The Shinjuku area is packed with popular ramen spots, especially around Shinjuku and Takadanobaba Stations. Just one stop away on the JR Chuo Rapid Line, Yotsuya—where the att.JAPAN editorial office is located—is also home to many well-loved ramen shops. In this feature, our ramen-loving editor at att.JAPAN introduces the top picks in Shinjuku and Yotsuya!
Writer: Y. S.
After four years of college in one of Tokyo’s most fiercely competitive ramen districts, I’ve now been slurping my way through town for two decades. From classic hits to mind-blowing heat, every day is a new adventure!
Top pick near Shinjuku Station Yakiago Shio Ramen Takahashi, Shinjuku Main Store
The grilled flying fish known as “yakiago” is the secret “dashi” in this famed golden broth. Toppings include two types of chashu (braised pork) and crunchy bamboo shoots on a bed of perfectly paired wavy noodles. Add rice at the end for a grand finale.
Business hours
Mon-Thur 11:00-23:15, Fri 11:00–28:00, Sat 10:00–28:00, Sun/Holidays 10:00-23:15
Top pick near Takadanobaba Station Tonkotsu Ramen Hakata Furyu Takadanobaba
Right in front of the Waseda exit of JR Takadanobaba Station, this Hakata ramen spot has legions of fans. Pork bone broth matched with extremely thin noodles is what sets Hakata ramen apart. Many such shops offer a “kaedama” (second serving of noodles) for free, and this shop offers up to two refills on the house. Feel free to choose your ideal level of “al dente,” but if you’re not sure, you can’t go wrong with “futsuu” (regular).
Business hours
Mon-Sat 11:00-26:00, Sun. 11:00-20:00 (if Monday is a national holiday, open Sunday until 26:00 and Monday until 20:00)
Top picks near Yotsuya Station Chinese Noodle Koya
This well-established shop has served ramen for over four decades. The Wonton Noodle bowl is the king of the signature dish here, featuring five dumplings packed with plenty of juicy meat. Choosing from a wide variety of ramen options is also tons of fun, from toppings of tangy takana veggies to braised pork. (Koya is on the 1st floor and Halal Ramen is in the basement of the same building)
Top picks near Yotsuya Station HALAL WAGYU RAMEN SHINJUKU-TEI Tokyo Yotsuya
Muslim guests can feast on ramen here with total peace of mind. The soup made from chicken and bonito stock gets added zest from all Halal certified seasonings. Toppings include chicken chashu and sliced wagyu beef. Also, be sure to try the optional fried chicken, a true treat for the tastebuds! (In the basement of the same building as Koya)
Top picks near Yotsuya Station Chuka Soba Yamashita
Winner of one of the ramen world’s most prestigious awards. The signature dish here is ramen with broth made from dried sardine stock, served a choice of either the standard or extra-rich soup. The springy texture of the noodles is an ideal match for the broth, while the crunchy chopped onions are a chuckle and leave you wanting more!
Among the multitude of eateries in Yotsuya’s Arakicho area, is this rare breed of ramen shop specializing in sea urchin. The broth, imbued with the umami of this mysterious marine life, adds a sumptuous coating over the extra thick, wavy noodles. Hardcore fans can also add sea urchin as a topping. Personally, I like it best topped with “iwanori” rock seaweed, which adds the scent of the seashore.
Business hours
Wed, Thur, Fri 11:30-14:30, 17:00-21:00, Sat, Sun, and holidays 11:30-15:30
