New York City is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. One dish that has gained immense popularity in recent years is Ramen, a Japanese noodle soup dish that has taken the city by storm. From savory broths to perfectly cooked noodles and a variety of toppings, Ramen has become a staple in the city’s culinary scene. In this blog article, we will explore the best Ramen places in New York, from traditional to modern interpretations, and everything in between. Get ready to slurp your way through the best Ramen spots in the city!
Bua Thai Ramen & Robata Grill
Address: 1611 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10028
Phone: +1 (212) 879-7999
Details: $$, Thai restaurant
Bua Thai Ramen & Robata Grill is a unique and exciting restaurant that offers a fusion of Thai and Japanese cuisine. The atmosphere is lively and vibrant, and the outdoor dining area is beautifully decorated. The stylish and friendly staff are knowledgeable about the menu and provide excellent recommendations. The drinks are creative and visually stunning, with the pineapple drink being a must-try.
The menu offers a wide range of options, from crispy fried wontons to Phuket noodle soup. The Thai Phuket Ramen Noodle Soup is a standout dish, with al-dente ramen and a flavorful broth that is addictive. The lobster bun is also a must-try, with tender and juicy lobster served in a soft bun.
Bua Thai Ramen & Robata Grill offers an excellent dining experience, perfect for a date night or dinner with friends. The restaurant caters to vegans, vegetarians, and pescatarians, making it an inclusive and diverse dining experience. The food is authentic and well-prepared, and the service is fast and friendly. Overall, Bua Thai Ramen & Robata Grill is an excellent choice for those looking for a unique and delicious fusion of Thai and Japanese cuisine.
Mei Jin Ramen
Address: 1574 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10028
Phone: +1 (212) 327-2800
Details: $$, Ramen restaurant
Mei Jin Ramen is an exceptional restaurant that serves some of the best ramen dishes in the city. The staff is friendly and attentive, providing excellent recommendations and service. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, making it the perfect place for a casual dinner or a night out with friends.
The menu offers a wide range of options, from crispy chicken curry to soy chicken ramen. The pork buns are a standout dish, with amazing flavor and texture. The ramen dishes are exceptional, with the chili chicken and Mei Jin Ramen being highly recommended. The cocktails are also a must-try, with the lychee mojito and sake being standout options.
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Mei Jin Ramen is a hidden gem that is worth going out of your way for. The restaurant has a nice, quiet and clean atmosphere, and the bathrooms are beautiful too. The crispy rice and pork toast are phenomenal appetizers that complement the ramen dishes perfectly. Overall, Mei Jin Ramen is an excellent choice for those looking for a cozy atmosphere, delicious food, and exceptional service.
Ivan Ramen
Address: 25 Clinton St, New York, NY 10002
Phone: +1 (646) 678-3859
Details: $$, Ramen restaurant
Ivan Ramen is a high-end Japanese-Jewish Ramen palace that promises an unforgettable dining experience. The atmosphere is cool and buzzing, with an open kitchen, friendly staff, and a small terrace for those who enjoy the sun. The menu offers a vast selection of starters, such as the spicy Kyuri pickles, and main dishes like the chicken ramen and the Spicy Red Chili, that provide an explosion of flavor and taste.
The restaurant is perfect for families and friends alike, with efficient and friendly service and authentic food that exceeds expectations. The pork buns, Japanese fried chicken, and yuzu cheesecake are outstanding, while the ramen dishes are, without a doubt, the best in the city. The broth is perfect, and the flavors are spot on, leaving a warm and satisfying feeling.
Ivan Ramen is a must-visit restaurant that will leave a lasting impression. The portions are huge, and the value for money is great, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a delicious and authentic meal. The restaurant is always busy, and there may be a wait time, but it is well worth it. Whether you’re craving Ramen for lunch or dinner, Ivan Ramen is the place to be.
Momosan Ramen & Sake
Address: 342 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10016
Phone: +1 (646) 201-5529
Details: $$, Ramen restaurant
Momosan Ramen & Sake is a must-visit restaurant in New York City for those looking for authentic and delicious Japanese cuisine. The restaurant offers a cozy and relaxing atmosphere that is perfect for a quick bite or a hangout with friends. The staff is friendly and attentive, providing fast and efficient service that makes the dining experience even more enjoyable.
The menu is diverse and offers something for everyone, whether you’re in the mood for ramen, sushi, or small plates like bao or gyoza. The portions are large and reasonably priced, making it an excellent value for money. The ramen is a standout dish, with the Spicy Tonkotsu Ramen being a fan favorite. The curry ramen is also highly recommended, with rich and flavorful broth that is a perfect comfort food during the colder months.
The restaurant has taken strict measures to ensure the safety and well-being of its customers during the pandemic, making it a reliable choice for those looking for a safe and enjoyable dining experience. The restaurant does not take reservations, but the wait is well worth it. Overall, Momosan Ramen & Sake is a gem in the city that provides an unforgettable dining experience with exceptional food, service, and atmosphere.
Izakaya MEW
Address: 53 W 35th St, New York, NY 10001
Phone: +1 (646) 368-9459
Details: $$, Izakaya restaurant
Izakaya MEW is a hidden gem located in the heart of New York City, loved by both locals and visitors alike. The restaurant’s authentic Japanese cuisine, friendly staff, and cozy atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a delicious and authentic dining experience. The menu is extensive and offers a wide range of dishes to choose from, with the sushi, ramen, and grilled pork ribs being particular favorites.
The restaurant is located in the basement, and its nondescript signage can make it a little tricky to find. However, once inside, the charming and well-decorated interior provides a warm and inviting ambiance. The staff is efficient and attentive, providing quick service and ensuring that guests have an enjoyable dining experience. The prices are very reasonable for Midtown, making it an excellent value for money.
The restaurant’s popularity can make it quite busy, so it’s recommended to arrive early or make a reservation. The food quality is exceptional, with fresh ingredients and well-cooked dishes that transport diners to Japan. The modern-style sushi is particularly noteworthy, with a great image and a range of options to suit everyone’s taste. The restaurant also offers a wide range of alcoholic beverages, including sake, beer, and wine, to accompany the meal. Overall, Izakaya MEW is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for delicious and authentic Japanese cuisine in New York City.
Hakata Ippudo NY
Address: 65 4th Ave, New York, NY 10003
Phone: +1 (212) 388-0088
Details: $$, Ramen restaurant
Hakata Ippudo NY is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for delicious and authentic Japanese cuisine in New York City. The restaurant is known for its excellent ramen dishes and a wide range of small appetizers that are professionally done for guests right in the open in the back of the restaurant. The staff is super friendly, and upon entering the restaurant, guests are greeted with a warm welcome.
The restaurant’s ambiance is fantastic, with a vibrant and energetic atmosphere that gives off the feeling of a metropolitan Ramen fix. The restaurant can get crowded quickly, so it’s recommended to arrive early to get a table. The menu selection is extensive, with different varieties of soup bases, noodles, and classic to modern ramen dishes. The buns and peppers are great appetizers, and the green salad with amazing dressing is a standout.
The restaurant is posh, and the food is really great. The service is prompt and courteous, with a staff that goes above and beyond to make sure guests get their drinks and appetizers quickly. The wait time can be over an hour at times, but it’s worth the wait. The prices are reasonable, making it an excellent value for money. Overall, Hakata Ippudo NY is one of the best ramen places in the city. It’s a favorite spot for authentic Asian food, particularly the Ramen and Buns, at a reasonable price, with a great atmosphere that’s both lively and fun.
Franchia Vegan Cafe
Address: 12 Park Ave, New York, NY 10016
Phone: +1 (212) 213-1001
Details: $$, Vegan restaurant
Franchia Vegan Cafe is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for delicious Asian fusion cuisine, with a Korean twist, in New York City. The restaurant’s menu is varied, with many vegan options to choose from, and even non-veg members of your party will enjoy it. The staff is attentive and friendly, making for an excellent experience overall.
The restaurant’s atmosphere is lovely, with a simple, serene decor and nice seating outside in Park Avenue. The staff is prompt with service, and the kitchen is fast. The Stone Bowl meals are a standout, with rices and veggies that stay super hot and crisp up from contact with the furnace of a stone bowl. The soy-ginger sauce is the perfect accompaniment. The scallion cakes are the best to be found anywhere, savory with crispy outsides and tender insides. The stuffed mushrooms are divine, and the Peking buns are a standout.
The dessert menu is varied, and the flourless chocolate cake is heavy with almond and dark chocolate richness. The sorbet is delicious, and the black sweet rice and coconut pudding is an awesome dessert. The loose leaf Jasmine Tea is served in cups, and the hot water is added per your request. Overall, Franchia Vegan Cafe is an excellent value for money, with great menu options, unique atmosphere, and amazing food that will keep you coming back for more.
Zen Ramen & Sushi
Address: 150 W 36th St., New York, NY 10018
Phone: +1 (646) 875-7509
Details: $$, Ramen restaurant
Zen Ramen & Sushi is a small but fantastic eatery in Midtown New York that specializes in sushi and ramen. The restaurant’s extensive menu is packed with high-quality, fresh ingredients, and their food is delicious. The staff is courteous and helpful, and the service is quick, making for an enjoyable experience overall.
The atmosphere of the restaurant is cozy and somewhat loud, but the plastic booth sectioning makes it a safe dining option during the pandemic. The staff is fast (bordering on brusque) but still courteous, and they are very accommodating. Jimmy, in particular, is an awesome bartender who takes care of his customers during happy hour from 4-8 pm, which is a really great deal, costing less than $20 per person all in.
The waiters and waitresses are very attentive, and they get you whatever you need. They are also experts at explaining the menu, making it easy to order. The vegetable ramen and the beef ramen are both highly recommended, and the sushi is of high quality. Zen Ramen & Sushi is a great value for money, with prices that are pretty cheap for New York and portions that are the perfect size. Despite its small size and crowded conditions, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking for comfort in the form of a ramen bowl or high-quality sushi in Midtown New York.
Cull & Pistol
Address: 75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Phone: +1 (646) 568-1223
Details: $$, Seafood restaurant
Cull & Pistol is a small seafood restaurant located in the trendy Chelsea Market in New York City. The atmosphere is rustic with high-top tables, and the oyster shucker is hard at work. The restaurant specializes in seafood, and the oysters are fresh and appetizing. The menu is delectable, and the lobster ramen, in particular, is highly recommended.
The service is friendly and attentive, and the staff is efficient and accommodating, even during busy times. The seating is a little tight, but the quality of the dishes and the large portions make up for it. The warm lobster roll is a fresh take on a classic, and the Moules-frites (mussels and fries) are a very generous and tasty portion. The lobster ramen is a clever and up-to-date nod to the Ramen craze, complete with eggs and a rich and complex broth.
Cull & Pistol is a great spot to take a break from the market and enjoy a nice meal. It’s a perfect location for lunch after visiting the High Line. The dishes are excellent from start to finish, and there is no dish that you won’t enjoy. The specific special touches in each item make the food stand out, and the depth of flavor of each dish leaves you wanting more. If you’re a seafood lover and appreciate quality dishes, Cull & Pistol is a must-visit destination in New York City.
Urbanspace Vanderbilt
Address: 230 Park Ave, New York, NY 10169
Phone: +1 (646) 747-0810
Details: $$, Food court
Urbanspace Vanderbilt is a bustling food hall in the heart of New York City, featuring an array of food options to suit every palate. The atmosphere is lively, and the communal seating adds to the fun and friendly vibe. The food court is a perfect spot for a quick and delicious meal, and the variety of options is impressive.
The ramen place in Urbanspace Vanderbilt is a must-try for anyone looking for an authentic Japanese noodle soup. The ramen is delicious and filling, and the staff is quick and friendly. The pizza and the lobster rolls are also highly recommended, and the variety of food options means that there is something for everyone. The prices are reasonable, and the food quality is consistently high across all vendors.
The food hall is a great spot to grab a bite to eat, whether you’re a local on your lunch break or a tourist exploring the city. The energy of the place is contagious, and the variety of food options is impressive. The seating can be tight during busy times, but the communal tables make for a fun and social experience. Overall, Urbanspace Vanderbilt is a great addition to the Grand Central area and a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a quick, delicious, and fun meal.
Tonchin
Address: 13 W 36th St., New York, NY 10018
Phone: +1 (646) 692-9912
Details: $$, Japanese restaurant
Tonchin is a Michelin-starred Japanese restaurant in New York City, renowned for its outstanding ramen and delicious food options. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, perfect for a date night or a night out with friends. The service is quick and friendly, and the portions are hearty and filling, making it an excellent value for the price.
The ramen at Tonchin is a must-try and is regarded as some of the best in the city. The classic Tonkotsu and the miso ginger ramen are both highly recommended, with perfectly balanced broth and thinly sliced cha-shu pork. The crispy garlic salt shishito and zesty tonchin tonchin cucumber appetizers are also outstanding. The menu has a great variety of options, including vegetarian and vegan options, making it accessible to everyone.
The restaurant is beautifully decorated, adding to the cozy and intimate atmosphere. The shaved ice desserts are a great way to end the meal, with large portions and great taste. The Japanese Old Fashioned cocktail is also a must-try. Reservations are highly recommended, as the restaurant is often packed, with a wait time of 60-90 minutes on busy weekend evenings. Overall, Tonchin is an outstanding restaurant that offers amazing food, excellent service, and a cozy atmosphere.
IZAKAYA E.A.K. Hell’s Kitchen
Address: 360 W 46th St, New York, NY 10036
Phone: +1 (646) 850-8032
Details: $$, Ramen restaurant
IZAKAYA E.A.K. Hell’s Kitchen is a Japanese restaurant in New York City, known for its delicious ramen, as well as other authentic Japanese dishes. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, with a newly renovated interior and beautiful details. The staff is friendly and efficient, providing great service to customers.
The menu at IZAKAYA E.A.K. Hell’s Kitchen offers a variety of options, including vegan dishes, making it accessible to everyone. The pork and ginger dumplings are a great appetizer, and the ramen entrees are filling and delicious. The E.A.K. Signature ramen is their most popular and signature selection, featuring a chicken broth, pork chashu, spinach, and nori served in a gigantic bowl. The Zebra ramen is also excellent, with similar ingredients but a chicken pork combination broth that is deep in flavor.
The sake and cocktails are great, and the prices are very reasonable. The restaurant is clean, and the staff is capable and welcoming. The kaarage tofu is a must-try, with a texture almost like minced pork. The pork rice is great, served with a bit of theatre as the egg is fried on the hot plate the rice is served on and then mixed through. Overall, IZAKAYA E.A.K. Hell’s Kitchen is a great restaurant that offers delicious food, excellent service, and a cozy atmosphere.
In conclusion, New York City is home to some of the best Ramen places in the world. Whether you prefer traditional or modern interpretations, there is a Ramen spot for everyone. From the bustling streets of Manhattan to the hidden gems in Brooklyn, these Ramen places offer a unique and flavorful experience that is not to be missed. So, put on your stretchy pants and get ready to slurp your way through the best Ramen spots in New York City, one delicious bowl at a time.
