The best ramen in Austin

The obscurely located Ramen Tatsu-ya single-handedly inspired the Austin ramen craze. The eateries cooks its tonkotsu for three days for a depth and richness of flavor that has earned it lots of praise. Custom noodles, tender chashu, marinated egg and woodear mushrooms for the traditionalist; if you’re more adventurous, add a corn bomb, a spicy bomb or yuzu kosho bomb. Their dedication to perfection and willingness to experiment has earned it the trust of patrons. 

Michi Ramen, more accessible than other more traditional ramen spots, boasts a big open space, a comfortable patio and a happy hour worth arriving early for. The variety of toppings and different broth options available make this a must-visit (bonus points: craft beer, sake and wine are part of the menu as well). Folks looking for a unique twist on their food should order the Texas ramen, which comes complete with a rib, smoked corn, coleslaw and Texas toast.

Eschewing the pork base, Daruma specializes in whole chicken broth ramen made with eggless tapioca-based noodles. Boasting a full-scratch kitchen in a sleek, modern space, the 6th street location is quite small and offers only communal tables. Diners will choose one of four options: shio, shoyu, miso and vegetable (vegan). You might want to call ahead for a reservation and to make sure they’re offering a daily specialty item.

Though it primarily serves sushi, Kome was one of the first eateries to offer ramen in Austin. The owners both hail from Japan and approach the ramen with the same care. The restaurant itself is lovely and intimate, the perfect setting for a bowl of steaming soup. Only served during lunch, there are three ramen options: miso, tonkotsu and vegan miso. Add kimchi or a spicy base to mix it up.

Soto is located near Lakeline mall in Cedar Park. Here you’ll find a vast array of sushi and creative Japanese dishes, among them a build-your-own ramen. Choose your broth, your noodle (udon is also an option) and main toppings. These include grilled beef, shoyu, seafood, grilled chicken, shrimp or vegetable tempura. Served with a house salad and primarily at lunch, you might be able to convince the staff to serve it to you for dinner as well. 

Formerly a beloved sushi spot, the original location of Hanabi now specializes in ramen and bento boxes. Choose between six different ramen options, all with relatively traditional broths. Non-ramen lovers can devour a variety of bento boxes, including the crispy flounder, calamari and chicken karaage.

“No ramen, no life” is Jinya Ramen’s motto. The California-born eatery serves thick, rich broth with handmade noodles that are aged before being cooked and served. To keep the broth free from impurities, the staff uses Fiji water—and we’re all for that. The extensive menu offers over 25 ramen add-ins, including Brussels sprouts and garlic galore. In the mood for something different? Feel free to order tapas, rice bowls and curry as well.

Although Xian Sushi & Noodle serves a single ramen dish (shoyu ramen), the hand-pulled noodles are worth a visit. The centuries-old Chinese tradition of pressing and pulling softens the gluten and gives the noodles a remarkable texture and freshness. Waiting for a table? Enjoy the fantastic happy hour.

Shabu is the place of your noodle dreams. This north Austin gem is tucked way back in a corner spot off Anderson lane. Walk into an elegant, modern ambience with a semi-open kitchen, hanging edison bulbs and look at the semi-visible chefs at work. The ramen here boasts a Chinese flair—barbecue pork with oyster mushrooms, snow peas, green onions and (Japanese) ramen noodles.

North Austin is quickly becoming a haven for ramen of all types and Kanji is a welcome addition to that scene. It’s counter-service with a short but interesting menu featuring eight kinds of ramen and ten small dishes. Broths range from pork bone to miso to veggie. Spicy k-pop ramen, sukiyaki ramen and Murukai ramen are ideal orders if you’re looking for a little excitement in your perfect ramen pursuit. The eatery also offers a kids menu for your little culinary expert.

Like many Japanese restaurants in Austin, Yanagi is actually owned by Koreans. Instead of the thick, meaty pork broth, this spot opts for a Korean ramen that consists of a red miso base (spicy or mild options available). Lest you be taken aback, the color is a bright crimson. The bowl is topped with squash, onion, Kimchi and carrots with the traditional Chashu and marinated egg present as well.