Where to eat ramen in Milan
Steaming bowls, rich broths and Japanese tradition for the cold season: a guide to the best ramen in Milan
With the arrival of autumn and the first chill in the air, Milan is once again ready for steaming bowls of ramen. This Japanese speciality – born in China as lamian and perfected in the Land of the Rising Sun – pairs noodles with rich broths seasoned with miso, shoyu or shio, topped with meat, marinated eggs, seaweed and spices. Over recent years the city has seen a boom in ramen bars, from trailblazers like Casa Ramen and Zazà Ramen to fresh openings rethinking tradition, yet truly authentic spots remain rare. Here is our pick of the best addresses, each with its own style and distinct take on one of the Milanese winter’s favourite comfort foods.
Okuzashiki Menya Ninomiya
Via Marghera, 34
Tucked away in the courtyards of Via Marghera, Okuzashiki Menya Ninomiya is an essential stop for anyone seeking the best ramen in Milan. Chef Yoshikazu Ninomiya, already known for Kappou Ninomiya, delivers a pared-back, authentic menu in an intimate, minimalist room. The choice features several ramen styles, including creamy tonkotsu and an outstanding tsukemen, with cold dipping noodles served alongside a deep, rich broth that ranks among the city’s finest. The experience is rounded out by faultless gyoza, donburi with meat and Japanese curry, alongside starters such as karaage, tofu, fermented vegetables and grilled mackerel. An address with the unmistakable flavour of Japan.
Casaramen
Via Luigi Porro Lambertenghi, 25
Casa Ramen, in the heart of Isola, is an institution for anyone seeking top-tier ramen in Milan. Opened in 2013 by Luca Catalfamo, a chef with international experience and Japanese training, it offers a tiny 16-cover space, no reservations and a no-frills setting that recalls traditional ramen-ya. The King Tonkotsu is the signature bowl, featuring an intense, comforting broth, alongside vegetarian, spicy and brothless options. On the side come soft bao, karaage chicken and kimchi. Riding this success, in 2017 he opened Casaramen Super, just around the corner, with more room and new dishes. A cornerstone for ramen fans: a bowl that warms both body and soul.
Masayume | Ramen & Izakaya
Via Garigliano, 6
We stay in the Isola neighbourhood with Masayume, one of the most original and convincing ramen bars in town. Inspired by Tokyo izakayas, it combines neon, 80s anime references and Shinjuku-style murals, creating a pop and immersive atmosphere. The kitchen is open and everything is made in-house, from the noodles to the broths. Among the bowls, the TanTamen stands out, creamy and spicy, while the Black Shoyu offers a more delicate option. The gyoza are also great, as are the karaage and katsusando. Prompt service and real Japanese culinary expertise make Masayume an essential stop for some warming comfort this Milanese autumn.
Zazà Ramen
Via Solferino, 48
Zazà Ramen, opened in 2013 on Via Solferino by Dutchman Brendan Becht, offers a contemporary Italian take on Japanese ramen. The homemade noodles, crafted with Molino Quaglia flour, are served in broths prepared according to tradition with miso, shoyu or shio. The restaurant serves five or six versions, from classic Chashu with pork belly to inventive alternatives like orange-glazed guinea fowl, fish or meatballs. Zensai and donburi round out the menu, while the restaurant’s character also shines through art: Zazà Ramen regularly hosts exhibitions by international artists, making it a one-of-a-kind address on the Milan ramen scene.
Ramen Shop
Via Alessandro Tadino, 13
Ramen Shop, between Loreto and Corso Buenos Aires, is one of the best-kept secrets for fans of authentic, no-nonsense ramen. Tiny and perpetually packed, it wins diners over with hand-pulled noodles prepared right before your eyes and a rich, flavourful broth among the best in town. The setting is stripped back, with a few tables and counter stools facing the street, yet the lively vibe and swift service keep things casual and pleasant. The concise menu focuses on classics like tonkotsu ramen with braised pork: affordable and deeply satisfying. Perfect for a quick lunch or a great-value dinner, Ramen Shop proves that quality, craft and fair prices can easily thrive even in compact spaces.
Takumi Ramen and Kitchen
Via Luigi Canonica, 6
Founded in 2007 in Düsseldorf, Takumi is now an international chain bringing authentic ramen to Milan, complete with noodles produced in Hokkaido that are renowned for their texture and quality. With multiple locations across town, it stands out for colourful interiors, pop décor and efficient service arranged across two seatings. The menu is among the most extensive in Milan: dozens of ramen styles, including vegetarian and vegan options, ranging from light chicken broths and Black Garlic Ramen to fiery bowls. Portions are generous and good value. Yakisoba and other Japanese staples complete the offering for a casual, satisfying meal.
