We’ve done enough winter food round-ups lately: best fondues, best comfort food, even the best soup list we did last year. Okay, okay. You know where I’m getting at. Yes. After much expectations and many requests, here is Urban Matter’s latest Ultimate Chicago Ramen Guide, hot off the press. Log into Doordash, or get ready to head out — because this is the only list you’ll ever need to find the best Ramen shops in Chicago.
PS: The order goes vaguely from North to South across the city. It is not ordered based on how good they are! Try a few different places, until you find one that speaks to you!
Mura Mura Ramen
1217 W Devon Ave, Chicago, IL 60660
Mura Mura was my goto when I lived near Edgewater. They may not have a fancy website or a huge social media following, but their ramens are solid. If you want to try some authentic Japanese flavors, give their Black Ramen a try. For those who aren’t as good with garlic taste, or prefer something more classic, they also have a great Tonkotsu and Miso. Finally, the Habanero Miso is designed for anyone who is desperate in need of a kick on the tastebud.
Image Credit: Blowfish Sushi & Ramen
Blowfish Sushi & Ramen
1131 W Bryn Mawr Ave, Chicago, IL 60660
There are many reasons why Blowfish is one of the best ramen bars in Chicago. Their black garlic tonkatsu and spicy roasted garlic miso are my personal favorite, and it’s always fun to pick one or two new things from their extensive appetizer list. But the main reason I absolutely love Blowfish is due to their Sake list. If you also believe that the correct pairing of ramen and sake is a form of art, you’ll dig Blowfish for sure!
RAKKAN Ramen
4926 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60640
RAKKAN might be new to Chicago’s ramen scene, their unique branding about making healthy, positive, and happy food quickly connected with Chicago’s many foodies. As one of Japan’s Top 100 ramen shops and the winner of many other ramen awards from its home country, real ramen lovers wouldn’t find RAKKAN’s name unfamiliar. Bringing the traditional Umami flavor to Chicago with an innovative twist, plus offering vegan options, RAKKAN will soon become your new favorite ramen bar in Chicago.
Strings Ramen
multiple locations
With three locations in Chicago, Strings is a safe bet when you’re craving ramen. Personally, I think their broth is a bit saltier than the other places listed here. However, they do have the best spicy ramen in Chicago! Choose your spice level, or try their Monster Hell challenge. You can also order their hell hot sauce separately and recreate the flavor at home!
