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A great bowl of ramen is one of the most satisfying cheap meals in London, and the city's ramen scene has grown from a handful of pioneers into a genuine strength. This guide points you to the best bowls, from silky tonkotsu to lighter shoyu and shio.
The ramen destinations
Kanada-Ya is many Londoners' first choice for a rich, milky tonkotsu, with queues to match, and Bone Daddies brought a rock-and-roll energy and creative bowls to Soho and beyond. Tonkotsu makes its own noodles across several branches, and Shoryu is a dependable central option. In Brixton, Nanban from a former MasterChef winner offers a distinctive, punchy take.
Beyond the bowl
Ramen sits within a wider world of Japanese noodles and comfort food worth exploring. Koya in Soho is the standard-bearer for udon, thick and springy in a delicate broth, and the katsu curry and rice bowls at the same casual spots make a fine alternative if the ramen queue is long. Most ramen bars are walk-in and quick, ideal for a solo or spontaneous meal.
What is the difference between tonkotsu and shoyu ramen?
Tonkotsu is a rich, cloudy broth made from pork bones simmered for hours, the style behind London favourites like Kanada-Ya. Shoyu is a lighter, soy-based broth, and shio is a clear, salt-based one. Most London ramen bars offer several styles, so you can pick by how rich you want your bowl.
Do ramen bars in London take bookings?
Most are walk-in only and turn tables quickly, which is part of their appeal. Popular spots like Kanada-Ya can have queues at peak times, so arriving just before or after the lunch and dinner rush is the trick.
Where to go next
Explore the wider best Japanese restaurants in London and the best sushi in London, or find more cheap, brilliant food in the best restaurants in London.
