In recent years, Japanese gastronomy has conquered Milan, becoming one of the most popular cuisines among the Milanese. Between sushi, tempura and sashimi, ramen has found a special place in the hearts and palates of those who live in this city.
But what makes ramen so irresistible? Ramen is a dish that often appears in Japanese comic books (anime). Iconic characters such as Naruto Uzumaki are known for their love of these noodle broths, making this dish even more popular among anime fans.
What are ramen noodles?
Ramen is a traditional Japanese dish made of noodles (a kind of spaghetti or noodles), served in a flavorful broth and enriched with a variety of ingredients. Its origin (actually Chinese) dates back to the early 1900s, but it has become popular throughout Japan and the world.
Ramen noodles, usually made from wheat flour, can vary in thickness and texture, and the broth can be made from meat, fish, or vegetables. Some of the most commonly used ingredients in ramen include chashu (braised pork), menma (fermented bamboo), marinated eggs, and spring onions. Each restaurant has its own secret recipe for the broth, which can range from miso to tonkotsu, making each unique experience more or less flavorful and spicy.
How do you eat ramen noodles?
Eating ramen is an art. You start by pouring some broth into the noodles and, with the help of chopsticks, gently lift the noodles. Don’t forget to sip the broth directly from the bowl-it is a common gesture in Japan and shows how much you appreciate the dish.
Did you know that ramen is so popular in Japan that there is even a museum dedicated to it?
The Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum in Yokohama offers a journey through the various regions of Japan, allowing visitors to sample different varieties of ramen.
Now that you have an overview of what ramen noodles are, it’s time to find out where to enjoy them in Milan. Here is a list of the best ramen restaurants we have ever tried.
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Ramen House
Zone: Navigli
Ramen House is the ideal place to enjoy simple and tasty dishes. Every customer can choose their favorite ramen thanks to the wide variety of options with different meat broths. The appetizers are not to be missed, although a ramen alone satiates perfectly. The restaurant is small but cozy, with friendly staff. We recommend trying the Duck Ramen, the Lamb Ramen or the Chicken Ramen, as well as the delicious dumplings and tasty bao.
Address: Via Vigevano, 22, 20144 Milan, Italy
Ramen Bar Akira – Isola
Zone: Isola
Ramen Bar Akira in the Isola district is the perfect place for lovers of authentic ramen, “Iekei Ramen” style, or homemade. The broth cooks for 12 hours and the noodles are handmade, ensuring a unique, authentic flavor. The veg Ramen is promoted with flying colors, but the dish not to be missed is the Ramen with pork. Cozy venue, ideal for an unforgettable Japanese dining experience.
Address: Via Luigi Porro Lambertenghi, 17, 20159 Milan, Italy
Ramen Shop
Zone: Lambrate
At Ramen Shop, in Lambrate, the ramen is really good, probably one of the best in Milan. The noodles are handmade by the cook, and you can watch the process through a display case. Reservations are not possible, so you wait outside and then go inside. If you want to play it safe try the Chashu Ramen, Gyuniku Ramen or Miso Ramen, all of which are delicious. The marinated eggs melt in your mouth, as does the meat. The place is small but cozy, with both indoor and outdoor seating.
Address: Via Alessandro Tadino, 13, 20124 Milan, Italy
Ramen Station
Zone: Tortona
Ramen Station in Milan is heaven for those looking for gluten-free oriental dishes, with a wide selection and many vegan options. The ramen is faithful to the Japanese original, although with some variations in the noodles and cut of meat. Intimate and comfortable venue, with friendly and helpful staff. An experience of taste and refinement out of the ordinary! Recommended dishes: Ramen with spicy pork and Gluten-free Ramen with beef.
Address: Corso S. Gottardo, 16, 20136 Milan, Italy
Ramen Shifu
Zone: Porta Romana
Ramen Shifu is an eatery that mixes Japanese pop culture and cybernetic atmospheres. The menu is rich and varied, with many vegan and vegetarian options. Enjoy an evening of manga music and delicious food. Try the Ramen with shrimp tempura or the Ramen with fried chicken. The sweet mochi (banana and chocolate!) are also excellent. The staff is friendly and helpful, the atmosphere quiet and the prices fair.
Address: 48 Viale Monte Nero, 20135 Milan
Hands in Noodles 拉面店
Zone: Central Station
Mani in Noodles 拉面店 is a cozy and elegant restaurant, decorated in a minimal style with lots of plants. The quality is excellent and you can immediately feel that the pasta is handmade. The menu is not extensive, but offers sophisticated dishes such as ramen in broth or stir-fried noodles, dumplings, and spring rolls. Try the Ramen with beef broth and the Tom Yum, which has a surprisingly unique spicy and sour flavor.
Address: Via Aminto Caretto, 8, 20124 Milan, Italy
Ramen a Mano
Zone: Sarpi – Chinatown
Ramen a Mano is a small, cozy and comfortable restaurant in Chinatown, with a warm atmosphere that makes you feel at home. The menu has a few options to keep quality high, with a ramen recipe that respects authentic tradition. The open kitchen allows you to observe the preparation of ramen, including the hand-rolling of noodles. Among our favorites: the Ramen with spicy braised beef broth and the vegetarian one.
Address: Via Paolo Lomazzo, 20, 20154 Milan, Italy
Takumi Ramen Kitchen
Zone: Rectory
Takumi Ramen Kitchen is an intimate and colorful eatery, reminiscent of Tokyo eateries. This little restaurant offers a wide range of ramen, with many options for vegetarians and vegans. We recommend making a reservation even if there are only a few of you. The service is fast and the atmosphere perfect for a pleasant evening with friends or couples. If you want a recommendation, try one of these dishes without fear: Ramen In, Black GarlicRamen and Ramen with Shoyou broth.
Address: Via Luigi Canonica, 63, 20154 Milan, Italy
Mi-Ramen Bistro
Zone: Giambellino
Mi-Ramen Bistro in Milan is an informal and cozy place, ideal for fans of the Manga world. Here, in fact, you can find dishes dedicated to Naruto, with the vortex symbol in the kamamoto. The menu is full of such delights as Deluxe Lan Ramen, Shrimps Shoyo Ramen, and vegan ramen. The appetizers are great and the jasmine tea is delicious. The staff is super friendly and the service is quick. Portions? Abundant and tasty!
Address: Piazza Napoli, 21, 20146 Milan
Niuda Ramen a Mano牛大面馆
Zone: Moscova
Niuda Ramen a Mano 牛大面馆 is a Milanese restaurant that has focused on traditional Lanzhou Chinese cuisine. Cozy, with sublime food at great prices! The staff is very friendly and helpful. If you love noodles, try the Lanzhou beef noodle soup, super aromatic and spicy. However, start with the steamed dumplings and spring rolls-they deserve it! Here you can see handmade ramen noodles before your eyes, choose from different types of noodles, and decide whether to enjoy them with the excellent traditional or vegetable broth. In general, customization of dishes is not a problem and portions are always generous.
Address: Via della Moscova, 48, 20121 Milan
Milan offers a wide variety of restaurants where you can enjoy the best ramen. Whether you are a lover of tradition or looking for new culinary experiences, Japanese restaurants in Milan will satisfy your every desire.