Josui: A Benchmark for Nagoya Shio Ramen

If you’re serious about Nagoya shio ramen, Josui (汐ラーメン如水) is a must-visit. This shop is consistently packed with locals and has a regular spot on Tabelog’s Top 100 ramen shops list for West Japan. They’re famous for their shio (salt-seasoned) ramen, a bowl that pairs punchy Okinawan sea salt seasoning with an understated, delicate soup.

Loud Seasoning, Gentle Soup Flavors

Josui’s shio ramen is all about balance. The Okinawan sea salt seasoning comes through clearly, but the soup’s underlying flavors remain soft and refined. Built on a single-pot stock of pork bones, chicken carcasses, and fish, the broth has layers of richness and umami without being heavy.

It’s not the prettiest bowl you’ll ever see, but it’s comfort in its purest form.

The Power of Simple Noodles and Toppings

The noodles are thin and low in moisture, made from a mix of domestic and imported wheat. They start off firm and a little dry but quickly soak up the soup, becoming the perfect vehicle for the flavors.

Josui’s toppings are just as nice. The fatty chashu practically melts in your mouth when you pick it up. The bamboo shoots (menma) are crisp and flavorful. No chemical seasonings are used anywhere.

Why Josui for Nagoya Shio Ramen

Josui’s shio ramen embodies simple done right. There’s no excess flash, no unnecessary flourishes. They just have a balanced soup, outstanding noodles, and carefully made toppings.

It’s a popular spot, so they’ve got an efficient system to move diners through. But it’s worth aiming for off-peak hours if you can. If you’re exploring Nagoya’s ramen scene, Josui is the benchmark for shio ramen in the city.

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