There are few things as deeply comforting as a steaming, fragrant bowl of ramen. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, a perfect remedy for a chilly day or a long week. But what is it that makes this dish so universally loved? It’s the harmony of its parts: the rich, soul-soothing broth simmered for hours, the perfectly chewy noodles, and the toppings that add layers of flavor and texture. This guide is a celebration of that comfort. We’ll explore the different styles that make this dish so versatile and show you what to look for in a truly great bowl of ramen & more. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the experience, get ready to deepen your appreciation for the ultimate comfort food.
Key Takeaways
- Start with the Broth: The key to finding your perfect ramen is understanding the four main styles: Shoyu (savory soy sauce), Miso (complex and hearty), Tonkotsu (rich and creamy pork bone), and Shio (light and salty). Knowing the difference helps you order with confidence.
- A Perfect Bowl is a Balance: The best ramen experiences depend on the harmony between three core elements. It’s all about the interplay between the rich, slow-simmered broth, the springy, perfectly cooked noodles, and the toppings that add flavor and texture.
- Upgrade Your Ramen Experience: Whether you’re dining out or staying in, a great bowl is within reach. Seek out dedicated shops for an authentic meal, or transform instant ramen at home by adding fresh toppings and using a quality broth.
Your Guide to the World of Ramen
If your only experience with ramen is the instant noodles from a college dorm room, you’re in for a wonderful surprise. Real, authentic ramen is a universe of flavor, a comforting art form in a bowl that has captured the hearts of food lovers everywhere. It’s more than just soup; it’s a carefully crafted meal where every single ingredient plays a starring role, from the springy noodles and rich broth to the perfectly prepared toppings.
At its core, ramen is a Japanese noodle dish, but that simple description doesn’t do it justice. There are countless variations across Japan, each with its own unique personality. The broth alone can be a light, salty shio; a savory, soy-sauce-based shoyu; a complex and fermented miso; or a rich, creamy pork-bone tonkotsu. This diversity is what makes exploring ramen so exciting. It’s a dish that has become a way for people to experience Japanese culture through food, with each bowl telling a story about its regional origins and the chef who made it.
A hearty bowl from a restaurant like ours is a complete, satisfying meal, a far cry from the quick-fix instant packets. While we love a good pantry staple, there’s no comparison to a slow-simmered broth and fresh ingredients. In the sections that follow, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to start your own ramen adventure, from the classic types to what makes a truly perfect bowl.
The Four Classic Types of Ramen
Walking into a ramen shop for the first time can feel a little overwhelming. With so many options on the menu, where do you even start? The secret is understanding the broth. The broth, or soup, is the heart and soul of every bowl, and most ramen falls into one of four classic categories: Shoyu, Miso, Tonkotsu, and Shio. Each one has a completely unique flavor profile, texture, and history. Think of them as the four pillars of the ramen world, the foundational styles that have inspired countless variations and regional specialties across Japan and right here in Nashville.
Learning the difference between them is the key to finding your perfect bowl. Are you in the mood for something light and salty, or rich and creamy? Something savory and complex, or a straightforward classic? Once you know the basics of these four styles, you can confidently order anywhere and even start experimenting with different toppings to create your ideal combination. It’s all about matching the broth to your craving. At Otaku Ramen, we celebrate all these traditions, and our menu is a great place to explore them. So, let’s break down what makes each of these foundational ramen types so special and help you find your new favorite.
Shoyu: The Soy Sauce Original
Shoyu is the quintessential classic ramen, the one many people picture first. Its name means “soy sauce,” which is the star ingredient of its tare, or seasoning base. This gives the broth its signature clear, brown color and a savory, umami-rich flavor that’s incredibly satisfying without being too heavy. Originating in Tokyo, shoyu ramen was one of the first styles to become popular and remains a beloved staple. It’s a versatile base that pairs well with a wide variety of toppings, from tender chashu pork to a perfectly soft-boiled egg. If you’re new to ramen, shoyu is a fantastic place to start.
Miso: Savory and Complex
If you’re looking for a bowl with a deep, complex, and robust flavor, miso ramen is for you. This style gets its character from miso, a fermented soybean paste that adds an incredible savory depth to the broth. The soup is typically opaque and hearty, perfect for a cold day. Originating from the northern island of Hokkaido, miso ramen is often served with toppings that can stand up to its bold flavor, like sweet corn, a pat of butter, and stir-fried vegetables. It’s a comforting and richly satisfying type of ramen that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Tonkotsu: Rich and Creamy
For the ultimate rich and creamy experience, nothing beats tonkotsu. This ramen is famous for its luxurious, milky-white broth. The magic comes from boiling pork bones for hours and hours until the collagen and fat break down, creating a silky, opaque soup with an intensely porky flavor. Hailing from Fukuoka in southern Japan, tonkotsu ramen is pure indulgence. It’s traditionally served with thin, straight noodles that cling to the rich broth, and classic toppings like melt-in-your-mouth chashu pork, crisp wood ear mushrooms, and sharp green onions to cut through the richness. It’s a truly decadent bowl.
Shio: Simple and Salty
Shio, meaning “salt,” is the oldest and most delicate of the four ramen types. Don’t let its simplicity fool you—this style is all about balance and nuance. The broth is light and clear, seasoned primarily with salt to allow the pure flavors of the base stock, often made from chicken or seafood, to shine through. Because the broth is so subtle, the quality of the noodles and toppings is incredibly important. A great shio ramen is a testament to the chef’s skill, offering a clean, crisp, and deeply flavorful experience that is both refreshing and comforting.
What Makes a Perfect Bowl of Ramen?
Ever wonder what transforms a simple bowl of noodles and broth into a soul-satisfying meal? A perfect bowl of ramen is a delicate balance of three key elements working in harmony. It’s an art form where every component, from the texture of the noodles to the richness of the broth and the final flourish of toppings, plays a vital role. Understanding these parts not only deepens your appreciation for the dish but also helps you craft or choose your ideal bowl. Let’s break down the anatomy of a perfect ramen experience.
The Noodles: Foundation of the Dish
The noodles are the backbone of any great ramen bowl. They’re much more than just a filler; their texture and flavor are fundamental to the entire dish. Traditionally made from wheat flour, salt, water, and a special alkaline mineral water called kansui, ramen noodles get their signature springy, chewy quality from this unique ingredient. While the components are simple, the craft of making them is anything but. At a dedicated shop, noodles are carefully prepared to complement the broth they’re served in, ensuring they have the perfect bite from the first slurp to the last. This dedication to the craft is a philosophy we cherish in our story.
The Broth: The Soul of the Bowl
If the noodles are the foundation, the broth is the soul. It’s what gives each bowl its unique personality and depth of flavor. A truly exceptional broth is the result of patience and precision, often simmered for hours—or even days—to extract every bit of flavor from ingredients like pork or chicken bones, kombu, and shiitake mushrooms. This slow cooking process creates a rich, complex base that provides not just incredible taste but also the protein that makes ramen a hearty meal. Whether it’s a creamy Tonkotsu or a savory Shoyu, the broth sets the stage for the entire experience. You can explore the different styles on our menu to find your favorite.
The Toppings: Make It Your Own
Toppings are where you get to add your personal touch, turning a great bowl of ramen into your perfect bowl. They add layers of texture, flavor, and visual appeal that complete the dish. Classic additions include tender slices of chashu pork, a perfectly jammy soft-boiled egg (ajitama), crisp bamboo shoots (menma), and fresh green onions. But the fun doesn’t stop there. At Otaku Ramen, we believe in making your bowl exactly how you like it, offering a wide range of extras. Feeling adventurous? Try adding some spicy kimchi, savory bacon, or corn for a touch of sweetness. Don’t be afraid to experiment—the best combination is the one you love most. Ready to build your bowl?
The Best Instant Ramen for Your Pantry
Let’s be real: sometimes you need a quick, comforting meal without leaving the house. Having a stash of instant ramen in your pantry is a lifesaver on busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. But not all instant noodles are created equal. While those styrofoam cups got many of us through college, our palates have grown up a bit since then. The world of instant ramen is vast, with options ranging from classic budget-friendly packs to gourmet, air-dried noodles and spicy flavor bombs.
When you’re stocking up, think about what you’re looking for. Do you want a fiery kick to wake up your taste buds? A rich, savory chicken broth that feels like a hug in a bowl? Or maybe you’re looking for something a little healthier, without the deep-fried noodles. We’ve rounded up some of the best options out there to help you build the ultimate ramen pantry. From cult favorites to subscription boxes, there’s a perfect instant ramen for every craving. And for those times when you want a true restaurant-quality experience at home, we have a solution for that, too.
Otaku Ramen’s At-Home Kits
For those moments when you crave the real deal but want to stay in your PJs, our at-home kits are the answer. Unlike the preservative-filled seasoning packets in most instant ramen, our kits give you the soul of our shop in a box. We pack up our rich, slow-simmered broth, perfectly chewy noodles, and all the fixings you need to recreate the Otaku experience in your own kitchen. It’s a complete, satisfying meal that brings you the complex flavors we spend hours developing. You can order a kit online and have it ready for your next ramen night. It’s the best way to get authentic, Nashville-made ramen without stepping out the door.
Tapatio Chicken Ramen Noodle Soup
If you like a little heat, this one’s for you. Tapatio Chicken Ramen brings a delightful zing that sets it apart from the crowd. The seasoning packet delivers a solid chicken flavor with that familiar, tangy kick of Tapatio hot sauce that builds with every bite. It’s not overwhelmingly spicy, but it has enough personality to keep things interesting. According to a ramen taste test, it has one of the best-tasting broths out there. It’s a fantastic choice when you want a simple, flavorful bowl with a little extra kick.
Sapporo Ichiban Chicken Ramen
A true classic for a reason, Sapporo Ichiban is a go-to for its robust and comforting chicken flavor. The broth is savory and rich, tasting more like real chicken stock than many of its competitors. The noodles are another highlight—they cook up to be wonderfully fluffy and have a great texture that holds up well in the hot broth. It’s a simple, no-fuss ramen that consistently delivers on taste and quality. If you’re looking for a dependable and delicious pantry staple that the whole family will love, you can’t go wrong with this one.
Nissin Hot & Spicy Chicken Noodles
For those who prefer a slow-building heat, Nissin’s Hot & Spicy Chicken is an excellent choice. This isn’t an instant, mouth-scorching spice; instead, the heat gently builds as you eat, allowing you to appreciate the other flavors. What makes this ramen stand out is the inclusion of a chili oil packet and dried veggies, which add a deeper, more complex flavor and a bit of texture to the bowl. It’s a step up from your basic spicy ramen and offers a more layered and satisfying experience for anyone who enjoys a little fire in their noodles.
Maruchan Instant Lunch Chicken Flavor
You know it, you’ve probably eaten it, and it’s a pantry icon for a reason. Maruchan is the quintessential instant ramen that offers convenience and comfort in a cup. While it may be simple, it’s a reliable and incredibly affordable option for a quick meal. A typical package of instant ramen like Maruchan contains around 380 to 450 calories, making it a filling snack or light meal. It’s the perfect blank canvas for adding your own toppings like a soft-boiled egg, some green onions, or a slice of leftover chicken to make it your own.
Project Ramen
If you love trying new things and want to keep your pantry stocked with interesting options, a subscription service like Project Ramen is a fantastic idea. They curate boxes of unique and hard-to-find instant ramen from Japan and deliver them right to your door. You can subscribe to their service and get an auto-shipment every 45 days, ensuring you never run out of new noodles to try. It’s a fun way to explore the diverse world of instant ramen beyond what you can find at your local grocery store, and you even get a discount on every order.
A-Sha Foods
A-Sha Foods offers a different take on instant noodles, and it’s one worth trying. Instead of being deep-fried, their noodles are air-dried, which gives them a chewier, more satisfying texture that’s closer to fresh ramen. They are known for their simple, high-quality ingredients and bold flavors. A-Sha offers a wide range of options, from savory original flavors to fiery ghost pepper spice levels. You can explore their variety packs to find your favorite. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a slightly healthier but still incredibly convenient ramen option.
Public Goods
For the health-conscious ramen lover, Public Goods offers a product that strips ramen down to its simple, natural essentials. Their noodles are made with a unique technique that avoids deep-frying, and the ingredient list is refreshingly short and easy to understand. The flavor is clean and savory, providing a perfect base for you to customize with your favorite fresh toppings. If you’re looking for a guilt-free way to enjoy a quick bowl of noodles, the Public Goods ramen is an excellent choice that doesn’t compromise on comfort or convenience.
How to Upgrade Your Instant Ramen
We all have a stash of instant ramen in the pantry for those days when we need a quick, comforting meal. But a quick meal doesn’t have to be a basic one. With just a few simple tweaks, you can transform that humble packet of noodles into a dish that feels thoughtful and deeply satisfying. Forget what you think you know about instant ramen—these tips will help you create a bowl that’s genuinely delicious. It’s all about using the instant noodles as a canvas and getting creative with the details.
Add Creative Toppings
The easiest way to make your instant ramen feel special is by adding toppings. This is where you can really let your personality shine. A soft-boiled egg, crispy bacon, fresh green onions, and a spoonful of kimchi are classic additions that add layers of flavor and texture, turning a simple bowl into a more filling meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, don’t be afraid to experiment. A slice of American cheese melted into the hot broth creates a creamy base, while pan-fried spam adds a savory twist. You can find even more creative combinations from fellow ramen lovers online.
Instantly Improve Your Broth
The broth is the heart of any ramen, and while the included seasoning packet is convenient, it can be significantly improved. For a richer flavor, try using a high-quality broth instead. Using a thoughtfully prepared broth from a local ramen shop like ours is a game-changer, providing a more satisfying flavor profile without the preservatives in instant packets. You can also enhance store-bought broth with additions like miso paste, soy sauce, or a dash of sesame oil. This single step will make the biggest difference in your finished bowl.
Get the Perfect Noodle Texture
Achieving the ideal noodle texture is crucial for a great ramen experience. Nobody wants mushy, overcooked noodles. While the package instructions are a good starting point, the secret is to cook them slightly less than you think. Remember, they will continue to cook in the hot broth even after you take them off the heat. For a firmer, chewier bite, try boiling them for a minute less than the package suggests. Don’t be afraid to experiment to find your preferred level of doneness. This small adjustment can significantly enhance your enjoyment of the dish.
Where to Find the Best Ramen in Nashville
Nashville’s food scene is incredible, and when a craving for a rich, steaming bowl of ramen hits, you have some fantastic options. Finding your personal favorite spot is part of the fun, and it often comes down to the details: the springiness of the noodles, the depth of the broth, and the vibe of the restaurant itself. Whether you’re a seasoned ramen connoisseur or just starting your noodle journey, Music City has a bowl with your name on it.
Your quest for the perfect ramen should be an adventure. As you explore, you’ll find that the best ramen restaurants are the ones that introduce you to Japanese culture through their food. It’s about more than just a meal; it’s an experience. So, where should you start your search for the best ramen in Nashville? Right here.
Otaku Ramen: Nashville’s Original Ramen Shop
As Nashville’s original ramen shop, we’ve made it our mission to perfect this classic comfort food. We believe in serving happiness one bowl at a time, which is why we dedicated ourselves to mastering the art of ramen making and sharing its rich history and tradition with our community. Our menu features a variety of styles, each crafted to transport you to umami heaven. From the spicy kick of our Tennessee Tonkotsu to the light, refreshing Shoyu, there’s a bowl for every palate.
We’re proud to offer generous portions, flavorful broths, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. Our friendly staff is always here to guide you through the menu and help you find your perfect match. Whether you’re dining with family or catching up with friends, you can always count on a memorable meal. Stop by one of our Nashville locations and see for yourself why we’re a must-visit for local ramen lovers.
Other Local Favorites
While we’d love to be your one and only, we know that exploring the local food scene is part of what makes living in Nashville so great. The search for amazing ramen can be a delicious adventure, and every shop has its own unique personality. When you’re trying a new place, think about what makes a bowl of ramen truly special to you.
Consider all the elements that create a great dining experience: the ambiance, the service, the quality of the ingredients, and the variety on the menu. Does the broth have a deep, complex flavor? Are the noodles cooked to perfection? Do the toppings add that perfect final touch? Finding a spot that checks all your boxes is a rewarding feeling. As you continue your ramen quest, you’ll develop an even deeper appreciation for the craft that goes into every single bowl.
More Japanese Noodles You’ll Love
While ramen might be the star of the show, the world of Japanese noodles is full of incredible variety. If you’re ready to expand your noodle horizons, there are a few other types that deserve a spot in your culinary rotation. Each one offers a completely different texture and flavor experience, from thick and chewy to earthy and nutty. Think of this as your next step in becoming a true noodle aficionado.
Udon: Thick and Chewy
If you love a noodle with some serious bite, udon is for you. These thick, soft, and chewy noodles are made from wheat flour and are incredibly satisfying. Their substantial texture makes them perfect for soaking up rich, savory broths in noodle soups. They are also a fantastic choice for stir-fries, as their smooth surface grabs onto sauces beautifully. You can find some amazing yaki udon recipes that show just how versatile these noodles can be. Whether served hot in a comforting soup or chilled in a summer dish, udon’s delightful chewiness is always a treat.
Soba: Earthy and Nutty
Made from buckwheat flour, soba noodles have a distinctively earthy and nutty flavor that sets them apart. They are much thinner than udon, similar in size to spaghetti, and have a firm texture. Soba is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. One of the most classic preparations is Zaru Soba, where the noodles are served cold with a flavorful dipping sauce, making it a perfect meal for a warm day. You can also find soba served hot in a delicate, clear broth. The unique taste of buckwheat makes soba a sophisticated and delicious alternative to wheat-based noodles.
Tsukemen: The Art of Dipping
Tsukemen, or “dipping ramen,” offers a fun and interactive way to enjoy noodles. Instead of being served in a single bowl, the noodles and broth are presented separately. The broth is much thicker and more concentrated than a typical ramen broth, acting more like a rich sauce. You simply take a portion of noodles and dip them into the broth before each bite. This method keeps the noodles perfectly firm and allows you to control the flavor intensity. It’s a different kind of ramen experience that highlights the texture of the noodles and the deep flavor of the soup, as explained in this guide to ramen styles.
Is Ramen Healthy? A Look at the Nutrition
Let’s get right to it: is ramen a healthy meal? The honest answer is that it depends entirely on the bowl you’re eating. Ramen can be a wonderfully balanced, nourishing meal, but it can also be a rich, high-calorie indulgence. The key difference often comes down to the quality of the ingredients and how the bowl is prepared. A packet of instant noodles loaded with sodium and preservatives is a world away from a thoughtfully crafted bowl made with slow-simmered bone broth, fresh noodles, and quality toppings.
At its best, ramen offers a complete meal with protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables all in one place. The broth can be a source of minerals, and toppings like eggs and pork provide protein to keep you full. When you eat at a place dedicated to the craft, like Otaku Ramen, you’re getting a meal made with intention. Our story is built on mastering the art of ramen, which includes using quality ingredients to create a truly satisfying experience.
What’s in a Bowl of Ramen?
A typical bowl of restaurant ramen is a complex dish with several key components. The broth provides the foundational flavor, the noodles offer carbohydrates for energy, and the toppings add protein, texture, and nutrients. Because of this, the nutritional profile can vary quite a bit. A rich, creamy Tonkotsu ramen might have over 900 calories, while a lighter Shio or Shoyu bowl could be closer to 600. You can explore the different styles and ingredients on our menu to see what goes into each one. In contrast, a standard package of instant ramen usually contains around 380 to 450 calories, but it lacks the fresh protein and vegetables that make a restaurant bowl a more complete meal.
How to Make Ramen a Healthier Meal
If you want to enjoy ramen as part of a balanced diet, you have plenty of options. The easiest step is to choose a high-quality, fresh bowl over an instant packet. A thoughtfully prepared bowl from a restaurant provides a much more satisfying and nutritionally diverse meal. When you order, you can customize your bowl to fit your goals. Ask for extra vegetables like bok choy or corn, choose a leaner protein, or simply decide not to drink every last drop of the savory broth if you’re mindful of your sodium intake. When making ramen at home, you can apply the same logic by adding fresh greens, a soft-boiled egg, and lean protein to make your meal more nutritious.
The Culture Behind the Bowl
Ramen is so much more than a meal in a bowl. It’s a cultural touchstone, a comfort food that brings people together, and a star of the screen. The experience of enjoying ramen is deeply woven into Japanese culture and has captured the hearts of food lovers around the world. Understanding its cultural significance makes every slurp of savory broth and every bite of chewy noodle even more satisfying. It’s not just about eating; it’s about participating in a tradition that’s both deeply personal and wonderfully communal.
Ramen as a Social Experience
There’s a special kind of magic in gathering with friends at a ramen shop. It’s a shared experience, whether you’re catching up over steaming bowls on a chilly evening or embarking on a quest to find the absolute best ramen in town. In Japan, slurping your noodles isn’t just acceptable—it’s a sign that you’re thoroughly enjoying your meal. This focus on pure enjoyment makes ramen a perfect social food. At Otaku, our menu is designed for this kind of exploration, with everything from rich and spicy miso to a classic, savory shoyu. It gives you and your friends a chance to compare notes and find your personal favorites, turning a simple dinner into a memorable event.
Ramen in Movies and Media
If you’ve ever watched a Japanese movie or anime, you’ve likely seen a character’s face light up at the sight of a perfect bowl of ramen. From the film Tampopo to the beloved anime Naruto, ramen is often portrayed as the ultimate comfort food—a reward after a long day or a symbol of friendship and care. This on-screen presence has played a huge role in ramen’s global journey, introducing its comforting appeal to new audiences everywhere. As ramen continues to be reinvented across the globe, its core cultural identity as a source of warmth and connection remains. When you sit down to a bowl, you’re not just eating; you’re taking part in a story that’s been told and retold across cultures.
Enhance Your Ramen Experience
Enjoying ramen is about more than just the noodles and broth; it’s a full sensory experience. From the moment you walk into a shop to the last sip of your drink, every detail matters. If you’re looking to take your love for ramen to the next level, there are a few simple ways to make each bowl even more memorable. Think about the atmosphere of the restaurant, the deals you can find for your at-home cravings, and the perfect drink to complement your meal. These small considerations can transform a simple dinner into a truly special occasion, whether you’re dining out or cozying up on the couch.
Find Unique Dining Experiences
The best ramen shops offer more than just a great meal—they provide an entire vibe. The ambiance, service, and menu variety all come together to create a memorable outing. A truly great spot makes you feel transported, whether it’s a bustling shop in East Nashville or a cozy corner in the Gulch. At Otaku Ramen, we focus on crafting that perfect atmosphere at each of our locations. We believe a perfect bowl of ramen deserves a perfect setting. Our menu is designed to be an adventure in itself, with meticulously crafted bowls like our rich Tennessee Tonkotsu or savory Spicy Miso that deliver pure umami heaven with every spoonful.
Look for Ramen Subscriptions and Deals
For those times you want restaurant-quality ramen at home, there are more options than ever. Some companies even offer ramen subscription boxes, delivering unique noodle varieties right to your door. It’s a fun way to explore new flavors without leaving the house. While we pour our energy into the in-shop experience, we make it easy to get your fix at home. Keep an eye on our social channels for special announcements and deals. And when the craving strikes, you can always use our online ordering system for a quick and delicious meal. It’s the most direct way to bring a taste of Otaku Ramen into your own kitchen.
Pair Your Ramen with the Perfect Drink
The right beverage can completely change your ramen experience, balancing the rich, savory flavors of the broth. A crisp beer, a smooth sake, or a refreshing cocktail can cut through the richness of a tonkotsu or complement the spice of a tantanmen. We’ve put a lot of thought into our drink menu to give you the best possible pairings. You can go classic with a cold Kirin Ichiban or a curated sake, or try something new like a whiskey highball or one of our batch cocktails. It’s all about finding that perfect combination that makes the flavors in your bowl sing.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’m a total ramen beginner. Which type should I try first? If you’re just starting your ramen adventure, Shoyu is a fantastic entry point. It’s the classic Tokyo-style ramen with a clear, savory broth made with soy sauce. It’s incredibly flavorful without being as rich or heavy as something like Tonkotsu, which gives you a great baseline for what traditional ramen tastes like. It’s a true crowd-pleaser and pairs well with almost any topping.
What’s the biggest difference between your ramen and the instant kind? The main difference comes down to the broth and the noodles. Our broth is slow-simmered for hours using real bones and quality ingredients to build a deep, complex flavor profile. Instant ramen relies on a powdered seasoning packet. Likewise, our noodles are fresh and crafted to have the perfect chewy, springy texture, which is a world away from the fried, dehydrated noodles found in instant packs.
I don’t eat pork. Are there good ramen options for me? Absolutely. While pork-based Tonkotsu is very popular, many ramen styles are made with chicken, seafood, or vegetable-based broths. Shio and Shoyu ramen are often made with a chicken base, and many shops, including ours, offer delicious vegetarian or vegan options built around a rich miso or vegetable broth. You can always find a satisfying bowl without pork.
Is it really okay to slurp my noodles at a restaurant? Yes, you should absolutely slurp your noodles! In Japanese culture, slurping is considered a compliment to the chef. It shows that you’re thoroughly enjoying your meal and can’t wait to get the next bite. It also helps cool down the hot noodles as you eat them and enhances the flavor. So go ahead and enjoy your bowl the traditional way.
What’s the best drink to pair with my ramen? The right drink can really complete the meal. A crisp, light beer like a Japanese lager is a classic choice because it cuts through the richness of the broth. Sake is another fantastic option that complements the savory flavors. If you’re not drinking alcohol, a simple iced tea or a sparkling water works wonderfully to cleanse your palate between bites.