rich soup made from a unique blend of over 20 types of dried sardines carefully selected from all over Japan
What sets Ramen Nagi apart is its “original broth” concept, allowing diners to customize their ramen to suit their preferences. Each bowl starts with a base broth, and customers can choose additional ingredients, such as garlic oil, spicy paste, and different types of noodles. The standout option here is the “Black King” ramen, which features a rich, black garlic oil that elevates the tonkotsu broth to new heights.
Nagi original with a different texture
Ramen Nagi’s vibrant atmosphere and creative approach to ramen make it a favourite among locals and tourists alike. The restaurant embraces innovation while honouring the traditional roots of ramen, making it a perfect stop for anyone seeking an authentic yet adventurous ramen experience.
Address: 1-1-1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0021, Japan
Sumire (すみれ) – Sapporo
Founded in 1964, Sumire has become a staple in Sapporo’s ramen scene where it is particularly famous for its rich miso ramen, which originates on the island of Hokkaido. Sumire’s signature miso ramen features a hearty and flavourful broth made from simmered pork and chicken bones combined with high-quality miso paste, resulting in a thick, rich, and slightly sweet base that complements the medium-thick, curly noodles cooked to a perfect al dente texture. The ramen is elevated by generous and high-quality toppings, including tender chashu pork, crunchy menma (fermented bamboo shoots), freshly sliced green onions for colour, sweet corn, and optional butter for added creaminess, making each bowl a delightful experience.
The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere, with a casual setting that makes it a great spot for both locals and visitors. The restaurant typically has a line, especially during peak meal times, which is a testament to its popularity. Don’t let the wait deter you however: it’s definitely worth it.
Address: 4-7-28 Nakanoshima 2 Jo, Toyohira-ku, Sapporo City, Hokkaido
Ippudo (博多一風堂) – Fukuoka
Located in Fukuoka, the birthplace of tonkotsu ramen, Ippudo is a must-visit for ramen enthusiasts. Established in 1985, the original restaurant was so successful that it became a chain, bringing authentic ramen to the world.
At the original Ippudo, the star of the show is the rich, creamy tonkotsu broth, simmered for hours to extract maximum flavor from the pork bones. The noodles are thin and straight, perfectly cooked to complement the broth’s richness. Guests can personalize their ramen by choosing the firmness of the noodles, the richness of the broth, and additional toppings such as spicy miso or soft-boiled eggs.
What sets Ippudo apart is its dedication to the overall experience. The warm ambiance and attentive service make it a welcoming spot for both locals and tourists. As you savour a bowl of their signature Akamaru Shinaji, a tonkotsu ramen enhanced with garlic oil and miso, you’ll understand why Ippudo is a ramen institution.
Address: 1 Chome-13-14 Daimyo, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka, 810-0041, Japan
If all that reading made you hungry, then fear not for we have bountiful tours to bring these fine flavours to you. Of course, there might be some ramen connoisseurs who want to push the envelope and try something completely new. For them, lemon and chocolate are still on the menu…
