Ramen is a classic Japanese dish that has become increasingly popular in recent years.
And for good reason – there's nothing quite like a steaming bowl of noodles in a flavorful broth. But where can you find the best ramen in Chicago?
There are a plethora of ramen restaurants in the Windy City, each with their own unique take on this beloved dish.
From traditional tonkotsu ramen to inventive fusion bowls, there's something for every taste bud.
Whether you're a ramen aficionado or a newcomer to the scene, Chicago has a ramen spot for you. So, let's dive into the best ramen restaurants the city has to offer.
From trendy hotspots to hidden gems, we'll explore what makes each spot stand out and why it's worth a visit. Get ready to slurp your way through the best ramen in Chicago!
1. Ramen Wasabi
Ramen Wasabi is a modern Japanese restaurant that serves a variety of Japanese street fare with a full bar.
Their ramen is a must-try with delicious, flavorful broth and noodles with great texture.
The pork belly is a highlight of the dish, and the appetizers are also great. The atmosphere is minimalist and modern, with a community table for solo diners or groups.
The service is fast and professional, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or dinner before a show.
2. Strings Ramen Shop
Strings Ramen Shop offers a delicious and authentic ramen experience.
Their menu features a variety of soup options, rice bowls, and snacks, all served in a stylish and low-key atmosphere.
The service is quick and friendly, and the portions are just right.
Whether you're a ramen enthusiast or a first-timer, Strings Ramen Shop is a must-visit for anyone looking for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
3. Oiistar
Oiistar is a must-visit for ramen lovers. The unique broth and perfectly made noodles make for a delicious meal.
The atmosphere is cozy and modern, and the service is fast and friendly.
The menu offers a variety of options, including gluten-free and vegetarian options. Prices are on the higher end, but worth it for the quality of food.
Don't miss out on this hip and minimalist spot for some amazing Japanese cuisine.
4. Blowfish Sushi & Ramen
Blowfish Sushi & Ramen is a creative Asian-fusion restaurant that offers a variety of flavorful ramen dishes and sushi rolls.
The restaurant has a modern and minimalist decor that creates a trendy and intimate atmosphere. The staff is friendly and professional, providing excellent service to customers.
Blowfish Sushi & Ramen offers vegetarian options and separates the broth from the ingredients for delivery orders.
The food is reasonably priced and well-prepared, making it a great value for customers. If you're looking for a delicious and unique dining experience, Blowfish Sushi & Ramen is a great option.
5. High Five Ramen
High Five Ramen is a basement restaurant that serves updated versions of ramen. They have a small menu but enough selection.
The signature ramen has a unique smoky flavor that is worth trying. The staff is knowledgeable and has great recommendations. The frozen cocktails are strong and come in a cute skull glass.
The vibe of the place is amazing, but the seating is limited. The wait times can vary, so it's recommended to come early and put your name on the waitlist.
The service is good, and the staff is accommodating to dietary restrictions. The overall experience is decent and worth visiting again.
6. Ramen Takeya
Ramen Takeya is a hip Japanese joint that offers ramen, small plates, and cocktails. The restaurant has a low-lit space with wood tables that create a cozy ambience.
Their specialty is a chicken-focused broth, but they also have multiple delicious options.
The pork belly char siu bun is a must-try, and the miso bold & spicy ramen is a fan favorite. The staff is friendly and accommodating, and the service is excellent.
The restaurant can get busy, but it's worth the wait. Ramen Takeya is a great spot for a casual night out with friends or a romantic dinner.
7. DaiFuku Ramen
DaiFuku Ramen is a great spot for authentic Japanese ramen in the city.
Their Spicy Garlic broth is a popular choice that they execute well. They also offer other standard broths and a unique Curry option.
The pork in their cha shu Don has a nice char flavor. The service is friendly and attentive, with constant water refills.
DaiFuku Ramen is definitely worth a visit for dinner.
8. Strings Ramen Shop Hyde Park
Strings Ramen Shop Hyde Park is a must-visit for ramen lovers. The restaurant offers a variety of ramen options with different levels of spiciness, as well as rice bowls and appetizers.
The food is delicious, with perfectly cooked noodles and flavorful broth. The pork belly is a standout dish.
The ambiance is great and the staff is friendly and helpful. The restaurant follows Covid-19 protocols, making dining comfortable and safe.
The prices are reasonable for the portions and quality of food. Strings Ramen Shop Hyde Park is definitely worth a visit for anyone in search of amazing ramen.
9. Kameya Ramen & Sushi
Kameya Ramen & Sushi is a small Japanese eatery that serves up delicious ramen bowls and sushi rolls.
The staff is friendly and the service is quick. The menu offers a variety of options, including chicken katsu ramen and beef ramen.
The pork belly bun is a must-try appetizer. The broth is flavorful and the noodles are cooked perfectly.
BYOB is also available. If you're looking for a tasty and affordable meal, Kameya Ramen & Sushi is definitely worth a visit.
10. E Ramen
E Ramen is a cozy Japanese restaurant that serves classic Japanese fare.
They offer a variety of ramen bowls, sushi rolls, and rice dishes that are flavorful and reasonably priced.
The staff is friendly and provides excellent service. The restaurant is compact, but the atmosphere is warm and inviting.
If you're looking for a delicious bowl of ramen or some tasty sushi rolls, E Ramen is definitely worth a visit.
11. Gyuro Ramen
Gyuro Ramen is a must-visit for anyone looking for an authentic Japanese ramen experience.
The premium beef ramen is a standout dish, with high-quality meat and a rich, savory broth. Vegetarian options are also available.
The atmosphere is cool and welcoming, with staff greeting customers with a friendly "Irasshaimase." The restaurant can get busy, so be prepared for a possible wait.
Prices are on the higher side, but the quality of the food and service make it worth it. Highly recommended for ramen lovers.
12. Menya Goku
Menya Goku is a cozy ramen spot with a vegan bowl. The staff is attentive and the food comes out pretty quickly. The ramen is clean, refined, and balanced but a little pricey.
It's a great date night spot, and perfect for parties of less than 4. The Clovers Club is a refreshing drink worth trying.
The restaurant has a written waitlist and waiters will call your phone when your table is ready.
The Tonkotsu Ramen and calamari are absolutely delicious, and the Goku Tonkatsu Ramen and Kakuni bun are lifechanging. Menya Goku is a great place for tantanmen and definitely worth a visit.
13. Tamashii Ramen
Tamashii Ramen is a hidden gem that serves some of the best ramen in the city.
The miso ramen has an excellent broth, and the noodles have a perfect texture. The menu offers a wide range of options, including build-your-own ramen.
The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere with both table and counter seating.
Prices are reasonable, and service is on point. Highly recommend this spot for all ramen lovers.
14. Monster Ramen
If you're a fan of beef-based ramen, then Monster Ramen is a must-visit.
Their rich and intense broth is paired with fresh ingredients and homemade noodles, making for a delicious and flavorful bowl of ramen.
The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, and the cozy atmosphere adds to the overall experience.
While they don't currently serve alcohol, the ramen is the star of the show here. If you're in the mood for some amazing ramen, then Monster Ramen won't disappoint.
15. Kameya Sushi
Kameya Sushi is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Japanese cuisine.
Their ramen is the star of the menu, with rich, flavorful broth and perfectly cooked ingredients. The sushi is also top-notch, with fresh fish and creative rolls.
The staff is friendly and attentive, making for a great dining experience.
The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, perfect for a date night or casual dinner with friends. Don't miss out on this gem of a restaurant.
16. RAKKAN Ramen
RAKKAN Ramen is a must-visit Japanese restaurant for ramen lovers. The restaurant offers a variety of delicious ramen flavors and vegan options.
The spicy creamy ramen is a definite must-try, bursting with rich flavors and well-balanced saltiness.
The pork is torched to perfection, adding a great touch to the dish. The hot Brussels sprout salad is the perfect side to go with your ramen and drinks.
The staff is friendly, and the ambiance is great. RAKKAN Ramen is a new addition to the uptown Chicago food scene, and it's definitely worth a visit.
17. Sumu Tokyo Ramen & Sushi
Sumu Tokyo Ramen & Sushi serves up delicious Japanese specialties in a cozy ambiance.
Their homemade ramen noodles are a standout, with the Shoyu ramen being a particular highlight.
The meat is tender and savory, and the noodles are always fresh. The sushi menu is also extensive and offers a great selection of rolls.
Prices are reasonable, and the staff is friendly. Highly recommended for those seeking authentic Japanese cuisine.
18. Musashiya Ramen
Musashiya Ramen is a Japanese restaurant that serves up delicious and authentic ramen dishes.
Their customizable menu allows customers to choose their soup base, noodle firmness, and other toppings, making each bowl unique.
The staff is friendly and provides quick service, even during busy times. The prices are a bit high, but the quality of the food justifies it.
Musashiya Ramen is a great spot for a satisfying and authentic ramen experience.
