Comparing London’s Top 5 Ramen Restaurants
- Tokoton Ramen: Affordable (£12–13 per bowl), classic Japanese flavors, and great vegan options near Elephant and Castle.
- Bone Daddies Soho: Bold, modern twists like Jerk Tantanmen and a lively rock 'n' roll vibe. Prices start at £14.30.
- Monohon Ramen: Cozy Old Street location with traditional methods and standout Abura Soba. Ramen priced around £13–15.
- Ippudo Canary Wharf: International chain known for reliable Hakata-style ramen, priced between £10–15.
- Kanada-Ya: Premium ramen starting at £16.75, featuring rich broths and luxurious options like Truffle Ramen.
Introduction to Ramen in London
London’s ramen scene has evolved from a handful of noodle shops to a vibrant landscape where both tradition and innovation thrive. From the steamy windows of Soho to the modern spaces of Canary Wharf, the city now offers an impressive range of styles and price points that cater to both purists and adventurous diners alike.
For those new to London’s ramen world, the spectrum is broad and inviting. Tokoton near Elephant and Castle proves that quality doesn’t require a hefty price tag, serving up authentic bowls for £12-13 that have quickly earned them recognition among London's ramen enthusiasts. At the other end, Kanada-Ya has established itself as one of the city’s premier ramen destinations, where their meticulously crafted broths and premium offerings like Truffle Ramen (starting at £16.75) demonstrate just how sophisticated this seemingly simple dish can become.
The scene’s diversity is perhaps best exemplified by spots like Bone Daddies in Soho, where traditional techniques meet contemporary London energy. Their Jerk Tantanmen (£14.30) shows how the city isn't just replicating Japanese recipes but creating its own ramen identity. Meanwhile, quieter corners like Monohon on Old Street keep the focus on traditional methods, offering a more intimate experience for those seeking classic Japanese styles.
Whether you’re craving a wallet-friendly bowl of comfort or a premium ramen experience, London's noodle scene has matured into something special. It's a landscape where high-end specialists and affordable newcomers coexist, each contributing to a ramen culture that's uniquely London's own.
Quick Comparison Table
| Restaurant | Price Range | Signature Dish | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tokoton Ramen | £12–13 | Black Vegan Ramen | Authentic flavors, vegan options |
| Bone Daddies | £14.30–18.20 | Tonkotsu Ramen | Fusion dishes, lively atmosphere |
| Monohon Ramen | £13–15 | Abura Soba | Traditional recipes, intimate space |
| Ippudo | £10–15 | Hakata Tonkotsu Ramen | Consistency, spacious for groups |
| Kanada-Ya | £16.75+ | Truffle Ramen | High-end ingredients, rich broths |
Each offers something unique, from budget-friendly bowls to modern fusion or premium indulgence. Ready to dive in? Keep reading to find your perfect ramen spot.
Tokoton Ramen: Japanese Classics in Bartholomew St
Food Quality
Tokoton Ramen takes pride in delivering traditional Japanese flavors. The name itself - Tokoton, meaning "thoroughly" - reflects their commitment to crafting authentic dishes. From the rich, flavorful broth to the perfectly cooked noodles, every detail is carefully considered. Customers rave about both the classic meat ramen and the popular black vegan ramen, highlighting the attention to detail in ingredients and preparation.
"Amazing. Authentic ramen. Could not recommend more. Real Japanese Ramen in London" - Quandoo Review
Price Range
Tokoton Ramen offers a balance of quality and affordability. Their ramen bowls are priced between £12-13, placing them in the mid-range for London’s ramen scene. The full menu provides great value, with options that cater to a variety of tastes:
| Menu Item | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Ramen Bowls | £12-13 |
| Donburi | £8-9 |
| Side Dishes | £5-6.50 |
Special Features
What sets Tokoton Ramen apart goes beyond the food. Located near Elephant and Castle and Borough Station, the restaurant provides an intimate dining experience. Their menu, though compact, features standout items like homemade gyoza and an impressive sake selection.
"Incredible food, very deserving of the high ratings. We had a selection of ramen, sides and dessert and it was all fantastic. I had the black vegan ramen - delicious"
The drink menu includes traditional Japanese beverages such as sake, Asahi, and Kirin Beer, as well as non-alcoholic choices like Cold Green Tea. With friendly, knowledgeable staff and options that cater to both vegans and meat lovers, Tokoton Ramen ensures a memorable dining experience.
Bone Daddies Soho: Modern Ramen in Peter St
Food Quality
Bone Daddies Soho serves up ramen with a fun, bold twist. Their Tonkotsu ramen stands out, thanks to a 20-hour pork bone broth that delivers deep, layered flavors. Each bowl includes perfectly cooked chashu pork belly and marinated soft-boiled eggs, adding richness and texture. The noodles, topped with burnt garlic and fresh spring onions, tie everything together for a satisfying meal. The flavors are bold, and the prices are fair, making it a great spot for ramen lovers.
Price Range
Bone Daddies offers a range of options to suit different budgets:
| Menu Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Tonkotsu [The OG] Ramen | £15.70 |
| Sweet 3 Miso Ramen | £14.30 |
| Jerk Tantanmen | £18.20 |
| Side Dishes | £4.70 – £9.80 |
| Date Night and Chill (Set Menu) | £35.00 |
They also have deals like the "Ramen Date for One" priced at £20.00, which adds extra value for solo diners.
Special Features
Bone Daddies isn’t just about the food - it’s about the vibe too. The rock 'n' roll atmosphere makes dining here a lively experience. Their menu includes creative dishes, like the Jerk Tantanmen, which combines homemade chicken broth, jerk sesame tare, and confit duck for something truly different. Pair your meal with a drink from their selection of sake or Japanese beers, which go perfectly with their variety of side dishes.
"The Tonkotsu [The OG] Ramen features homemade 20-hour pork bone broth, Chashu pork belly, spring onion, bamboo, beansprouts, burnt garlic, half soy egg, and noodles."
For those who want to bring the Bone Daddies experience home, the restaurant even shares recipe tips for recreating their dishes in your own kitchen.
Monohon Ramen: Old Street's Japanese Kitchen
Food Quality
Monohon Ramen brings a taste of Japan to London with its dedication to traditional cooking methods. Their house-made noodles and signature Abura Soba highlight these techniques in every dish. The rich, pork bone soup base used in their ramen is a crowd favorite, earning them an impressive 4.6 rating from over 1,300 reviews.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the pricing.
Price Range
For central London, Monohon Ramen offers great value:
| Menu Category | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Signature Ramen | £13 - £15 |
| Side Dishes | £5 - £7 |
| Desserts | £4 - £6 |
| Vegan Tan Tan Mien | £13 |
Their prices are competitive, and the menu includes something for everyone, from hearty ramen bowls to lighter sides and desserts.
Special Features
What sets Monohon Ramen apart is its dedication to traditional Japanese cooking and its cozy location at 102 Old Street. The restaurant’s small, welcoming space mirrors the warmth of Japanese hospitality. They also cater to different tastes, offering a vegan tan tan mien that stays true to classic Japanese flavors. Seasonal specials keep the menu fresh, though you might encounter short waits during busy hours.
Ippudo Canary Wharf: International Ramen Chain
Food Quality
At Ippudo's Canary Wharf location, the focus on delivering top-tier Japanese ramen is clear. Their Hakata-style tonkotsu ramen stands out, thanks to a pork bone broth simmered for 20 hours. You can choose between the classic shiromaru or the spicier akamaru variations. Every bowl is crafted with strict attention to detail, ensuring it lives up to Ippudo's high standards.
Price Range
Expect to pay between £10 and £15 for a bowl of ramen, which is typical for premium ramen spots in Canary Wharf. Sides and drinks are extra, but the pricing reflects both the quality of the food and the prime location.
Special Features
Ippudo offers more than just great ramen - it’s a full dining experience. Located in Crossrail Place, the restaurant blends modern Japanese design with a range of perks, including:
- A bar serving Japanese craft beers and cocktails
- Vegetarian and vegan ramen options that stay true to Japanese flavors
- A variety of authentic Japanese appetizers
- Easy access via public transport
With a 4.2/5 rating on TripAdvisor, Ippudo continues to draw a crowd. Lunchtimes are bustling with local professionals, while evenings provide a more laid-back atmosphere.
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Tonkotsu Ramen at Ippudo London - A Complete Guide
Kanada-Ya: High-End Ramen in St Giles
Kanada-Ya, located in St Giles, takes ramen to another level with its premium offerings and attention to detail.
Food Quality
This spot is celebrated for its rich tonkotsu broth, expertly prepared noodles, and carefully chosen toppings. With over 2,000 Google Reviews and an impressive 4.5/5 rating, it’s clear that the quality speaks for itself.
Price Range
Ramen bowls here start at £16.75. The price reflects the use of top-tier ingredients and traditional preparation methods, making it one of the pricier - but worthwhile - choices in London’s ramen scene.
Special Features
One standout menu item is the Truffle Ramen, which combines classic Japanese flavors with a touch of luxury. Their chicken karaage is also a favorite, and the menu caters to a variety of dietary preferences, including vegetarian and vegan options. Situated at 64 St Giles High St, the cozy setting is a hit with diners. Reservations are recommended or try visiting during quieter hours to snag a table.
Restaurant Comparison
Here's a quick overview of key details from our earlier reviews.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Here's a snapshot of the standout features:
| Restaurant | Price Range | Signature Dish | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tokoton Ramen | £12–13 | Traditional Ramen | Vegan Black Ramen, Japanese style |
| Bone Daddies Soho | £14.30–16.30 | Spicy Miso Tonkotsu | Rock 'n' roll vibe, fusion dishes |
| Monohon Ramen | N/A | Pork Bone Soup | Cozy, intimate setting |
| Ippudo Canary Wharf | N/A | Hakata-style Tonkotsu | Reliable international chain |
| Kanada-Ya | £16.75+ | Truffle Ramen | High-quality ingredients, tradition |
This table gives a quick look at how each spot caters to different tastes and dining styles.
Recommendations by Category
Based on our reviews, here’s how these restaurants stand out:
- Best Value for Money: Tokoton Ramen (£12–13 for ramen, £8–9 for donburi)
- Most Traditional Experience: Monohon Ramen, with its focused menu and classic preparation
- Top for Modern Fusion: Bone Daddies Soho, offering fun twists like Jerk Tantanmen
- For a Premium Meal: Kanada-Ya, known for its rich, carefully prepared broths
- Best for Groups: Ippudo Canary Wharf, with its spacious layout and consistent service
Each spot also caters to various dietary needs, with excellent vegan options at several locations.
Conclusion
London's ramen scene brings together a variety of flavors and styles, offering something for everyone. From authentic Japanese kitchens to bold, modern twists, the city's top ramen spots showcase their own distinctive approaches. Whether it's Ippudo's globally recognized consistency or Kanada-Ya's refined touch, each place delivers a memorable experience.
Highlights
The city's ramen options cater to a range of tastes and budgets. Some restaurants stick to time-honored methods, while others experiment with bold, new ideas. What ties them all together is their dedication to quality - whether through rich, flavorful broths, freshly made noodles, or inventive ingredient pairings.
"I told the server my predicament, and he said they would customise my Ramen. It was creamy and full of flavour; I enjoyed every mouthful and slurp."
Explore London's Ramen Culture
Check out these spots to experience the variety that defines London's ramen offerings. Whether you're after tradition, innovation, affordability, or indulgence, there's a bowl waiting for you. Let your taste buds guide you through the city's vibrant ramen culture and see why it's become a favorite for noodle lovers everywhere.