# If You’re Heading to Tokyo, Ramen is Essential
A piping hot bowl of noodles in flavorful, umami-filled broth, garnished with succulent chashu and a rich yolked egg is definitely an essential experience. With countless ramen establishments in Tokyo, the variety can create decision fatigue for many tourists.
## My Enduring Affection for Tokyo Ramen
Mike and I have been delving into Tokyo’s ramen landscape since the early 2000s when a simple bowl was just 500 yen. Over the years, we’ve frequented more than 300 ramen venues, nurturing a profound affection for noodles. Our adventure commenced at David Chang’s Momofuku Bar in New York, which ignited our passion. After thorough research and efforts to replicate our favorite bowls at home, our inaugural bowl in Tokyo left us astonished and reaffirmed our enthusiasm.
We became enthusiastic followers of ramen accolades, including the TRY Magazine (Tokyo Ramen of the Year), and committed ourselves to sample every winner. Despite the overwhelming array of choices, we persist in hunting for the finest ramen establishments annually.
## My Top 10 Ramen Spots in Tokyo
Here are my top ten ramen spots in Tokyo, selected for their approachable, refined tastes. These choices may not all be in vogue, but each provides a memorable experience.
### 1. Ginza Hachigo
– **Broth:** A clear consommé crafted from duck, free-range chicken, scallops, dried tomatoes, and more.
– **Noodles:** Thin, bouncy, and springy durum wheat noodles.
– **Toppings:** Kujo negi, bamboo shoots, thick-cut chashu, and ajitama.
– **Vibe:** Sophisticated with a wooden counter and open kitchen.
**Location:** 3 Chome−14−2 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo
**Hours:** Tuesday-Sunday, 11am until the soup is exhausted
### 2. Motenashi Kuroki
– **Broth:** Shio broth featuring chicken, duck, pork, and a mix of five salts.
– **Noodles:** Choice of thin straight or hand-scrunched thick curly noodles.
– **Toppings:** Chicken chashu, menma, and seasonal variations.
– **Vibe:** Contemporary and spacious with an attractive display.
**Location:** 1 Chome-28-9 Asakusabashi, Taito City, Tokyo
**Hours:** M-S 11am-3pm, 6pm-8pm
### 3. Konjiki Hototogisu
– **Broth:** Dashi, clam, fish, and chicken broth finished with a truffle sauce.
– **Noodles:** Chewy, medium-thin noodles made from Hokkaido wheat.
– **Toppings:** Roast pork shoulder chashu and signature black truffle sauce.
– **Vibe:** Inviting ramen counter with warm wooden accents.
**Location:** 2 Chome−4−1 Shinjuku City, Shinjuku, Tokyo
**Hours:** M-F 11am-2:30pm, 6:30-8:30pm
### 4. Jun Teuchi Men to Mirai
– **Broth:** Light and clean chicken broth with a touch of yuzu.
– **Noodles:** Extra thick, handmade noodles.
– **Toppings:** Shrimp wonton, pork belly chashu, and cilantro.
– **Vibe:** Traditional ramen setting with an open kitchen.
**Location:** 3 Chome-25-1 Kitazawa, Setagaya City, Tokyo
**Hours:** M-F 11:30am – 2:30pm, 5:30-9pm; Sat-Sun 11:30am-5pm
### 5. Kagari
– **Broth:** Creamy toripaitan made from Japanese chickens.
– **Noodles:** Thin, straight noodles that pair well with the broth.
– **Toppings:** Tender sous vide chicken breast and seasonal vegetables.
– **Vibe:** Elegant and cozy within a tucked-away Ginza alley.
**Location:** 6 Chome-4-12 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo
**Hours:** 11am-9:30pm
### 6. Yamaguchi
– **Broth:** 100% chicken stock with a subtle umami essence.
– **Noodles:** Chewy, medium-thin noodles.
– **Toppings:** Salt-brined chicken breast, braised pork shoulder chashu, and chicken wonton.
– **Vibe:** Modern ramen counter with a pristine kitchen.
**Location:** 3 Chome-13-4 Nishiwaseda, Shinjuku City, Tokyo
**Hours:** Daily, 11am – 9:30pm, or until sold out
### 7. Mensho Gotokuji