There’s an endless array of variations on the classic ramen – from soy sauce and tonkotsu (pork bone) to miso and beyond – ensuring you could indulge in them daily without ever tiring! Yet, amidst Tokyo’s bustling ramen scene, there’s a treasure trove of eateries serving up truly unique ramen experiences! Whether it’s ayu ramen, pineapple ramen, oyster ramen, Italian ramen, cheese ramen, or even milk ramen – Tokyo boasts a plethora of intriguing ramen spots offering unique twists! In this edition, we’re excited to unveil 15 quirky and distinctive ramen joints across Tokyo for you to savour.
Ready for Your Noodle Adventures? Presenting 17 Unique Ramen You Really Must Try
1. Oyster Ramen (Kinshicho)
Credit: Photo by M’s via Tabelog
First up is Saichi, located in Sumida-ku. At this restaurant, you can enjoy unique ramen made with oyster soup stock. Furthermore, the ramen is topped with oysters, making this ramen shop a must-visit for oyster lovers. In addition to oyster ramen, you can also relish tsukemen (dipping noodles), oyster rice, and oysters from the raw menu. It’s fantastic that the menu is quite extensive. You can even pair your ramen with a refreshing beer.
2. Ramen Katsuoken (Asakusabashi)
Credit: ramen_chikara
Moving on to another standout, Ramen Katsuo Ken in Asakusabashi presents a delightful experience with its ramen boasting plenty of bonito flakes. The flavour infusion of bonito flakes makes for an exceptional dish. For a refreshing alternative, try the Shio Lemon Ramen, ideal for beating the summer heat. Toppings include hana-katsuo (dried bonito flakes) and bonito-flavoured eggs.
3. Ayu Ramen (Futakotamagawa)
Credit: Ayu Ramen
Next, let’s explore Ayu Ramen in Futakotamagawa, renowned for its popularity with long queues daily. The star of the menu is the Ayu Ayu Ramen, featuring a whole ayu fish as its crowning glory. The clear, salt-flavoured soup marries perfectly with the chigere noodles, making every bite a delight. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in the limited ayu ramen, hot rice, and 100% sweetfish flakes, especially refreshing during the summer months.
4. Lemon Ramen (Oshima)
Credit: Rinsuzu Shokudo
In Oshima, Rin Suzu Shokudo offers a refreshing take with its ‘lemon ramen’. This invigorating dish incorporates lemon into the broth, perfect for cooling down on hot summer days. The ‘ice lemon ramen’ is particularly recommended for its ability to combat summer fatigue. Alongside the lemon ramen, the menu boasts a variety of other dishes, providing the perfect respite from the sweltering Tokyo heat.
5. Pineapple Ramen (Machida)
Credit: Paishio
Now let’s head to Machida’s Papa Papa Pineapple Ramen for a fruity twist on traditional ramen. Indulge in a variety of fruity ramen dishes, including the signature Pineapple Ramen. Renowned for its unexpectedly delightful flavours, this spot is a hit among locals and visitors alike. Alongside pineapple salt ramen, spicy ramen, and soy sauce ramen, don’t miss out on limited-time specials like the winter-only chocolate-filled oil ramen called Kaka Kakao, or seasonal treats like ‘chilled pineapple ramen’, perfect for refreshing summer dining.
6. Coffee Ramen (Ohanajaya)
Credit: Photo by ぶらり自転車途中下車 via Tabelog
At Aroma in Ohanajaya Station, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo, prepare to be surprised by their Coffee Ramen. Despite its cute appearance, this dish packs a flavourful punch, incorporating iced coffee into the soup and noodles. The result is a unique ramen blend of sweetness and savouriness that’s sure to tantalise your taste buds.
7. Blue Ramen (Shibuya)
Credit: KIPPOSHI
For a truly unique ramen dining experience, visit Kippooshi, where you’ll encounter a ‘marine blue soup’ that’s sure to captivate everyone. The stylish atmosphere of the restaurant, reminiscent of a foreign beach resort, adds to the charm. Alongside the blue ramen known as Torichintang Ao, the menu offers other refreshing options, making it a perfect choice for summer dining.
8. Ramen with Pie Crust (Seibu Tachikawa)
Credit: UMA TSUKEMEN
In Seibu Tachikawa Station, UMA TSUKEMEN offers a one-of-a-kind experience with its ‘Pie Wrapping Baked Ramen’. Despite its unusual appearance, this dish is surprisingly delicious. Other highlights include the Kyoku UMA MEGA Shrimp Tsukemen, where you crack open a crispy pie crust to reveal hot dipping sauce, providing a unique ramen twist on traditional ramen.
9. Omelette Ramen (Shin-Koenji)
Credit: Menshokaminote
Mensho Kamite in Shin-Koenji Station presents the Fluffy Omu Ramen, one of the seven divine ramen options available. A fusion of teppanyaki and ramen, this dish features fluffy omelette rice paired perfectly with a tomato-based soup and cheese powder topping, providing a delightful contrast of flavours and textures.
10. Cheese Ramen (Ebisu)
Credit: Tsukumo Ramen Ebisu
For cheese lovers, Kujukutonkotsu Ramen in Ebisu offers a treat with its ‘cheese ramen’. Indulge in popular dishes like the ‘Original Marukyu Miso Cheese Ramen’ and ‘Marukyu Tomato Cheese Ramen’, both featuring a delectable unique ramen combination of flavours.
11. Natto Ramen
Credit: Ramen Horiuchi
At a shop in Shinjuku, you’ll find ‘natto ramen’, perfect for fans of fermented soybeans. Though it may have a unique ramen aroma and texture, once you start eating, you’ll be hooked. For those less adventurous, the shop also offers regular ramen with salty and spicy flavours.
12. Italian Ramen
Credit: Due Italian
Another standout is the fusion of Italian cuisine with ramen at a certain restaurant. Order a carbonara and be surprised with a bowl of delicious ramen instead of pasta. Top it off with a custom risotto made from the leftover ramen for a unique ramen dining experience.
13. Beef Bone Ramen
Credit: Matador Gyukotsu Ramen
For something truly special, don’t miss Matador Gyukotsu Ramen, known for its best Beef Bone Ramen in Tokyo. Try the Zeitaku Yakigyu Ramen for a bowl brimming with over 30 ingredients, guaranteed to leave you satisfied.
14. Chocolate Ramen
Credit: Kourakuen
Chocolate lovers won’t want to miss the chocolate ramen available at select times of the year. Featuring a spicy lamb broth with a hint of dark chocolate, this creamy concoction is a unique ramen treat that’s sure to delight your taste buds.
Typically, this ramen is limited and comes around Valentine’s season; something to try if you come around February 14th to early March. It only costs 640 yen!
15. Oyster Ramen Done Differently
Credit: tadahen nakano
Experience a warm welcome at Tadaima, where you’ll feel right at home. The restaurant’s signature ramen, made with oysters blended with sea bream, is mixed just before serving for a truly unique ramen touch.
16. Lobster Ramen
Credit: Ebimaru Ramen
For a chic and indulgent experience, go for the Lobster Ramen from Ebimaru. Treat yourself to the Whole Lobster Ramen, featuring a whole roasted Lobster with side dishes, for an unforgettable unique ramen dining experience.
17. Ebisoba Ichigen
Credit: mlmsearcher
For those seeking customisable options, look no further than a certain restaurant offering a variety of flavours like Salt, Soy Sauce, and Miso. With the ability to adjust the strength of the taste, it’s a unique ramen dining experience tailored to your preferences.
Tokyo’s Diverse Ramen Delights: A Culinary Journey Awaits!
With its vast array of unique ramen offerings, Tokyo promises an unforgettable culinary adventure for all. Whether you’re craving the comforting embrace of traditional flavours or eager to explore adventurous twists, Tokyo’s ramen scene caters to every taste. From neighbourhood eateries to renowned establishments, each bowl tells a story, reflecting the city’s rich culinary heritage and innovative spirit.
So, venture forth and savour the diverse delights of Tokyo’s ramen – a journey that promises to tantalise your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
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