Best ramen in Melbourne: Top 10 spots

Ramen has become a popular comfort food in Melbourne, attracting foodies with its rich broth, precisely cooked noodles, and flavorful toppings. From traditional tonkotsu to vegan options, the city is teeming with superb ramen eateries ready to satisfy your cravings.

Here’s a locals’ guide to best ramen in Melbourne, featuring old favourites, hidden gems, and inventive twists chosen with Aussie tastes in mind.

Hakata Gensuke: Fukuoka Taste at its Best

Hakata Gensuke, located on Russell Street in Melbourne’s CBD, is widely regarded as the best tonkotsu ramen in the city. Their house-made noodles are served to your specified level of hardness, and their broth is simmered for hours to achieve a creamy, rich consistency.

Should-try:

• Traditional Tonkotsu
• Tonkotsu and black sesame
• For spice lovers, the fiery “God Fire”

Ramen enthusiasts all throughout the city consistently rate it as authentic, quick, and finest.

Mensho Tokyo has Michelin-approved quality

Mensho Tokyo also provides a luxurious touch to Melbourne’s ramen scene on Russell Street. This Michelin-starred Japanese restaurant is well-known for its tori paitan ramen, a rich chicken broth topped with duck chashu and handmade noodles.

Though the 28-seat eatery fills up quickly, every slurp is worth the wait.

Ippudo – Global ramen legend with local flair

Ippudo, which is well-known around the world, has made its mark in Melbourne with their characteristic Akamaru Shinaji ramen. This bowl, topped with soft pork belly and crisp bean sprouts, mixes 25 years of Tonkotsu broth perfection with miso paste and garlic oil.

It’s the ideal combination of tradition and modern culinary ability, making it ideal for both ramen newcomers and veterans.

Mr. Ramen San: Affordable and excellent

Mr. Ramen San, located in Mid-City Arcade, is a popular choice due to its affordable prices and authentic Hakata-style ramen. The tonkotsu broth, simmered for 24 hours, is served with house-made noodles.

As a bonus, they offer vegetarian and vegan options to ensure inclusivity.

Gogyo: unforgettable, bold, and smoky

Gogyo in Fitzroy is the place to go if you’re looking for something distinctive. Kogashi miso ramen, which scorches the miso to reveal intense, smoky flavours, is their best dish. The result is a warm, rich, and detailed bowl.

Their Wagyu Yakuza ramen, which features burnt Master Kobe Wagyu, adds to the menu’s luxurious feel.

Shop Ramen: Big Flavours and Clean Environment

Smith Street’s Shop Ramen combines simplicity with excellent ramen creations. This Fitzroy gem uses local ingredients and caters to both meat eaters and vegans with a rotating menu of traditional and creative bowls.

The shop is an excellent stop if you want well-balanced flavours away from the usual rush and bustle.

Shujinko – Ramen anytime, 24/7

Whether you’re ending a night out or craving noodles at 3 a.m., Shujinko on Russell Street caters to your needs. It’s popular for its consistently great tonkotsu ramen and quick, friendly service, which is available 24 hours a day.

This position is helpful for Melbourne’s late-night foodies.

Parco Ramen – Cosy, creative and satisfying

Parco Ramen in Moonee Ponds has a warm and welcoming atmosphere and serves innovative bowls such as truffle-infused ramen and hand-pulled noodles. Their meticulousness and fusion-friendly attitude make this suburban favourite well worth the trip.

Dojo Ramen Bar – A vegan-friendly haven

Dojo Ramen Bar in Northcote is known for its diverse menu. Aside from traditional shoyu and miso ramen, they offer completely vegan options that are as umami-rich as their carnivorous counterparts.

Expect a relaxing atmosphere, outstanding service, and some of the most delicious plant-based broths available.

Misoya Sake Bar: Celebrating Miso’s Full Potential

Misoya Sake Bar in Brunswick focuses on miso ramen. Vege Miso Ramen, made with egg noodles, green beans, and maize, is popular among health-conscious clients. It’s the ideal balance between flavour, health, and lightness.

This dish is an excellent choice for those seeking an alternative to the typical tonkotsu-heavy dishes.

Conclusion

Melbourne’s ramen scene is evolving from creamy tonkotsu classics to smoky miso creations. These ten restaurants provide something for everyone’s taste and budget, whether you prefer traditional Japanese cuisine or want to try new combinations.