Discover 10 of Metro Manila’s Best Ramen Spots
Amidst the bustling streets and neon lights of Metro Manila, a culinary romance ignites—the love for ramen. In the heart of this vibrant city, where flavors from East and West intertwine, ramen stands as a cherished symbol of comfort and connection.
Each steaming bowl tells a tale of meticulous craftsmanship, savory broths that warm the soul, and noodles that embrace the traditions of the old. In this bustling metropolis, we embark on a mouthwatering expedition to uncover the top 10 best ramen spots, where flavors fuse in harmony, and every spoonful is a dance of exquisite satisfaction.
1. Mendokoro Ramenba (Makati City)
Mendokoro Ramenba is known for its authentic and flavorful ramen. The small, intimate space adds to the charm, making it a popular spot among ramen enthusiasts. Mendokoro Ramenba in Makati City sets itself apart from other ramen spots through a combination of distinctive elements. Led by culinary experts Elbert Cuenca and Ryan Cruz, the restaurant offers an intimate 21-seater dining experience with a boat-shaped counter where diners can watch the ramen being crafted.
Their focused menu, concentrating solely on ramen and gyoza, allows them to perfect each dish, resulting in rich, soulful flavors that transport patrons to Japan. The no-takeaway policy emphasizes the importance of savoring the moment, while the limited seating and long queues create an exclusive, eagerly anticipated dining atmosphere that keeps enthusiasts coming back for more.
Highly Recommended: The best food recommendation is their signature Tonkotsu Shoyu Ramen. Pair it with their Gyoza, a side of pan-fried dumplings, to complete the experience!
Where to order: Dine in; +63 (2) 7 215 1751 and +63 (2) 8 478 9625; takeaway kits; nipponhasha.com; @mendokoro_ramenba
2. Ippudo (Makati City)
Originally from Japan, Ippudo offers a wide variety of ramen with rich and creamy tonkotsu broth. The modern and stylish ambiance makes it a great place to enjoy a bowl of ramen. Ippudo in Makati City stands out among other ramen spots with its unique blend of tradition and innovation. As a globally renowned ramen chain originating from Japan, Ippudo brings an authentic and time-tested ramen experience to the heart of Makati.
The restaurant’s signature dish, the Shiromaru Motoaji, features a creamy tonkotsu broth that boasts a depth of flavor honed over years of refinement. Alongside classic options, Ippudo offers creative variations and seasonal specials, catering to diverse tastes. With stylish and modern interiors, Ippudo provides a contemporary ambiance, appealing to both traditionalists and those seeking a fresh take on the beloved Japanese comfort food.
Highly Recommended: Ippudo Ramen is a must-try for first-time visitors. If you enjoy a spicy kick, try Ippudo’s Spicy Ramen. As a side dish, Ippudo’s Gyoza, or pan-fried dumplings, is a popular choice. For a refreshing drink, try Ippudo’s Ichiru Sake, a Japanese-inspired cocktail made with sake, lemon, and other ingredients! This food combination is surely a memorable experience!
Where to order: Dine in; +632 239 2570; takeaway; Grab Food; pickup; @ippudoph
3. Ramen Nagi (Makati City)
Ramen Nagi is a popular ramen chain that originated in Japan. They offer a unique “Butao” ramen, which has a rich and creamy tonkotsu broth that can be customized with various toppings and spice levels. Ramen Nagi’s service allows customers to choose their preferences using a sheet of paper, which includes options for broth richness, garlic, spice level, and more.
Additionally, Ramen Nagi boasts an impressive range of gourmet toppings, enhancing the dining experience with diverse flavors and textures. The dedication to quality extends to their handmade noodles and carefully crafted broths, showcasing the expertise of founder and master chef, Ikuta Satoshi. Ramen Nagi provides an exceptional and interactive culinary journey that keeps diners coming back for more.
Highly Recommended: Black King is highly recommended by customers which features black garlic squid ink ramen. You can enjoy Red King if you enjoy it with spice. Don’t forget to order a Tamago, as it is a popular add-on that complements the ramen dishes!
Where to order: Dine in; +632 907 4654; takeaway; ramennagi.com.ph; @ramennagimanila
4. Yushoken (Muntinlupa City)
Yushoken is a cozy ramen joint known for its delicious tonkotsu ramen. The noodles are made fresh in-house, and the broth is simmered for hours to achieve a rich flavor. Led by the visionary duo Elbert Cuenca and Ryan Cruz, the restaurant upholds traditional Japanese ramen techniques, including a 20-hour slow-cooked tonkotsu broth, handcrafted noodles, and premium ingredients imported from Japan.
The rich and soulful flavors found in each bowl transport diners to the bustling streets of Japan. Emphasizing a simple yet refined menu, Yushoken focuses solely on perfecting ramen and complementing it with delectable side dishes like chicken karaage. The result is an extraordinary and genuine culinary experience that remains unmatched by other ramen spots.
Highly Recommended: A highly recommended dish to order is the “Tantanmen.” Pair the Tantanmen with their famous gyoza for a complete and enjoyable dining experience.
Where to order: Dine in; +63 (2) 8808 7424; @ramen_yushoken; takeaway
5. Tsuta (Makati City)
Tsuta is the first Michelin-starred ramen shop in Japan, and their branch in Makati brings their top-notch ramen to the Philippines. They offer unique and innovative ramen flavors. Renowned Chef Yuki Onishi crafts exquisite bowls with a soy-based shoyu broth infused with truffle, elevating the taste to new heights. Tsuta’s handcrafted noodles, made from a unique blend of whole wheat and Italian flour, provide an extraordinary texture.
The restaurant’s commitment to quality extends to meticulously sourced ingredients, like premium Ajidouraku chicken and select vegetables. Tsuta’s fusion of Japanese artistry and global culinary influences makes it a distinctive destination that redefines ramen excellence.
Highly Recommended: Shoyu Soba is highly worth the try! This Michelin-starred ramen is known for its incredibly smooth and light taste, with a delightful truffle flavor in the shoyu (soy sauce) broth. The ajitama (seasoned soft-boiled egg) is also cooked to perfection, adding to the overall excellence of the dish.
Where to order: Dine in; takeaway
6. Mitsuyado Sei-Men (Makati City)
Mitsuyado Sei-Men specializes in “dipping ramen” or tsukemen, where the noodles are served separately from the broth, allowing customers to dip them for a rich and flavorful experience. As the “House of Tsukemen,” the restaurant specializes in dipping ramen, where noodles are served separate from the broth.
This interactive dining experience allows patrons to customize the intensity of flavor by dipping the noodles to their preference. The broth is a delectable blend of rich pork bone and fish flavors, creating a delightful umami explosion. With a variety of toppings and sides to choose from, Mitsuyado Sei-Men offers a delightful fusion of Japanese and Filipino influences, making it a unique and exciting destination for ramen enthusiasts.
Highly Recommended: One of the highly recommended dishes to order is the Double Cheese Sauce Tsukemen, which features a creamy and indulgent cheese sauce for dipping the noodles.
Where to order: Dine in; +63 (2) 8 511 1390; takeaway; Instagram @mitsuyadoseimenph
7. Hanamaruken Ramen (Metro Manila)
Hanamaruken Ramen is famous for its “Happiness Ramen,” featuring slow-braised pork rib that is tender and packed with flavor. Hanamaruken Ramen stands out among other ramen spots with its iconic dish, the “Happiness Ramen.” This signature bowl features succulent slow-braised pork rib, known as “Happiness Ribs,” that effortlessly falls off the bone.
The tender meat and rich flavors of the ribs complement the delicious tonkotsu broth and handcrafted noodles, creating a heavenly and unforgettable taste. The restaurant’s commitment to using premium ingredients and traditional cooking techniques ensures an unparalleled ramen experience. Hanamaruken’s dedication to crafting the perfect balance of textures and flavors, centered around the exceptional Happiness Ribs, makes it a true standout and a go-to destination for ramen enthusiasts seeking pure culinary bliss.
Highly Recommended: The signature dish, Pot Belly Ramen, is definitely worth the try! The restaurant is also known for its Double Happiness Signature Ramen and delectable Gyoza, which are highly recommended by customers.
Where to order: Dine in; 0917 589 4547; Instagram @hanamaruken_ph; takeaway
8. Ramen Daisho (Quezon City)
Ramen Daisho offers classic and hearty ramen bowls with a variety of toppings and flavor options. Ramen Daisho in Quezon City sets itself apart with its innovative “fire ramen” experience. The show-stopping feature involves the chef dramatically igniting a wall of fire that roars above the sizzling hot bowls. Beyond the captivating spectacle, Ramen Daisho delivers exceptional flavors, with a selection of rich and aromatic broths, complemented by tender chashu and perfectly cooked noodles.
The menu offers customizable options, allowing patrons to tailor their ramen to personal tastes. The restaurant’s focus on providing top-notch service, together with the fiery culinary performance, creates an unforgettable and thrilling dining experience that distinguishes Ramen Daisho from other ramen spots.
Highly Recommended: Try Ramen Daisho’s Yakibuta Chahan, a unique dish that combines ramen noodles with a savory pork and vegetable stir-fry. This dish has been highly recommended by customers for its taste and quality!
Where to order: Dine in; takeaway
9. Ramen Ron (Mandaluyong City)
Ramen Ron is a hidden gem tucked away in Mandaluyong City. They serve authentic and delicious ramen with a focus on quality ingredients. Ukokkei Ramen Ron in Mandaluyong City stands out as a hidden gem with a loyal following. What sets it apart is the legendary Master Chef Atsushi Ukokkei’s dedication to crafting each bowl with meticulous attention to detail. With a limited menu, the focus is on perfecting the essentials—robust tonkotsu broth, handmade noodles, and delectable chashu.
The simplicity allows for the highest quality and consistency, creating a symphony of flavors that captivate the senses. The small, unassuming space adds to the authentic Japanese ramen bar experience, where patrons can savor the mastery of a true ramen artisan, making Ukokkei Ramen Ron a must-visit for ramen aficionados seeking unparalleled excellence.
Highly Recommended: The best food recommendation to order at Ukokkei Ramen Ron in Mandaluyong City is the Shoyu Ramen. This particular dish is highly praised for its smooth shoyu taste, making it a standout choice for visitors.
Where to order: Dine in; +63 2 856 4588; takeaway
10. Hokkaido Ramen Santouka (Makati City)
Hokkaido Ramen Santouka stands apart with its unwavering commitment to traditional Hokkaido-style ramen. As a global ramen phenomenon hailing from Japan’s Hokkaido region, Santouka offers a genuine taste of Sapporo-style ramen. The signature Shio Ramen, featuring a delicate salt-based broth, captures the essence of Hokkaido’s culinary heritage.
The noodles, made in-house following a generations-old recipe, perfectly complement the flavorful broth. With its warm and welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of Japanese ramen shops, Santouka offers an immersive experience. This dedication to preserving Hokkaido’s culinary legacy, coupled with exceptional flavors and attentive service, makes Santouka a standout destination for ramen enthusiasts seeking an unparalleled taste of Japan.
Highly Recommended: Shio Ramen is their signature dish which is highly recommended by customers for a satisfying and authentic ramen experience!
Where to order: Dine in; 02-728-1381; Instagram @santoukaph; takeaway
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