Where to find the best ramen in Shinjuku: our 19 best spots

Here are the best spots for eating ramen in Shinjuku, including prices, how to get there, and suggestions on what to order in each ramen restaurant!

In the heart of Tokyo, where the hustle of the city never seems to wane, lies Shinjuku – a district renowned not just for its vibrant nightlife and bustling streets, but for being the epicenter of a culinary phenomenon that has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of both locals and travelers alike: ramen.

This iconic noodle soup, a cornerstone of Japanese cuisine, finds its zenith here, making Shinjuku one of the best places to eat ramen in Tokyo.

The diversity of ramen in Shinjuku is unparalleled, ranging from the rich and creamy tonkotsu broth to the delicate and tangy shoyu, and everything in between.

Here, every ramen shop, from the hole-in-the-wall joints to the more established chains, tells a unique story through its bowl.

Wondering where to eat the best ramen in Shinjuku? Here are our top picks:

1. Ichiran Ramen: best ramen in Shinjuku

Ichiran Ramen is renowned for offering some of the best tonkotsu ramen in Shinjuku, with a unique focus on the individual dining experience. Its booths are designed for solo diners, allowing for a personal and introspective enjoyment of their meal.

The tonkotsu ramen, with its creamy, rich pork broth, is a must-try!

Ichiran Ramen is easily accessible from Shinjuku Station, located within walking distance, making it a convenient stop for anyone exploring the area.

2. Ramen Nagi: best small ramen joint

Ramen Nagi in the Shinjuku Golden-gai area offers an exceptional ramen dining experience, known for its innovative approach to the classic dish.

The Shinjuku Golden-gai Honkan location stands out with its signature “Butao King” ramen, a rich and flavorful pork broth that’s become a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Explore the Golden-gai area before or after your meal for a glimpse into Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife and history. The closest station is Shinjuku-Sanchome Station, just a short walk away from the Golden-gai district.

3. Ichiran Shinjuku Kabuki-cho: best 24-hour Shinjuku ramen

Ichiran Shinjuku Kabuki-cho caters to night owls exploring Tokyo’s most lively entertainment district. Like its counterparts, it specializes in customizable tonkotsu ramen served in individual booths.

This location’s atmosphere adds to the experience, offering a haven of tranquility amidst the bustling Kabuki-cho nightlife. Consider visiting after a night out in Kabuki-cho for a comforting end to your evening.

Located near Seibu-Shinjuku Station, it’s easily accessible for anyone enjoying the nightlife in Kabuki-cho, providing a late-night dining option.

4. Ebisoba Ichigen Shinjuku

Ebisoba Ichigen brings a unique seafood twist to ramen in Shinjuku, with its shrimp broth ramen being a standout dish. The combination of rich, flavorful shrimp broth and perfectly cooked noodles offers a memorable dining experience for seafood and ramen lovers alike.

Pair your shrimp broth ramen with a side of shrimp tempura for the complete experience! This restaurant is conveniently located near Shinjuku Station, making it easily accessible for anyone looking to enjoy a unique take on ramen in the heart of Tokyo.

5. Ippudo Lumine Est Shinjuku

Ippudo Lumine Est Shinjuku offers a refreshing take on ramen in Shinjuku, especially with its vegan ramen options, making it a unique destination for both vegans and non-vegans alike.

The vegan ramen is a standout, featuring a rich, flavorful broth that doesn’t compromise on taste despite its lack of animal products. It’s accompanied by perfectly cooked noodles and a variety of fresh, vibrant toppings that add to its appeal.

After enjoying your meal, take some time to explore the Lumine Est mall. It’s a great opportunity to walk off the ramen and indulge in some shopping or even dessert at one of the many stores and sweet shops within the mall.

The easiest way to get to Ippudo Lumine Est Shinjuku is by getting off at Shinjuku Station, which serves numerous lines including the JR lines, the Keio line, and the Odakyu line.

6. Ramen Tatsunoya Shinjuku

Ramen Tatsunoya Shinjuku is renowned for its rich and savory tonkotsu (pork bone) broth, marking its place as a premier destination for ramen in Shinjuku.

Their specialty ramen, the Koku Tonkotsu, is highly recommended, featuring a deep, complex broth that’s both creamy and intensely flavorful, topped with tender char siu, green onions, and seasoned eggs.

Try to visit during off-peak hours to avoid long waits and to enjoy a more leisurely dining experience. Additionally, asking for extra garlic can add an even deeper flavor profile to their already delicious broth!

Ramen Tatsunoya is most conveniently accessed from Shinjuku-Sanchome Station, making it a straightforward stop for anyone traveling via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, Marunouchi Line, or Shinjuku Line.

7. Ramen Jirou Shinjuku-Kabukicho: cheapest ramen in Shinjuku

Ramen Jirou Shinjuku-Kabukicho is a cult favorite among locals and visitors for its distinctive approach to ramen in Shinjuku. Known for its hearty portions and unique, garlicky soy-based broth, it caters to those with a big appetite and a love for bold flavors.

The Jirou-style ramen, characterized by its thick noodles, generous heaps of bean sprouts, cabbage, and slices of pork, is a must-try for anyone seeking an unconventional ramen experience.

Be prepared for a queue, as its popularity means there’s often a wait. To make the most of this, consider it part of the experience and use the time to build up your appetite.

This ramen restaurant is easily accessible from Seibu-Shinjuku Station, nestled in the heart of Kabukicho, making it a convenient dining option after exploring Tokyo’s most famous entertainment district.

8. Shinjuku Ramen Hayashida

Shinjuku Ramen Hayashida stands out for its exceptional dedication to crafting the perfect bowl of ramen in Shinjuku.

It specializes in a lighter, yet flavorful shoyu (soy sauce) based broth that appeals to those who prefer a less heavy meal. Their signature shoyu ramen, with its clear, aromatic broth and tender noodles, offers a refined taste that distinguishes it from the richer tonkotsu and miso-based ramens.

For a truly local experience, try their seasonal specials that incorporate fresh, local ingredients, offering a unique taste of Japan’s seasonal flavors.

Shinjuku Ramen Hayashida is a short walk from Shinjuku-Gyoemmae Station on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, making it an easy stop for a delicious meal while exploring the area’s attractions.

9. Ramen Takahashi Shinjuku Main Store

Ramen Takahashi, with its main store in Shinjuku, is celebrated for offering some of the best ramen in Shinjuku, thanks to its dedication to quality ingredients and traditional ramen-making techniques.

Situated conveniently near Shinjuku Station, Ramen Takahashi has garnered a loyal following for its sublime soy sauce-based ramen. The broth is a perfect blend of flavors that’s both rich and nuanced, paired with springy, well-crafted noodles.

One of their most popular dishes is the classic Shoyu Ramen, which is highly recommended for first-time visitors. Don’t miss out on their seasonal specials, which often feature limited-time ingredients that provide a unique twist on their classic ramen.

The Shinjuku Main Store is easily accessible from Shinjuku Station, making it a convenient option for both locals and travelers looking to experience authentic, delicious ramen.

10. Ramen Nagi Nishi-Shinjuku

Ramen Nagi Nishi-Shinjuku offers an unforgettable experience for anyone seeking innovative ramen in Shinjuku. This branch of the popular Ramen Nagi chain is famous for its “King” series, each offering a unique flavor profile.

The standout is the Black King, a rich soup infused with squid ink, providing an intense and unforgettable flavor. Be adventurous with the condiments and seasonings available at your table to customize your bowl to your taste preferences!

Ramen Nagi Nishi-Shinjuku is most conveniently reached from Nishi-Shinjuku Station on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, nestled in a business district that’s easily accessible for a lunch break or dinner after exploring the area.

11. Tokyo Tonkotsu Ramen Bankara Shinjuku Kabukicho

Tokyo Tonkotsu Ramen Bankara in Shinjuku Kabukicho is a standout for its commitment to the rich, pork-based broth that defines tonkotsu ramen.

This restaurant is a favorite for those searching for authentic ramen in Shinjuku, offering a broth that’s both creamy and packed with umami, complemented by their signature chewy noodles.

The Tonkotsu Ramen is a must-try, embodying the essence of what makes Bankara a beloved spot among ramen lovers. After a late night in Kabukicho, Bankara is the perfect spot to refuel with their hearty ramen, making it a favorite post-night-out dining option.

Situated in the heart of Kabukicho, Tokyo Tonkotsu Ramen Bankara is easily accessible from Seibu-Shinjuku Station.

12. Kaijin Ramen Shinjuku

Ramen Kaijin, located near Shinjuku Station, elevates ramen in Shinjuku with its seafood-based broth, a delightful alternative to the more common pork or chicken broths.

Their clear, yet flavor-packed soup is a testament to the chef’s mastery in extracting flavors, offering a lighter but equally satisfying option. The Seafood Ramen, loaded with fresh seafood, stands out for its delicate balance of flavors, making it a popular choice among patrons.

Ask for the “ajitama” (seasoned egg) to add an extra layer of flavor to your ramen, perfectly complementing the seafood broth. Ramen Kaijin is just a short walk from Shinjuku Station.

13. Shinjuku Ramen Zundou-ya

Ramen Zundou-ya offers a quintessential experience for those seeking authentic ramen in Shinjuku, specializing in the rich, savory flavors of Kyushu-style tonkotsu ramen.

Their dedication to quality is evident in the creamy, pork-based broth and the perfectly chewy, thin noodles that absorb the broth’s complexity. A must-try is their classic tonkotsu ramen, which can be customized with various toppings to suit individual tastes.

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding their homemade spicy miso paste to your ramen. Ramen Zundou-ya is conveniently located near Shinjuku-Sanchome Station.

14. Hakata Tenjin Shinjuku Higashi-guchi

Hakata Tenjin Shinjuku Higashi-guchi brings the flavors of Fukuoka to the heart of Tokyo, specializing in Hakata-style tonkotsu ramen.

Known for its rich, milky pork bone broth and thin, firm noodles, it provides a genuine taste of southern Japan right in Shinjuku. Their signature dish, the classic Hakata Tonkotsu Ramen, is highly recommended for its simplicity and depth of flavor.

Don’t hesitate to ask for a noodle refill if you haven’t finished your broth, a common practice in Hakata ramen culture.

Just a short walk from Shinjuku Station’s East Exit, Hakata Tenjin is perfectly positioned for both locals and visitors craving authentic tonkotsu ramen after a day in the city.

15. Afuri Karakurenai Shinjuku Subnade

Afuri Karakurenai stands out in the Shinjuku ramen scene for its unique approach to ramen, featuring a lighter, citrus-infused broth that provides a refreshing alternative to the heavier pork-based broths.

Their specialty, the Yuzu Shio Ramen, is a must-try, offering a delightful blend of flavors that’s both invigorating and satisfying. Afuri’s focus on using high-quality, natural ingredients appeals to a broad range of diners, including those looking for a healthier ramen option.

Try their seasonal ramen for a unique twist on their standard offerings, often incorporating fresh, local ingredients. Located within the Shinjuku Subnade shopping arcade, Afuri Karakurenai is easily accessible from Shinjuku Station.

16. Tokyo Aburagumi Sohonten Nishi-Shinjuku

Tokyo Aburagumi Sohonten in Nishi-Shinjuku is a gem for those in pursuit of exquisite abura soba, or “oil noodles,” a broth-less ramen variant that has captivated the palates of many.

This establishment elevates abura soba to new heights with its richly flavored sauce, perfectly balanced with the chewiness of the noodles, and topped with succulent pieces of pork, scallions, and bamboo shoots.

The specialty here, their signature Abura Soba, is a testament to the rich culinary tradition of ramen in Shinjuku. Tokyo Aburagumi Sohonten is conveniently located near Nishi-Shinjuku Station.

17. Ore no Sora Shinjuku

Ore no Sora Shinjuku distinguishes itself with a focus on tsukemen, or dipping ramen, offering a robust and flavorful broth for dipping thick, chewy noodles.

The standout feature here is the depth and intensity of the dip, which often combines fish and pork broths for a complex flavor profile. Their signature dish is a must-try for tsukemen enthusiasts and those looking to explore different facets of ramen in Shinjuku.

If you find yourself with leftover dip, ask the staff to add some hot water, turning it into a delicious soup to enjoy after your noodles. Situated a short walk from Shinjuku Station, Ore no Sora is accessible for anyone venturing through Tokyo’s busiest transport hub.

18. Soushi Menya Musashi

Soushi Menya Musashi, located near Shinjuku Station, has earned acclaim for its innovative approach to ramen, offering a variety of broth options that cater to all tastes.

Whether you’re in the mood for a rich, creamy tonkotsu, a light and tangy shoyu, or a spicy miso, Soushi Menya Musashi has something to offer.

Their dedication to crafting the perfect bowl of ramen, with carefully selected ingredients and masterful techniques, ensures a memorable dining experience for every guest.

Don’t miss their limited-time offerings, which often feature unique ingredients and flavors not found in their regular menu.

Just a few minutes’ walk from Shinjuku Station, Soushi Menya Musashi is conveniently located for a quick lunch break or a heavy dinner.