Image Credits: unsplash.com
My sister-in-law’s go-to comfort food is ramen, and thankfully, my father-in-law is blessed with golden hands in cooking it. Ramen, a beloved Japanese staple, is renowned for its rich broth, springy noodles, and succulent slices of meat. Fortunately, Singapore boasts an array of ramen establishments, each offering an authentic and satisfying experience. Whether you crave a creamy broth or a broth-less alternative, there’s a bowl to suit every taste.
Here are some of the finest spots to indulge in Japanese noodles, all priced under S$20:
TSUTA
Tsuta proudly holds the title of the world’s first Michelin-starred ramen eatery. Led by Chef Yuki Onishi, Tsuta in Singapore revolutionizes ramen by eschewing MSG and artificial additives in favor of premium, natural ingredients. The result? Savory, innovative flavors bursting with umami.
Indulge in the original truffle shoyu soba (starting from S$13.80), a signature dish featuring chashu, leek, truffle puree infused with truffle oil, and bamboo shoots. For a deluxe experience, opt for the premium char siu truffle shio soba (starting from S$13.80), boasting premium kurobuta loin and Iberico belly.
Image Credits: facebook.com/Tsutasingapore
Locations: Jewel Changi Airport, 313@Somerset, and more.
AFURI RAMEN + DUMPLING
Founded by Hiroto Nakamura in Tokyo in 2003, Afuri has since expanded globally, including its arrival in Singapore in 2019. What sets Afuri apart is its use of yuzu, a citrus fruit, in its signature ramen broth. Topped with ingredients like chicken, kombu, and dried bonito, Afuri’s ramen offers a unique twist.
Sample the signature yuzu shio ramen (S$15.90) or explore the latest addition of asari ramen specials, featuring a lighter broth brewed with clams. Pair your ramen with Afuri’s renowned signature fried chicken (S$6.90).
Location: Funan, B1-29, 107 North Bridge Road
MARUTAMA RAMEN
Marutama Ramen stands out with its chicken-based broth, a departure from the pork-based broths of other establishments. This results in a lighter, more refreshing bowl that won’t weigh you down. It’s no surprise that patrons often request an extra serving of noodles!
Indulge in the classic Marutama ramen (S$14.90) with a seasoned boiled egg, or opt for the char siu marutama ramen (S$18.90) featuring four additional slices of chashu. Spice enthusiasts can savor the Niku miso ramen (S$15.40).
Locations: Clarke Quay, Kallang, and more.
IPPUDO
The first time I tried Ippudo was with my husband and sister-in-law. I was awestruck by the flavor and aroma of the ramen. Conceptualized by Shigemi Kawahara in the ’80s, Ippudo revitalized the Kyushu ramen scene and has now made its mark in Singapore. Experience history with the Shiromaru Motoaji Ramen (starting from S$14.85), featuring a creamy tonkotsu broth and tender pork belly chashu. Alternatively, try the Akamaru Shinaji Ramen (starting from S$15.85), enhanced with a special blended miso paste and fragrant garlic oil.
Image Credits: facebook.com/ippudosg
Locations: Sengkang Grand Mall, UE Square, and more.
SANPOUTEI RAMEN
Originating from Niigata, Sanpoutei Ramen adds to Singapore’s diverse ramen offerings. Their signature shoyu ramen boasts a clear soup broth simmered for six hours, complemented by freshly churned noodles and premium toppings like aburi chashu.
Don’t miss the Niigata shoyu ramen (S$15) or the W soup tonkotsu ramen (S$17), featuring a rich, concentrated broth simmered for 12 hours.
Locations: Holland Village, Shaw House, and more.
TONKOTSU KAZAN RAMEN
Experience the spectacle of “volcano ramen” at Tonkotsu Kazan Ramen, where your meal erupts before your eyes. Served in a pre-heated stone bowl, the dish features a calcium- and collagen-infused soup poured over noodles, creating a flavorful eruption.
Try the kazan curry (from S$16.80), kazan karamiso (from S$16.80), or kazan kaisen-shio (from S$16.80) for a spicy, savory treat.
Locations: Century Square, Funan, and more.
Image Credits: facebook.com/TonkotsuKazan
With these top ramen destinations in Singapore, you’re guaranteed a satisfying culinary journey without breaking the bank!
