If you’re looking for top-notch ramen in Shinjuku, here are five highly recommended spots that you should consider. Each offers a unique experience, from rich broths to innovative ingredients, ensuring you have a diverse and delicious ramen journey in one of Tokyo’s most vibrant districts. These establishments not only serve up some of the best noodles and broth in the city but also showcase the creativity and precision that define Japan’s culinary culture. Additionally, the variety of ramen styles available, from traditional tonkotsu to modern fusion interpretations, means there’s always something new to discover with each visit.
1. Ramen Hayashida
Often regarded as one of the best ramen joints in Shinjuku, Ramen Hayashida is famous for its Shoyu Ramen and Tsukemen. Their limited-edition Nodoguro Ramen, made from a sea bass family fish, is particularly noteworthy and worth trying if available​ (City Unscripted)​​ (Ramen Guide Japan)​.
- Location: 3-34-4 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo.
- How to Get There: A 5-minute walk from Shinjuku Station (East Exit).
- Wait Times: Typically 30-45 minutes during peak hours.
- Highlights: The broth is simmered to perfection, providing a deep umami flavor that is highly praised.
2. Menya Sho
This place is perfect for those who enjoy Shio Ramen. Menya Sho offers a clear, light broth that highlights the saltiness and richness of chicken, paired with thin noodles. The shop is also very foreigner-friendly, providing English menus and excellent service​ (Ramen Guide Japan)​​ (Mad About Japan)​.
- Location: 7-22-34 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo.
- How to Get There: About a 9-minute walk from Shinjuku Station (West Exit).
- Wait Times: Usually around 20-30 minutes.
- Highlights: Provides excellent service with English menus, making it very foreigner-friendly.
3. Konjiki Hototogisu
A Michelin-starred ramen shop, Konjiki Hototogisu specializes in shellfish-based ramen, featuring unique flavors like truffle and clam dashi. It’s an upscale experience and a must-visit for those looking to indulge in gourmet ramen​ (City Unscripted)​​ (Ramen Guide Japan)​.
- Location: 2-4-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo.
- How to Get There: Approximately a 10-minute walk from Shinjuku Station (West Exit).
- Wait Times: Can range from 30-60 minutes due to its Michelin-star status.
- Highlights: The combination of shellfish broth with truffle oil provides a unique and luxurious flavor profile.
4. Menya Kaijin
Known for its seafood-based broth made from fresh fish scraps, Menya Kaijin offers a daily-changing flavor profile. Unique toppings like chicken meatballs and myoga set it apart from other ramen shops. The grilled shirasu onigiri is also a delightful addition to your meal​ (Explore Tokyo)​​ (Mad About Japan)​.
- Location: Sanraku Building 2F, 3-35-7 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo.
- How to Get There: A 30-second walk from the southeast exit of JR Shinjuku Station.
- Wait Times: Generally 20-40 minutes.
- Highlights: The broth is light yet flavorful, and the unique toppings set it apart from other ramen shops.
5. Fuunji
Specializing in Tsukemen, Fuunji is the place to go for a rich and flavorful dipping noodle experience. The broth, made from chicken and niboshi (dried fish), is highly praised, even though the customer service can be hit or miss​ (Ramen Guide Japan)​.
- Location: 2-14-3 Yoyogi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo.
- How to Get There: A 5-minute walk from Shinjuku Station (South Exit).
- Wait Times: Often 30-45 minutes, particularly busy during lunch and dinner hours.
- Highlights: The thick, chewy noodles and the intensely flavorful dipping broth make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
These ramen spots each offer a unique twist on the classic dish, ensuring that you’ll have a diverse and delicious experience exploring the ramen scene in Shinjuku. Whether you’re looking for a rich shoyu broth, a light and salty shio, or an upscale shellfish-infused bowl, Shinjuku’s ramen shops have something to satisfy every palate.