The Best Ramen in Auckland

Traditional Japanese noodle soup is one of the most popular dishes around the world, both in it’s traditional form and taking on local flavors in all corners of the globe. It’s pretty hard to go anywhere these days and not find a decent ramen restaurant.

Auckland is spoilt for choice with a great range of excellent ramen restaurants. We’ve done the leg work for you and hand picked what we think are the best ramen places in all parts of Auckland…

Ramen Takara

Owned and operated by Yuki since 2007, Ramen Takara builds on the traditional style of Japanese ramen that Yuki learned from his father, Hōchinrō, who ran his own successful ramen shop in the shadow of Mt Fuji. But Yuki is also forward thinking and prides himself on using fresh local ingredients and flavors to deliver a product that is at once traditional and contemporary.

ZOOLZOOL

ZOOLZOOL is owned and operated by celebrated Auckland duo Toru Hirae and Kazuya Yamauchi, who were already well known for their successful central city eatery, Kazuya. They opened ZOOLZOOL to offer a different dining experience in the Izakaya style, offering a range of incredible ramen options along with a great range of Japanese whisky and sake…why not! Since opening ZOOLZOOL has become a firm favorite with ramen lovers city wide.

Ajisen

Ajisen originated in Kuamoto, Japan, in 1968, and has grown to be one of the worlds largest chains of ramen and noodle restaurants in the world. So yes, it is true they are a big chain, but don’t let that put you off. There is a reason they’ve been successful, and honestly the formula isn’t that complicated…great tasting ramen noodles, served cheap and fast in a comfortable setting. If you are after a genuine Japanese fast noodle experience this is the place.

Chop Chop

Chop Chop is a fabulous joint in Ponsonby Central, and offers a real fusion of Asian styles and western hospitality…they literally call themselves the noodle saloon, and that’s a pretty apt description. It is a very intimate setting dominated by a central bar and kitchen with the best seats at the bar looking right in on the action. You’ll never be bored. Oh and the ramen is brilliant. If you want to mix it up try the tempura corn balls!

Daikoku Botany

What to say about Daikoku? It is an absolute institution in Auckland, opening way back in 1989 as the first teppanyaki and ramen noodle house in the city. Aucklanders quickly caught the bug for genuine Japanese noodles and Daikoku actually have seven locations around Auckland, any of which is worth a visit.

Tanpopo Ramen

Tanpopo positions itself as a “real Japanese ramen bar” and that is exactly what it is. Owned by first generation Japanese immigrant, Michio Kurihara, Tanpopo reflects Michio’s training as a master ramen chef in Japan. His goal in opening Tanpopo was to offer up authentic Japanese flavors to a kiwi audience, and to discerning Japanese residents who want a real falvor of home.

Daruma Ramen

This inner east location of the very popular ramen bar is our local go to for quick and delicious ramen. They have an extensive menu which includes gyoza to die for…you can’t go here and not have a side of gyoza with your noodles. I’m told their signature Tonkotsu Chasu noodles are exceptional, but as a vego I always pick the Vege Miso ramen and have never been disappointed.

9Bowls Japanese Eatery

9Bowls is a very contemporary Japanese eatery. Rather than go for an old school authentic vibe, they’ve gone for a modern, airy and fresh take on the decor and the menu, which includes lots of delicious ramen noodle options but also includes rice, salad and poke bowls to make sure everyone is catered for. If you live or work in East Auckland this is a must try.