A Food Lover's Guide to Tokyo's Best Ramen
Tokyo is a ramen lover's paradise, offering an endless variety of styles and flavors that reflect the city's culinary creativity. From traditional shoyu (soy sauce) broths to rich tonkotsu (pork bone) soups and spicy miso creations, Tokyo’s ramen scene is as diverse as it is delicious. Whether you’re seeking a Michelin-starred experience or a humble neighborhood noodle shop, Tokyo has something to satisfy every ramen craving. Here’s a guide to some of the best ramen spots in the city, where each bowl tells a story of passion, tradition, and innovation.
1. Tsuta – Sugamo
Tsuta made history as the first ramen restaurant to receive a Michelin star, and it continues to impress with its refined take on this beloved dish. Known for its delicate shoyu-based broth made with soy sauce aged in cedar barrels, Tsuta elevates ramen to an art form. The noodles, crafted in-house, perfectly complement the rich yet balanced soup, while the use of truffle oil adds a luxurious twist.
Specialty: The Shoyu Soba, featuring a fragrant soy-based broth, thin noodles, and tender slices of chashu pork, is finished with a drizzle of black truffle oil for an indulgent touch.
Location: 1-14-1 Sugamo, Toshima City, Tokyo 170-0002. Located a short walk from Sugamo Station on the JR Yamanote Line.
Local Tip: Arrive early to secure a spot, as seating is limited and queues are common for this Michelin-starred gem.
Rating: 4.9/5
2. Ichiran – Shibuya
A favorite among locals and tourists alike, Ichiran is renowned for its tonkotsu (pork bone) ramen and its unique solo dining booths. The customizable experience allows diners to tailor the broth, noodle firmness, and spice level to their liking, ensuring every bowl is perfect. Ichiran’s creamy, rich broth and perfectly cooked noodles make it a must-visit for tonkotsu fans.
Specialty: The Classic Tonkotsu Ramen, served with thin noodles, a slice of pork, and a signature spicy red sauce, is a comforting and flavorful choice.
Location: 1-22-7 Jinnan, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0041. Just a short walk from Shibuya Station’s Hachiko Exit.
Local Tip: Order the extra noodle refill (kaedama) to make the most of the rich, flavorful broth.
Rating: 4.8/5
3. Afuri – Ebisu
Known for its signature yuzu (Japanese citrus) ramen, Afuri offers a refreshing twist on traditional flavors. The light, tangy yuzu broth pairs beautifully with thin, springy noodles and toppings like tender chicken chashu. The modern, minimalist decor and consistently high-quality bowls make Afuri a favorite among ramen enthusiasts.
Specialty: The Yuzu Shio Ramen, featuring a clear, citrus-infused salt broth, is light, aromatic, and packed with umami flavors.
Location: 1-1-7 Ebisu, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0013. A 5-minute walk from Ebisu Station on the JR Yamanote Line.
Local Tip: Try the Yuzu Tsukemen (dipping noodles) for a unique take on their signature flavors.
Rating: 4.7/5
4. Ramen Sugimoto – Kanda
Ramen Sugimoto is a hidden gem known for its innovative take on traditional ramen. The restaurant focuses on a refined chintan (clear) broth, offering both soy sauce and salt-based options. With house-made noodles and premium toppings, each bowl reflects the chef’s dedication to quality and balance.
Specialty: The Shio Chintan Ramen, featuring a light, clear broth infused with dashi, is topped with perfectly cooked pork slices, a soft-boiled egg, and green onions.
Location: 2-3-8 Kanda Awajicho, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 101-0063. A short walk from Kanda Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line.
Local Tip: Add the smoked chashu pork for an extra layer of flavor that takes the dish to the next level.
Rating: 4.7/5
5. Menya Itto – Shinagawa
Famed for its tsukemen (dipping noodles), Menya Itto serves thick, chewy noodles alongside a rich, umami-packed dipping sauce. The sauce, made from a blend of chicken, seafood, and pork, is thick and flavorful, perfectly coating the noodles with each dip.
Specialty: The Special Tsukemen features noodles served with a side of creamy dipping sauce, tender slices of pork, and a soft-boiled egg for a hearty, satisfying meal.
Location: 2-8-6 Higashi-Shinagawa, Shinagawa City, Tokyo 140-0002. A short walk from Shinagawa Seaside Station on the Rinkai Line.
Local Tip: Request the hot stone to keep your dipping sauce warm throughout the meal.
Rating: 4.8/5
6. Nagi Golden Gai – Shinjuku
Tucked away in the vibrant Golden Gai district, Nagi is famous for its unique niboshi (dried sardine) ramen. The bold, fishy flavor of the broth sets it apart from more traditional styles, making it a must-try for adventurous eaters. The cozy, narrow space adds to the charm, offering an authentic Tokyo ramen experience.
Specialty: The Niboshi Ramen, featuring a rich sardine-based broth, curly noodles, and a soft-boiled egg, is a bold and flavorful choice.
Location: 1-1-10 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0021. Located in the Golden Gai area, accessible from Shinjuku Station.
Local Tip: Visit late at night for a true Golden Gai experience and enjoy this ramen after exploring the district’s lively bars.
Rating: 4.6/5
7. Rokurinsha – Tokyo Station
Located in the bustling Ramen Street within Tokyo Station, Rokurinsha is best known for its legendary tsukemen. The noodles are thick and chewy, while the dipping sauce is a rich blend of pork and seafood flavors, creating the perfect balance of umami.
Specialty: The Special Tsukemen, served with thick noodles, a rich dipping sauce, and generous portions of pork and egg, is an iconic dish that lives up to its reputation.
Location: 1-9-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-0005. Found on Tokyo Station’s Ramen Street, easily accessible from multiple train lines.
Local Tip: Arrive early to avoid long lines, as this spot is extremely popular with locals and tourists alike.
Rating: 4.9/5
8. Kagari – Ginza
Kagari offers an upscale twist on traditional ramen, focusing on refined flavors and premium ingredients. Known for its tori paitan (chicken-based) broth, Kagari’s ramen is velvety and rich without being heavy. The restaurant’s intimate counter seating and minimalist decor create a sophisticated ambiance, making it a standout spot in Tokyo’s bustling Ginza district.
Specialty: The Tori Paitan Ramen, featuring a creamy chicken-based broth, handmade noodles, and tender chicken chashu, is elevated with toppings like truffle oil and seasonal vegetables.
Location: 4-4-1 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061. A short walk from Ginza Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line.
Local Tip: Arrive early, as Kagari’s reputation often means a queue, but the luxurious flavors are well worth the wait.
Rating: 4.8/5
9. Mutekiya – Ikebukuro
Mutekiya is a legendary ramen spot in Ikebukuro, famous for its rich tonkotsu (pork bone) broth and hearty portions. Popular with locals and tourists alike, the restaurant’s welcoming vibe and indulgent bowls make it a must-visit. Mutekiya is known for its attention to detail, from perfectly marinated eggs to tender pork belly toppings.
Specialty: The Honmaru Tonkotsu Ramen, with a creamy broth, thick noodles, and an abundance of flavorful toppings, offers a satisfying and comforting meal.
Location: 1-17-1 Minami-Ikebukuro, Toshima City, Tokyo 171-0022. A 5-minute walk from Ikebukuro Station’s East Exit.
Local Tip: Order the extra toppings set to fully enjoy the restaurant’s flavorful chashu, seasoned egg, and bamboo shoots.
Rating: 4.8/5
Tokyo’s ramen scene is a testament to the city’s culinary diversity and dedication to flavor. Whether you’re savoring the bold tonkotsu broth at Mutekiya, the delicate shoyu ramen at Tsuta, or the zesty yuzu ramen at Afuri, each bowl tells a unique story. From Michelin-starred elegance to hidden neighborhood gems, the best ramen in Tokyo caters to every taste and preference. As you slurp your way through the city, you’ll not only discover delicious flavors but also the passion and artistry that make Tokyo the ramen capital of the world
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