Ramen has become increasingly popular in recent years. In the past, ramen is only available in Japan and perhaps some other renowned cities such as New York, London, or Orchard Singapore. The dish closest to a ramen would be Udon and Soba noodles. Though not exactly the same, those were the only Japanese noodles available to our local market. Ever since the year 2010, ramen-specialized restaurants and companies from Japan have started mushrooming in Malaysia. The problem is, which the notable ones are and which aren’t. Hence, here is a list of the best ramen places in Kuala Lumpur.

#1 Kanbe Japenese Restaurant

Our top spot for the best ramen in KL goes to Kanbe Japanese restaurant. With 7 soups served as options, each of the soups does not disappoint. If you are a first-timer here, we recommend the Shirobe as your base. The varieties of soup (Shiro - pork bone, Aka -  spiced up, Kurobe - with squid ink, Kohaku - the ramen version of surf and turf, Sakura -  with the essence of prawn, Yuzu - refreshing citrus and Goma - roasted sesame) is beautiful in color, packed with flavor and accompanied with authentic chewy ramen noodles and tender and unforgettable roasted chasu that has been marinated in soy sauce overnight.  The ramen served here will make you come back for more!

#2 Marutama

Marutama Ramen, the one with the Basketball-like logo, with 2 branches – one in Fahrenheit 88 and the other in Empire Subang, serves simple yet delicious ramen. Like most ramen joints, the key to a good ramen is 3 things. The consistency and springiness of noodles, depth of flavor of the broth, and fresh additional ingredients such as char siew or boiled egg. All of which was what Marutama could offer.

#3 Ippudo Ramen

It was founded in 1985 in Japan’s ramen capital of Hakata by Shigemi Kawahara and was awarded the Ramen King title in 2005. Ippudo Ramen has over 65 stores in Japan, New York, Sydney, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, South Korea, Shanghai, and finally, Malaysia. Serving intense flavors, creamy broth, consistent noodles, and a cozy ambiance, was what earned Ippudo Ramen its global acclaim.

#4 Bankara Ramen

Tokyo’s ramen specialist has finally arrived in Malaysia several months ago, alongside the opening of Avenue K. With more than 60 outlets across Japan, this Tokyo-based restaurant is prepared to serve the ramen lovers of Malaysia. They are serving 4 types of specialty which include Tokyo style, Hakata style, Sapporo style, and Tsukemen.

Hokkaido Ramen Santouka can be titled one of the priciest Ramen in KL. Furthermore, their approach towards the Tonkotsu broth is slightly different. Unlike many, Hokkaido Ramen Santouka actually focuses more on the balance and lightness of flavor instead of the strong, bold, and aromatic kind. Furthermore, quite a number of their ingredients are imported from the main kitchen in Japan as well.

#7 Ichiban Boshi

Ichiban Boshi, a restaurant similar to what Sushi King offers but at a higher standard and grade. Serving a variety of Japanese dishes ranging from Sushi to Bentos and of course, Ramen. Though ramen is not exactly their forte, it’s pretty decent.
 

#8 Torazou Ramen

Japanese food often holds a stigma for being expensive and all, but here at Torazou, they do a good job serving you affordable ramen. You must be imagining a little bowl of soup and noodles now, fret not, the ramen comes in generous portions with hearty toppings as well.

#9 Edo Ramen

Affordable, quick, and simply delicious – Edo Ramen caters to the busy world of business within the Midvalley vicinity. The price starts at RM9.90 for a small bowl of ramen and can go up to RM18.90. Despite the affordability, Edo Ramen serves a pretty decent bowl of noodles alongside flavourful broth. Unlike what most might think, cheap equals bad, does not apply here.

Thinking of slurping down some flavorful wet noodles? Fret not as Haru Tei is here for your cravings! Nestled in the neighborhood town of Setapak, this restaurant is bringing authentic affordable Japanese street food to the game! They specialize in ramen and Don (Japanese rice bowls) specifically while boasting an authentic way of preparation for the ultimate ramen in Japan experience!