Japan’s love for ramen is unmistakable, and as the culinary scene continues to evolve, 2024 brings new rankings celebrating the best ramen shops across the country. A recent report by the well-known ramen database has highlighted the top eateries, particularly focusing on major urban areas like Osaka, Hiroshima, and Tokushima.
Starting on the top of the list, the best ramen shop for 2024, according to the database, is "超多加水純手打ち麺 仁しむら" (Chō Takasu Jun Teuchi Men Nishimura), located in the fiercely competitive ramen district of Higashi Osaka. The establishment is renowned for its hand-made noodles with excellent texture and the signature dish, "手打ち醤油" (Handmade Soy Sauce Ramen), which features rich broth made from pork stock. During winter months, the shop also delights ramen lovers with its seasonal, blended miso ramen. Its commitment to quality and distinctive flavors has secured its position at the top of this year's ramen rankings.
Trailing closely behind at the second spot is "鶏Soba Toraや" (Tori Soba Toraya), found just a stone's throw from Hanazonocho Station. This popular ramen spot boasts two main soups: one is the luxurious and creamy chicken paitan, and the other is the clear chicken broth, each made from local chicken. The shop's unique self-made sauces and variable seasonal noodles create not only variety but also excitement among patrons eager to try something new. Operating from early morning, the shop caters to breakfast ramen fans, making it popular all day long.
Moving from Osaka to Hiroshima, the top ramen shop has been named as "つたふじ 福山支店" (Tsutafuji Fukuyama Branch). With roots extending back to 1947, this restaurant captures the essence of tradition and culinary precision with its simplicity. Located about 1.4 kilometers from Fukuyama Station, diners can indulge in unique selections like their "中華そば" (Chinese Soba) and "中華うどん" (Chinese Udon), where customers choose their preferred seafood-based broth, followed by the type of sauce, including soy, miso, or salt. The atmosphere is relaxed, welcoming diners to savor selections like the popular "中華そば 肉づくし" (Chinese Soba with Extra Meat), featuring generous amounts of both large and small slices of pork.
Also making the Hiroshima list, "らーめん ふじもと" (Ramen Fujimoto) takes the second prize with its casual ambiance and innovative broth offerings, providing customers with unique choices like sanma (saury), tuna, and scallops for their savory soups. The restaurant is situated comfortably within the city limits of Hiroshima, making it accessible for food enthusiasts and families.
Over to Tokushima, the rankings show "支那そば 王王軒 本店" (Shina Soba Ōkan Honkan) holding the number one spot. Opened in 1998, this family-friendly establishment emphasizes dishes their slogan describes as “delicious enough for children” to enjoy. With essentials such as sweetly boiled pork belly and precisely cooked yuawa with thick and flavorful soy sauce broth, this restaurant combines rich flavors and comforting atmosphere. Diners will also appreciate the variety of additional toppings available, which includes options like soft-boiled eggs and double meat servings.
The second-place contender for the region is "支那そば 三八 田宮店" (Shina Soba Sanpachi Tamiya Shop), established since 1969 and showcasing traditional yellow-style Tokushima ramen. During lunch or dinner, patrons can choose to finish their meals with soft-serve ice cream — another local favorite.
For ramen aficionados, these rankings not only highlight the best places to get ramen but also reflect the diverse and vibrant culture surrounding ramen across Japan. Consumers are increasingly seeking out unique flavors and traditional techniques, creating competition ripe with innovation. With these insights from the ramen database, ramen lovers can discover culinary gems and favorites just waiting to be explored.
The complete rankings feature diverse establishments from lesser-known spots to crowd-pleasers, making it evident why ramen holds such a prominent place in Japanese cuisine. Enthusiasts can check out the full lists through respective online sources, ensuring they do not miss out on great dining experiences as they explore the flavors of Japan.
