The best ramen in Melbourne

Japanese · 413 Brunswick St, Fitzroy VIC 3065

Gogyo Fitzroy’s ramen boasts exceptionally thin, flat noodles with a subtle chew, swimming in a richly fatty broth brimming with intense umami from a signature chard miso. Reviewers highlight the generous portion size, adorned with fresh cabbage and other toppings, providing a deeply comforting and flavourful experience. Despite criticisms regarding overly salty broth and reliance on powdered stock, the ramen stands apart due to its deeply rooted, authentic Japanese flavours and generous, high-quality ingredients—a testament to a genuine passion for the dish.

Open - Closes 10 pm

Japanese · 126 Lygon St, Carlton VIC 3053

The Hakata Gensuke Carlton Tonkotsu ramen arrives with a deeply rich, creamy broth, boasting a pronounced umami flavor that reviewers describe as perfectly balanced. Generous portions, often featuring additions like chashu katsu and lotus root chips, are presented alongside a selection of condiments, ensuring a customizable and satisfying meal. Unlike many Melbourne ramen shops, the Carlton Tonkotsu’s focus on authentic tonkotsu and innovative additions like the Ontama Karaage Don provides a uniquely comforting and flavorful experience.

Open - Closes 9:30 pm

Japanese · 4/860 Glenferrie Rd, Hawthorn VIC 3122

The Hakata Gensuke Hawthorn ramen boasts a deeply rich, creamy broth, so intensely flavorful that reviewers repeatedly finished every last drop, recalling the experience of authentic Japanese ramen. Customers appreciate the extensive customization options, from noodle thickness and broth strength to a wide array of toppings like gyoza and fried chicken, alongside the consistently fresh ingredients and satisfying texture. Unlike many Melbourne ramen offerings, the Hawthorn location’s commitment to replicating the nuanced flavors of traditional Hakata tonkotsu, combined with the serious spice level, provides a uniquely transporting culinary experience.

Open - Closes 9:30 pm

Japanese · 1/349 Elizabeth St, Melbourne VIC 3000

The intensely rich broth of Isshin Ramen Bar’s ramen, boasting a deeply savoury aroma, immediately sets it apart from other offerings in Melbourne. Reviewers consistently praised the generously sized portions, highlighting the fresh, springy texture of the noodles and the carefully layered toppings – particularly noting the balance of spice and flavour. Unlike many ramen shops in the city, Isshin’s focus on delivering authentic, satisfying comfort food at an accessible price point creates a uniquely welcoming experience.

Open - Closes 10 pm

Japanese · 119 A'Beckett St, Shop G/02 UNO Melbourne, Melbourne VIC 3000

Machida Shoten’s MAX Yokohama ramen boasts a deeply rich, creamy broth brimming with umami, complemented by perfectly chewy noodles and a generous selection of toppings, including a substantial portion size ideal for satisfying appetites. Reviewers highlight the restaurant’s authentic flavors, particularly the Tsukemen which closely resembles versions enjoyed in Tokyo, showcasing a noticeable texture and intense aroma. Unlike many Melbourne ramen options, Machida Shoten delivers a genuinely immersive experience rooted in traditional Japanese techniques and a clear dedication to replicating the comforting essence of a truly exceptional bowl.

Open - Closes 9:30 pm

Japanese · 165A Sydney Rd, Brunswick VIC 3056

The Misoya Special Ramen boasts a deeply flavorful broth, often described as needing a touch more richness, layered with generous portions of perfectly cooked noodles and a vibrant array of toppings like crispy karaage chicken. Reviewers praise the authentic taste and satisfying texture, particularly on cooler evenings, alongside a welcoming atmosphere and consistently friendly staff. What truly distinguishes Misoya in Melbourne is its commitment to delivering exceptionally generous, high-quality ramen experiences, particularly when combined with their expertly prepared karaage, offering a genuinely comforting and value-driven meal.

Open - Closes 9:30 pm

Japanese · 240 Smith St, Collingwood VIC 3066

Parco Ramen Collingwood’s Dark Tori Shio ramen boasts a deeply rich, intensely savory broth with generous chunks of chicken chashu and perfectly cooked noodles, delivering a remarkably comforting experience. Reviewers praise the intense flavor profiles achieved through ingredients like spicy coriander and truffle, alongside fresh additions like raw trout and expertly prepared karage-don, offering a substantial portion size and excellent value for money. Unlike other ramen shops in Melbourne, Parco distinguishes itself through its consistently ambitious flavor combinations and evident passion for showcasing authentic Japanese ingredients and techniques.

Open - Closes 9:30 pm

Japanese · 17A Hall St, Moonee Ponds VIC 3039

Parco Ramen’s tori shio ramen boasts a deeply savory broth infused with generous garlic, delivering a powerfully aromatic and comforting experience for those who enjoy bold flavors. Reviewers praise the perfectly cooked ramen noodles and the rich, flavourful broth, often complemented by generous portions and fresh toppings, creating a satisfying and intimate dining atmosphere reminiscent of Tokyo’s ramen shops. Unlike many Melbourne establishments, Parco Ramen distinguishes itself through its focused exploration of unique, exotic ramen variations, particularly the impressive lobster ramen, offering a genuinely different experience.

Japanese · Food Court, Shop G51/235 Springvale Rd, Glen Waverley VIC 3150

Raman Raman’s Spicy Tonkotsu Chashu Ramen boasts a rich, surprisingly deep broth with a gentle spice that lingered pleasantly on the palate, complemented by incredibly soft, smoked duck meat. Reviewers noted a generous portion size and a satisfyingly chewy texture in the ramen itself, alongside perfectly cooked onsen eggs and a delicate balance of flavors. Unlike other Melbourne ramen options, Raman Raman distinguishes itself through its expertly crafted, intensely flavored broth and thoughtful additions like the smoky duck, elevating a food court experience to a genuinely impressive level.

Closed - Opens 11 am Sun

Japanese · 235 Springvale Rd, Glen Waverley VIC 3150

Shujinko Ramen at The Glen’s broth boasts a remarkably rich, umami flavor, highlighted by tender pork slices grilled to a satisfyingly smoky texture. Reviewers appreciated the generous portion size, complemented by toppings like bean sprouts and bok choy, although some felt the overall taste lacked the authentic depth of Japanese cuisine. Unlike many ramen shops in Melbourne, Shujinko's brisk service and focused menu create a genuinely efficient and satisfying experience, offering a remarkably affordable take on this popular dish.

Japanese · 73 Koornang Rd, Carnegie VIC 3163

Shyun Ramen Bar’s Chashu Pork (Shoyu) ramen boasts a remarkably smooth, intensely flavorful broth, achieved with a technique reminiscent of Japanese instant noodles, creating a comforting and surprisingly light experience. Reviewers noted generous portions, particularly with the Pork Butter Corn ramen, alongside fresh, crispy takoyaki and a satisfying textural contrast from the noodles themselves. Unlike many Melbourne ramen offerings, Shyun Ramen Bar’s focus on delivering a consistently rich, yet balanced flavour profile, combined with a relaxed atmosphere, establishes it as a reliable favourite within the Carnegie dining scene.

Japanese · 333 High St, Northcote VIC 3070

The Dojo Ramen Bar’s Tan Tan men ramen delivers a pronounced spice with a deeply savoury, pork-based broth, generously topped with calamari and accompanied by a substantial portion size that left diners satisfied. Reviewers praised the freshness of the noodles and the comforting, authentic atmosphere, alongside the rare availability of vegetarian and vegan options, showcasing an impressive range of flavour profiles. Unlike many Melbourne ramen spots, this bar successfully evokes the vibrant, bustling energy of a Tokyo alleyway, offering a truly immersive experience.

Japanese · Ground Floor/470 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne VIC 3004

The intensely rich, pork-based broth of The Ramen Club’s Suimin Prawn and Chicken ramen delivered a surprisingly complex flavour, punctuated by a pleasant, subtle spice that lingered on the palate. Reviewers consistently praised the generous portion size and the freshness of the toppings, particularly the inclusion of perfectly cooked noodles with a satisfyingly chewy texture alongside the vibrant prawns and chicken. What truly sets this Melbourne offering apart is the meticulous selection and inclusion of globally-inspired, often rare, ramen varieties, making each monthly box a genuinely exciting exploration for noodle enthusiasts.

Japanese · 6A Anchor Pl, Prahran VIC 3181

The intensely rich chicken broth of Yoku Ono Ramen & Sake Bar’s ramen, layered with tender slices of chashu pork and a perfectly soft-boiled egg, delivers a deeply satisfying experience. Reviewers praise the freshness of the ingredients, particularly the tuna sashimi, and the comforting, slightly spicy flavour profiles offered by dishes like the spicy mince pork ramen, though some found the sesame base vegetarian ramen a touch overpowering. While priced higher than many Melbourne ramen options, Yoku Ono distinguishes itself through its dedication to delivering a genuinely authentic experience and meticulous attention to detail, evident in the quality of its noodles and overall flavour balance.

Open - Closes 10 pm

Japanese · 609 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000

Onsen Japanese’s ramen boasts a deeply flavorful broth, infused with a successful blend of Chinese and Japanese influences, offering a warming experience perfect for a cold Melbourne evening. Reviewers praised the charchew pork ramen, particularly noting the ability to customize spice levels and noodle texture, alongside generous toppings and a noticeable freshness in the ingredients. Despite occasional quality concerns regarding other dishes, the consistently well-received ramen, particularly the $15.80 tantanmen, distinguishes Onsen Japanese through its authentic flavors and the genuine warmth of its service.

Open - Closes 10:30 pm

Japanese · 309 Victoria St, Abbotsford VIC 3067

The Kuro Mayu Tonkotsu Ramen at Shizuku Ramen & Craft Beer offers a rich, deeply flavorful broth with a noticeable aroma of garlic, complemented by a satisfyingly chewy noodle texture and generous toppings like the crab croquette. Reviewers praise the expansive vegetarian and vegan options, alongside standout dishes such as the intensely spiced curry laksa broth and sizable portions, demonstrating a commitment to delivering a comforting and fully satisfying meal. Unlike many Melbourne ramen shops, Shizuku’s skillful blend of diverse flavors and innovative takes on classic dishes creates a truly unique experience focused on bold, memorable tastes.

Open - Closes 10 pm

Japanese · Shop 13/276 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000

The Karakuchi Ramen at Shujinko Ramen Flinders delivers a deeply satisfying experience, with tender, charred pork belly and a balanced broth leaning towards shio, complemented by fresh bean sprouts and a generous portion size. Reviewers praise the intensely fragrant aroma and complex flavours, particularly the vibrant combination of sweet, salty, and umami notes from the miso ramen, alongside the satisfying texture of the toppings. This Flinders location stands out due to its dedication to authentic Yaki Ramen, a dish meticulously crafted with high-quality ingredients and a nostalgic, almost reverent approach to Japanese culinary tradition.

Open - Closes 11:30 pm

Japanese · 200 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000

The Hakata Gensuke QV ramen boasts a deeply rich broth, meticulously cooked to a balanced flavour profile without excessive saltiness, complemented by delightfully chewy noodles. Reviewers praise the generous portion size, enhanced by toppings like a satisfyingly crunchy chicken karaage and a flavorful onsen egg, creating a profoundly comforting experience. While priced higher than some competitors, the exceptional quality of the chicken broth and consistently well-executed ramen distinguishes Hakata Gensuke QV as a standout choice for serious ramen lovers in Melbourne.

Open - Closes 10 pm

Japanese · 368 Brunswick St, Fitzroy VIC 3065

The ramen at Ramen Ako’s in Fitzroy boasts a rich, clear salt-based chicken broth, delivering a surprisingly delicate yet flavorful experience reminiscent of top-tier Japanese ramen. Reviewers praised the generous portion size and fresh toppings, particularly the pork, alongside the satisfying, though occasionally uneven, texture of the noodles, contributing to a comforting and authentic atmosphere. Unlike many Melbourne ramen shops, the focus on a limited menu and meticulous preparation, demonstrated by the variations in noodle texture, allows for a uniquely focused and refined taste of Japan.

Open - Closes 2:30 pm · Reopens 5:30 pm

Japanese · 18 Artemis Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000

The Ippudo ramen at QV boasts a remarkably thick and flavourful broth, often seasoned generously with salt, contributing to a rich and satisfying experience. Reviewers consistently praised the generous portion size, alongside the silky texture of the soup and juicy chicken karaage, offering a comforting meal particularly suited for a quick lunch. Despite fluctuating quality, the ramen’s initial intensity of flavour and consistent service, particularly concerning the monthly $10 promotion, sets it apart from other ramen options in Melbourne’s CBD.

Open - Closes 10:30 pm