top of page

The 5 AM Ramen Blog
Welcome to the 5AM Ramen Blog — where Japan's best ramen isn't just ranked, it's experienced. From tiny Tokyo counters to snow-covered Sapporo shops, exploring the bowls that matter — the classics, the innovators, and the shops locals line up for. Reviews, deep dives, and real ramen culture from someone who lives it.


Outstanding Chicken Ramen in Sangenjaya: Garyu
For ramen in Sangenjaya, Menya Garyu (麺屋 臥龍) is first-rate. Their additive-free chicken ramen is as clean tasting as it is scrumptious....
Aug 21, 20191 min read


Chuka Soba Ranchu: Kingly Niboshi Ramen
In the car-friendly suburb of Honancho, ramen shop Chuka Soba Ranchu reigns supreme. Their five-star niboshi ramen has a big nod from...
Aug 19, 20191 min read


10 Best Shibuya Ramen Shops: Classic to Modern
These are the very best Shibuya ramen shops – the cream of the ramen crop! Shibuya is a ramen paradise.
Aug 15, 20194 min read


Mitsufuji: Michelin Guide Ramen in Jiyugaoka
For ramen in Jiyugaoka, Chukasoba Mitsufuji is a gem. Featured in Michelin’s Bib Gourmand Guide, their ramen spectacularly features...
Aug 12, 20191 min read


Spicy Ramen Perfection at Kikanbo in Tokyo
Spicy ramen doesn’t get better than Kikanbo. Their hot miso ramen is the definition of “umakara”.
Aug 7, 20192 min read


Top London Ramen: Creamy Tonkotsu at Kanada-ya
Among London ramen shops, Kanada-Ya stands tall. Their creamy tonkotsu ramen is a big hit with Londoners.
Aug 1, 20192 min read


Takano - High-Level Ramen in Nakanobu
Takano is the most celebrated ramen shop in Nakanobu, Tokyo. The same could be said for Japan.
Jul 30, 20191 min read


Hearty Miso Ramen in Ginza: Do Miso
For hearty miso ramen in Ginza, Do Miso (ど・みそ 京橋本店) is the place to be.
Jul 27, 20191 min read


5 Best Osaka Ramen Shops – Duck to Chicken Mousse
Here are 5 of the best Osaka ramen shops, from chicken mousse ramen to luxurious duck ramen.
Jul 21, 20193 min read


Takadanobaba Ramen: Chicken Ramen at Kageyama
Kageyama is an excellent choice when it comes to Takadanobaba ramen. Their showpiece is a fusion tori paitan.
Jul 19, 20191 min read


Best Kagoshima Ramen: 5 Fantastic Shops
For Kagoshima ramen, here are 5 must visit ramen shops in Kagoshima City. From rich and fatty tonkotsu ramen to modern miso ramen,...
Jul 15, 20192 min read


Zestful Tantanmen in Akasaka – Kisurin
When it comes to tantanmen in Akasaka, Kisurin (希須林) is king. when it comes to tantanmen in Akasaka. Choose soup or soupless and your spice level from 1-5. But most importantly, don’t forget to add the breaded pork cutlet topping! Soupless Tantanmen in Akasaka In the soupless tantamen (their top seller), the creamy white sesame seems to stand out more than the chili. But that balance can also depend on the spice level you choose. Even at a lower level of spice (level 1-2),
Jul 10, 20191 min read


Jimbocho Ramen Shop Kai: Hip Hop and Niboshi
Among Jimbocho ramen shops, Kai is an attention grabber. Snoop Dogg played alongside fatty Niigata style niboshi ramen. Why not?
Jul 8, 20191 min read


Kamuro: Modern Chicken Ramen in Ebisu
Ramen Kamuro is a perfect example of chicken ramen done well. They're only 5 minutes from Ebisu station.
Jul 5, 20191 min read


Bigiya Ramen - High-Level Ramen in Gakugei Daigaku
Bigiya stands tall among ramen shops in Gakugei Daigaku. Their Shizuoka-inspired shoyu ramen is a flavorful, complex blend of chicken and mu
Jul 1, 20191 min read


Best Shimokitazawa Ramen? Men to Mirai
Men to Mirai is at the top of the Shimokitazawa ramen world. Their distinctly chewy noodles are a big draw.
Jun 27, 20191 min read


Shiokan - Real Hokkaido Style Ramen in Ebisu
Shiokan is a favorite for ramen in Ebisu - authentic Hokkaido style ramen too.
Jun 24, 20192 min read


Roppongi Ramen – Super Shoyu Ramen at Tenho
Tenho has been a huge part of the Roppongi ramen scene since 1985. They serve a shoyu ramen that will sober anyone up – that is, if you...
Jun 20, 20191 min read


Fiery Tantanmen (Ramen) at 175° DENO
175°DENO Tantanmen dishes up delicious white or black sesame tantanmen.
Jun 15, 20191 min read


Amazing Dumpling Ramen in Meguro: Kazuya
Among the shops serving ramen in Meguro, Kaduya is a champion. Their old-school approach and refined ingredients make for exquisitely delicious ramen.
Jun 9, 20192 min read
bottom of page
