Looking for some comfort food this winter? It’s no secret that Vancouver is known for its delicious ramen scene, so why not take advantage? We’ve attracted all kinds of concepts to the city over the years, from major Japanese names to authentic, hole-in-the-wall options. So with that in mind, here are 11 incredible ramen restaurants to check out in Vancouver.
Ramen Danbo
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Let’s start with a top pick for the classic shoyu ramen that most people associate with the dish. Rich and creamy, with just the right amount of salt. The Negi-Goma is delicious as well, for those craving a little healthier-feeling ramen. Don’t be afraid to add an egg and grab the chashu-pork donburi on the side, either.
Where: Multiple locations
Options: Takeout, delivery and dine-in
Kinton Ramen
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Known for its sophisticated, rich soup base and variety of noodle and protein options, Kinton Ramen has multiple locations across Metro Vancouver to check out, including a UBC location and a spot in Lonsdale in North Vancouver. Led by Executive Chef Aki Urata, the OG Toronto location was one of the first Japanese ramen restaurants in Toronto, so the brand has a pretty significant history in Canada.
Where: Multiple locations
Options: Takeout, delivery and dine-in
Hokkaido Ramen Santouka
Probably the most famous spot in the city for ramen. Everything here is good, but we personally recommend their spicy miso ramen and the gyoza. The best part about ordering takeout? You won’t have to stand in one of the most infamous ramen lines in Vancouver.
Where: Multiple locations
Options: Takeout, delivery and dine-in
Jinya Ramen Bar
These guys do some fantastic unique flavours, but they get the nod for having the best vegan ramen dish by far. How they do it, we don’t know, but it seriously blew us away when we first tried it.
Where: Multiple locations
Options: Takeout, delivery and dine-in
Kokoro Tokyo Mazesoba
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Another newer name in the scene, this spot offers a particular dish that we’re intrigued by. Sure, (tasty) ramen is available, but the real draw here is the mazesoba, which is more or less the brothless cousin of ramen. Fun fact- this Japanese chain is the largest in the world for the dish.
Where: 551 Seymour Street
Options: Takeout, delivery and dine-in
Taishoken Ramen
Our top pick for the underrated tsukemen style of ramen, where the noodles and broth are served separately. Insanely rich and decadent, but oh so good when you’re ready for it. Go for hot instead of cold noodles, by the way. You can thank us later.
Where: 515 Abbott Street
Options: Takeout, delivery and dine-in
The Ramen Butcher
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Although the name is unique, The Ramen Butcher is affiliated with the insanely popular Menya Kouji Group in Japan. You can’t go wrong with the menu, but we highly recommend checking them out for their great happy hour deal.
Where: 223 East Georgia Street
Options: Takeout, delivery and dine-in
Ramen Gojiro
This spot offers traditional chashu or karaage with every order, and their ramen is some of the best we’ve had in the city. From Bakamori ramen to Tsukemen – the only challenge you’ll have is choosing what to eat.
Where: 501 Dunsmuir Street
Options: Takeout, delivery and dine-in
Marutama Ramen
Definitely the best spot in the city if you’re craving a chicken-based broth. While every other spot on this list specializes in pork, these guys excel at making chicken just as delicious, if not more so. There’s a reason why it’s Jason Momoa’s favourite.
Where: Multiple locations
Options: Takeout and dine-in
Kintaro Ramen
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Located in the West End, Kintaro Ramen Bar might be the best option in the city for those looking for a neighbourhood Japanese ramen bar experience. Featuring an unpretentious interior but serving delicious ramen in a variety of styles, Kintaro is a great way to cap off a day spent shopping and walking around.
Where: 788 Denman Street
Options: Takeout, delivery and dine-in
Ramen Taka Notsume
This one’s located at the Aberdeen Centre in Richmond, and it’s absolutely worth the trip if you’re craving a bowl of Asahikawa-style ramen. Our suggestion? Try out their signature Dragon Shoyu or go with one of their many miso-based options.
Where: 4151 Hazelbridge Way, Richmond
Options: Takeout, delivery and dine-in
And that’s our guide to some amazing ramen restaurants in Vancouver. We hope this list gives you some solid options by way of comfort food this winter.
