London has quietly become one of the best cities outside Japan for ramen. What started with a handful of noodle bars in Soho a decade ago has grown into a proper scene, with dedicated shops opening across every corner of the city. Whether you are after a classic Hakata-style tonkotsu with its milky, 18-hour pork bone broth, a lighter miso bowl, or something more experimental, there is a London ramen shop that will hit the mark.
The best ramen in London spans a wide range. At one end, you have purists like Kanada-Ya, where the broth recipe was perfected in Fukuoka and the queue outside is a rite of passage. At the other, places like Ramo Ramen are pushing boundaries with Filipino-Japanese fusion bowls featuring coconut milk and tamarind. In between sit dozens of excellent shops serving everything from Sapporo-style miso at Heddon Yokocho to entirely plant-based bowls at Tokoton in Elephant and Castle.
What makes London's ramen scene particularly interesting is its accessibility. Most of the best ramen restaurants operate on a walk-in, counter-seating basis. Prices are reasonable, with many bowls landing between eight and fifteen pounds. It is one of the most satisfying and affordable ways to eat well in an expensive city. Whether you are grabbing a solo lunch at a counter or dragging a group to Bone Daddies on a Friday night, ramen in London delivers.
Below are our 13 top picks, covering the full spectrum of styles, budgets, and neighbourhoods. Every restaurant has been visited and curated by the Oishii London team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the best ramen in London?
London's top ramen spots include Kanada-Ya in Covent Garden for classic tonkotsu, Monohon Ramen in Old Street for their cult mentaiko cream ramen, and Bone Daddies in Soho for rock'n'roll fusion bowls. For budget options, Koi Ramen Bar in Brixton and Menya Ramen House in Bloomsbury both serve excellent bowls under ten pounds.
What is the cheapest ramen in London?
The most affordable ramen in London can be found at Koi Ramen Bar (from around nine pounds across five south London locations) and Menya Ramen House in Bloomsbury. Tonkotsu's set lunch deal, which includes ramen, a side and a drink for £9.95, is also one of the city's best-value options.
Is there good vegan ramen in London?
Yes. Tokoton in Elephant and Castle specialises entirely in vegan ramen with plant-based equivalents of every dish on the menu. Their kuromayu black ramen is particularly popular. Bone Daddies, Shoryu Ramen, and Tonkotsu also offer strong vegan options alongside their regular menus.
Do I need to book for ramen in London?
Most ramen restaurants in London operate on a walk-in basis with no reservations needed. Popular spots like Kanada-Ya can have queues at peak times. Arriving just before noon helps avoid the worst of the lunch rush. Counter seating means turnover is usually fast.
What types of ramen can I find in London?
London's ramen scene covers the full spectrum: tonkotsu (creamy pork bone broth) at Kanada-Ya and Shoryu, miso ramen at Heddon Yokocho, creative fusion at Ramo Ramen with coconut and tamarind, vegan ramen at Tokoton, and even lemon ramen at Tenmaru in Finsbury Park.
Where is the best ramen in south London?
South London has several excellent ramen options. Koi Ramen Bar has five locations including Brixton, offering budget-friendly tonkotsu. Hakata Ramen + Bar in Bermondsey serves speakeasy-style ramen with moody lighting. Tokoton in Elephant and Castle is the go-to for vegan ramen.