Ninja Ramen
The menu at Ninja Ramen features one type of ramen, a style from Asahikawa that’s rather different from the usual Hakata-syle tonkotsu or Sapporo-style miso. The only option is to either add spice or miso (or both). They also serve mazemen, which is a kind of ramen without the broth. However, this spot isn’t purely about the ramen; people love to come here for the relaxed vibe, friendly staff, and impressive bar. You can choose from a variety of whiskies or opt for one of the ninja cocktails like the Raphael or the Amy Jo Johnson (named after the Pink Power Ranger).
Ninja Ramen, 4219 Washington Ave, Houston, TX, USA, +1 281 888 5873
Fat Bao
Though Fat Bao is mainly known for its steamed buns stuffed with everything from pork belly to soft shell crab, they also know how to serve ramen. At their Sugar Land location you can order a bowl every day of the week. On the menu you will find six ramen options, including the spicy green curry, the popular tonkotsu and a vegetarian alternative. Head over to Fat Bao for a casual dining experience and try one of their tasty ramen bowls.
Fat Bao, 3419 Kirby Dr, Houston, TX, USA, +1 713 677 0341
JINYA Ramen Bar – Midtown
JINYA Ramen Bar serves 11 different ramen bowls, and you can choose from more than 20 toppings to customize your bowl. Some classics include the spicy chicken ramen and the Cha Cha Cha for garlic lovers, but don’t forget to try the delicious crispy shrimp balls as an appetizer.
JINYA Ramen Bar Midtown, 3201 Louisiana St, Houston, TX, USA, +1 832 925 8596
JINYA Ramen Bar | © Nanja Ummels
Soma Sushi
Though the name might suggest otherwise, this restaurant serves not only sushi but also offers a variety of Japanese dishes. On the menu you will find five ramen bowls, each with a different tasty broth. Soma Sushi takes pride in the fact that the ingredients in their pork broth are locally sourced from heritage breed farms.
Soma Sushi, 4820 Washington Ave, Houston, TX, USA, +1 713 861 2726
Kata Robata
Kata Robata is mainly known for its divine sushi, but where would Japanese dining be without ramen? In the battle for the best bowl, chef Manabu Horiuchi brings the oxtail ramen and spicy soy ramen. Both dishes are praised for their rich flavor and smooth broth. Do make sure to leave some space for dessert, as the green tea soufflé cheesecake and chocolate mousse with marshmallow ice cream are simply irresistible.
Kata Robata, 3600 Kirby Suite H, Houston, TX, USA, +1 713 526 8858
Spicy Soy Ramen | © Courtesy of Kata Robata
Samurai Noodle
Samurai Noodle wins you over with their house-crafted noodles, which come in five different textures ranging from extra soft to extra firm. Choose from thin, wavy, or gluten-free noodles, and watch them being prepared in their kitchen. After trying many different kinds of ramen in Japan, the chef of Samurai Noodle recreated the best bowls here in Houston. With their extended ramen menu (including two vegan options) and different varieties of tsukemen, this place provides multiple opportunities for your perfect dish.
Samurai Noodle, 1801 Durham Drive Suite 2, Houston, TX, USA, +1 832 879 2982
Ka Sushi
Ka Sushi has friendly service, warm decor and delicious Japanese food. Ka Sushi is one of the least traditional restaurants on the list when it comes to ramen. On the menu, you will find two ramen options, both with a unique twist on the original version. The oxtail ramen is served in a smooth curry coconut duck broth, while the lobster ramen comes with Brussels sprouts and a lobster tong to make sure no meat is left behind. This is the perfect place for ramen lovers that want something different.
Ka Sushi, 1901 N Shepherd Dr, Houston, TX, USA, +1 832 879 2118
Ka Sushi | © Nanja Ummels
Tiger Den
Tiger Den specializes in house-crafted noodles and lets its broth simmer for 20 hours to get that deep, rich flavor. Some of their classics include the spicy miso, the garlic black bean and the original tonkotsu ramen. With the black-and-white wall murals and the long community table in the middle, they strive to provide a lively and contemporary atmosphere.
Tiger Den, 9889 Bellaire Blvd, Houston, TX, USA, +1 832 804 7755
Mochi Sushi
Although perhaps not as trendy as some other ramen joints, Mochi Sushi has become a popular spot thanks to its top-notch food. Some signature dishes include the miso lobster mac & cheese, kobe beef tacos, and their beloved ramen. Do some of these sound familiar? That’s very well possible, since the chef at Mochi Sushi is formerly of Kata Robata. When ordering ramen at this cozy restaurant, you can choose from the shoyu and spicy soy.
Mochi Sushi, 5854 New Territory Blvd, Sugar Land, TX, USA, +1 832 886 4338
Tonkotsu Ramen | © Courtesy of Mochi Sushi
Ramen Jin
Ramen Jin is one of Houston’s most beloved ramen spots. This place has been praised for its hearty broth that is made from scratch every day. But what people are truly raving about is the flavorful five-minute egg that comes with the bowl and can be ordered as an extra topping. With their wooden interior designed by owner Brian Chen, Ramen Jin aims to provide a warm and rustic-chic atmosphere. The communal table in the middle is perfect for socializing, while the tables at the side offer a bit more privacy.
Ramen Jin, 11181 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX, USA, +1 713 278 8702