What's the difference between Tonkotsu, Miso, Shoyu, and Shio ramen?

These are the four main "tare" or flavor bases for ramen broth. **Tonkotsu** is a rich, creamy pork bone broth, often cloudy and deeply savory. **Miso** ramen uses fermented soybean paste for a complex, umami-rich flavor that can be nutty and slightly sweet. **Shoyu** ramen is a clear broth flavored with Japanese soy sauce, offering a tangy, savory, and light taste. **Shio**, meaning salt, is the lightest and clearest broth, seasoned with salt to highlight the natural flavors of the underlying chicken or pork stock. Many ramen restaurants in Melbourne specialize in one or two of these styles.

How can I find authentic Japanese ramen in Melbourne?

Finding "authentic Japanese ramen" means looking for a few key signs. Check for restaurants that make their noodles in-house, offer a variety of traditional broths like Tonkotsu or Shoyu, and have toppings like chashu (braised pork), ajitama (marinated soft-boiled egg), and nori (seaweed). Our directory helps you find authentic ramen shops in Melbourne by highlighting these features and including user reviews that often mention authenticity.

Are there vegetarian or vegan ramen options available?

Yes! The demand for "vegetarian ramen" and "vegan ramen" has grown, and many restaurants in Melbourne now offer delicious plant-based options. These often feature a vegetable or mushroom-based broth, tofu or other plant-based proteins, and a variety of fresh vegetable toppings. Use our "vegetarian options" or "vegan" filter to easily discover noodle shops that cater to your dietary needs.

What is Tsukemen, and how is it different from ramen?

Tsukemen is a popular variation where the noodles and broth are served separately. The noodles, usually thicker and served cold or at room temperature, are dipped into a very concentrated, intensely flavored broth before eating. It's a unique and interactive dining experience. Many top-rated ramen restaurants in Melbourne also feature "tsukemen ramen" on their menu.

What are some common ramen toppings I should try?

Beyond the noodles and broth, toppings define your ramen experience. Popular choices include **Chashu** (tender braised pork belly), **Ajitama** (marinated soft-boiled egg with a jammy yolk), **Menma** (bamboo shoots), **Nori** (dried seaweed), **Narutomaki** (cured fish cake with a pink spiral), and fresh scallions. Many shops also offer add-ons like corn, butter, or a "spice bomb" for a "spicy ramen" kick.

Is it rude to slurp my ramen noodles?

Not at all! In Japan, slurping noodles is considered a sign that you are enjoying your meal. It also helps cool down the hot noodles as you eat them and enhances the flavor. So go ahead and slurp away at any ramen restaurant in Melbourne—it's part of the authentic experience!

Kae-dama is a system for ordering an extra serving of noodles. If you've finished your first portion of noodles but still have broth left, you can order a "kae-dama" to keep the meal going. It's a great way to get more out of that delicious broth and is a common practice at many authentic ramen shops, especially those specializing in Hakata-style ramen.

How can I find ramen restaurants that are good for a date night or groups?

Finding the right atmosphere is key. For a "ramen for a date night," look for restaurants with a "full bar," "private booths," or a more "romantic" ambiance. For groups, search for "ramen for groups" or check for restaurants that take reservations or have large communal tables. Our directory filters in Melbourne help you find the perfect spot for any occasion, whether it's a "business lunch" or a "family-friendly" dinner.

How do I find affordable ramen or cheap eats near me?

Ramen can be a fantastic "budget-friendly" meal. To find "affordable ramen restaurants" in Melbourne, use our price filters to sort by cost. Also, look for "happy hour ramen specials," "lunch specials," or "ramen deals" in our listings. Many great noodle shops offer a delicious and filling bowl for a great value.

Can I find ramen with gluten-free noodles?

Yes, many ramen shops are now offering "gluten-free noodles" to accommodate dietary restrictions. These are often made from rice or other alternative flours. Because not all restaurants offer this, it's best to check our directory or call the restaurant ahead of time. Use our "gluten-free noodles" filter to find accommodating ramen places in Melbourne.

Discover Your Ideal Ramen Restaurant in Melbourne, Australia

Found 30 Ramen Studios Near You in Melbourne, Victoria

Showing 16-30 of 30 listings in Melbourne, Victoria.

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Showing 16-30 of 30 listings in Melbourne, Victoria.

Onsen Japanese

609 Lonsdale St, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

4.3(834 reviews)

Experience authentic Japanese flavors at Hakoya, a cozy ramen bar in Melbourne's CBD. Transport yourself with its traditional decor and street-food vibe, perfect for a casual meal or catch-up. Dive into a diverse menu featuring classic ramen styles like rich Tonkotsu and spicy Miso, with customizable noodle textures. Explore flavorful rice bowls, crispy karaage, and savory gyoza. While generally praised for quick and friendly service, expect potential waits during peak hours. Hakoya offers satisfying, well-priced Japanese comfort food, bringing a genuine taste of Japan to the city.

Little Ramen Bar

369 Little Collins St, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

4.2(1418 reviews)

Little Ramen Bar offers a delightful taste of authentic Japanese ramen in the heart of Melbourne. Praised for its unique, fresh broths and perfectly cooked, elastic noodles, this cozy spot focuses on quality ingredients and traditional preparation. Highlights include their signature ramen with generous toppings like chashu, gooey egg, and bamboo shoots, alongside handmade gyoza. While some reviews mention a thin or bland broth, many praise the flavorful, filling portions and quick, friendly service. It's a great choice for a satisfying, authentic ramen experience, with options for dine-in or takeaway.

RAMEN IPPUDO QV

18 Artemis Ln, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

4.2(1380 reviews)

Experience authentic Japanese ramen at Ippudo Melbourne, a globally celebrated chain known for its rich, flavorful broths like the popular Akamaru. Customize your noodles to your preferred firmness and savor tender chashu and perfectly cooked eggs. Beyond exceptional ramen, their highly-praised pork buns (bao) and crispy chicken karaage are must-tries. Enjoy the modern, spacious, and trendy Asian-inspired ambiance, complemented by generally friendly and efficient service. With vegan options available, Ippudo offers a consistently delicious and satisfying dining experience for ramen lovers seeking quality and authentic taste.

Ikkoryu Fukuoka Ramen

27 Russell St, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

4.2(1315 reviews)

Discover authentic Fukuoka-style ramen at this beloved Melbourne CBD spot. Dive into a rich, customizable Tonkotsu broth, from classic original to bold Black Garlic and bright Yuzu. Choose your perfect noodle texture and broth richness, with free extra noodles (kaedama) to satisfy any craving. Savory sides like crispy chicken karaage and flavorful pork gyoza complement the premium ramen experience. While prices are premium, the meticulous preparation, house-made noodles, and extensive customization options deliver a truly authentic and deeply satisfying bowl. The modern, relaxed basement ambiance makes it ideal for both solo diners and groups seeking a top-tier ramen adventure.

Mr Tall Pork Noodles City

Level 1/267 Little Lonsdale St, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

4.2(466 reviews)

Experience authentic Malaysian comfort food at this vibrant noodle spot. Celebrated for its flavorful pork noodle soups, dry versions, and rich Bak Kut Teh, it's a taste of home for many. Customers rave about the delicious, comforting broths, generous portions, and authentic flavors, perfect for any day. Explore a variety of noodle dishes, including the highly-praised Chilli Pan Mee, from spicy options to classic herbal soups. The clean, casual atmosphere provides a welcoming setting for a satisfying meal. Experience genuine Malaysian cuisine with great value.

Mr Ramen San

344 Little Bourke St, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

4.2(237 reviews)

Discover Mr Ramen San, a beloved Melbourne spot celebrated for its rich, flavorful broths and generous portions. Praised for its authentic Japanese ramen experience, the restaurant offers a variety of styles, including a popular spicy tonkotsu and a well-regarded vegan option. Diners rave about the free noodle top-ups, making it excellent value. While some find the broth mild or noodles thin, many highlight the deliciousness and quick, friendly service. It's a go-to for a satisfying, comforting bowl, perfect for a quick lunch or a cozy meal.

Mensousai Mugen

11 Bligh Pl, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

4.1(689 reviews)

Discover Mugen Ramen, a hidden gem in Melbourne's laneways, celebrated for its authentic Japanese tsukemen (dipping ramen). Experience a unique culinary journey with their flavorful broths, from rich Wafu to spicy curry, paired with perfectly chewy, house-made noodles. The dimly lit, cosy atmosphere, often featuring Samurai Noir films, creates a mysterious and aesthetically pleasing dining experience. While service can be fast, reviews suggest potential for long waits and occasional inconsistencies. Mugen offers a distinct, high-quality ramen adventure, making it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic taste beyond the typical.

Isshin Ramen Bar

349 Elizabeth St, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

4.0(614 reviews)

This Melbourne CBD spot offers a mix of ramen and sushi, with a focus on affordability and quick service. While some reviews mention a lack of richness in the ramen broth or a "tasteless" quality, others praise the "perfectly chewy" noodles and "tasty" black garlic or signature pork broths. The menu includes various ramen styles, with some customers recommending the signature ramen or black garlic broth. The restaurant is noted for its convenient location and good value, making it a popular choice for a quick, budget-friendly meal. However, be aware of mixed feedback on broth flavor and occasional service issues.

Noodle Villa Melbourne CBD

281 Elizabeth St, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

4.0(233 reviews)

Discover authentic Chinese noodle soup at this bustling eatery, specializing in hearty rice noodle bowls. Savor rich, flavorful broths, particularly the popular spicy lamb and beef options, perfectly complemented by springy noodles. Enhance your meal with a variety of self-serve pickled vegetables. Praised for its great value and quick service, it's a go-to destination for a satisfying and warming culinary experience that consistently draws in diners seeking genuine, comforting flavors.

Tina's Noodle Kitchen

237 Swanston St, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

3.9(1268 reviews)

Savor authentic Sichuan-style clay pot rice noodles at Tina's Noodle Kitchen, a bustling Melbourne hotspot celebrated for its incredibly generous portions and bold, flavorful broths. Dive into dishes like tender beef with tomato or intensely spicy Chongqing Chicken, all served piping hot in traditional clay pots for a hearty, satisfying meal. While the atmosphere is lively and service can be inconsistent, the sheer volume of food and authentic, robust flavors—especially the spicy options—make it a must-try for noodle enthusiasts seeking great value.

Menya Ramen Elizabeth

437-439 Elizabeth St, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

3.8(1145 reviews)

A popular spot for authentic Japanese flavors, this casual eatery is celebrated for its signature Gyutan Don (Ox Tongue Rice Bowl), offering a delicious and generously portioned experience at great value. While the menu features a variety of ramen and other Japanese dishes, the Gyutan Don is a consistent crowd-pleaser. Enjoy speedy service and a lively atmosphere, complete with a unique UK Garage and deep house soundtrack. It's an ideal destination for a quick, filling, and affordable meal, especially for students seeking a satisfying taste of Japan.

Ajisen Ramen

Shop GD 13, Melbourne Central, 211 La Trobe St, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

3.8(657 reviews)

This Japanese eatery offers a diverse menu with a focus on ramen, featuring various broths like tonkotsu, miso, and shoyu, alongside other Asian-inspired dishes. While some diners praise the flavorful broths and generous portions, others note inconsistent quality, with complaints about blandness, oiliness, or tough meat. The restaurant utilizes iPad ordering, and while the ambiance is described as nice and clean, customer service reviews are notably mixed, with several instances of rude or inattentive staff. It's a spot for reliable Japanese comfort food, but be prepared for potential service issues and varying food quality.

Shujinko Melbourne Central

Shop 257, Level 2 Melbourne Central La Trobe and, Swanston St, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

3.8(66 reviews)

Shujinko offers a comforting and accessible ramen experience in Melbourne Central, known for its rich, creamy broths and generous portions. While the signature Shujinko Ramen is a solid choice with tender, smoky chashu and a perfectly cooked egg, some find the broth could benefit from more complexity. The Miso and Karakuchi Ramen are also popular, with the latter noted for its flavor. They offer vegetarian options and a variety of sides like crispy chicken karaage, takoyaki, and flavorful rice bowls. Service is generally efficient and friendly, and their dedicated dining space provides a welcome respite from the busy food court.

Menya Ramen Melbourne Central

Melbourne Central Shopping Centre, LaTrobe Street & Swanston Streets, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

3.5(323 reviews)

Savor generous portions of authentic Japanese comfort food at this bustling eatery, celebrated for its signature Gyutandon (ox tongue bowl) – a must-try for its rich flavor and incredible value. While ramen and udon reviews vary, diners consistently praise the large, affordable servings of dishes like Unagi Don and Katsu. Known for its quick service, it's an ideal spot for a fast, filling meal. Perfect for students and budget-conscious food lovers seeking a satisfying bite, this no-frills establishment delivers on taste and portion size, making it a popular choice for a quick culinary fix.

Menya Ramen Galleria

shop B07/385 Bourke St, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

3.1(39 reviews)

Discover Menya Ramen, a hidden gem in Galleria Plaza, celebrated for its exceptional value and generous portions of authentic Japanese cuisine. While ramen is on the menu, diners rave about their flavorful rice bowls, including the popular Unagi Don and Beef Tongue Don, alongside unique crispy Karaage Kushi (octopus skewers). The truly standout feature is the incredibly friendly and accommodating staff, who have been known to go above and beyond, even cooking meals after kitchen hours. Expect a relaxed atmosphere and prompt service, though peak times may mean a short wait. It's the ideal spot for a satisfying, budget-friendly Japanese meal.

Ramen Restaurants in Melbourne