Japanese Ramen is our favourite comfort food that we eat all year round. This tasty umami-packed noodle dish comes in four tare (pronounced “tah-reh”) base flavours – Shio (salt-based), Shoyu (soy sauce-based), Miso (soybean paste-based) and Tonkotsu (pork bone broth-based). Originating from Fukuoka, on the island of Kyushu island of Japan, the Tonkotsu Ramen would have to be my favourite style and one that is undeniably popular in Perth.
With the influx of Ramen joints over the past few years, every Tom, Dick, and Harry seem to have an opinion on which is the best version in town. For this reason, this Japanese bowl of goodness can be a polarising dish that may leave some confused. So for those who are new to the Ramen world, here are my top picks for some of the best Japanese Ramen in Perth that is guaranteed to give you a good Ramen fix!
Hakata Gensuke
Named after the Hakata district in Fukuoka (the birthplace of Tonkotsu style ramen), this Ramen house serves up collagen-rich broth and remains a personal favourite of ours. Founded by Master Chef Kouseke Yoshimura, Hakata Gensuke’s “Yobimodoshi” master stock is one of the best I’ve tried, and I highly recommend their Signature Tonkotsu and Black Tonkotsu Ramen (pictured top-most). We are also a big fan of the condiments that are available at the centre of the table. The addition of their umami-laden ramen sauce and spicy pickled vegetables into the broth is a ritual that never fails to enhance our eating experience.
Chilliphiles who want to test their limits will enjoy the God Fire Ramen. Made using their original tonkotsu broth and their blend of “Spicy Fire”, you can order this broth in different levels according to your spice tolerance. If you go past level 5, you can get your polaroid taken and displayed on the wall (woohoo!), but be warned though that anything past five could give you a pretty rough morning the following day!
For more information, visit www.gensuke.com.au/wa
Keisuke Tonkotsu King
A part of the well-known Keisuke Ramen empire, this Ramen house came to our shores in 2018 with the opening of Chef Keisuke Takeda’s first Australian store in Perth’s CBD. A firm favourite amongst many, they have a tight menu that features their three famed Tonkotsu Ramen variations in Original, Black Spicy and Red Spicy. For value hunters looking for that added bang for your buck, you will find their free hard-boiled eggs and sesame bean sprouts a bonus that is too good to miss.
For more information, visit http://www.melbournehotel.com.au/keisuke
Nao Japanese Restaurant
Established in 2003, Nao distinguishes itself by being one of the oldest Japanese Ramen shops in Perth. If you are not a fan of Tonkotsu style Ramen, this is the place for you. They offer an extensive menu that allows you to customize your Ramen bowls to your liking. You can choose from four broth styles (Shoyu, Shio, Miso, Spicy Miso), four noodle types (original, spinach infused, red chilli infused, squid ink infused), and add as many extra toppings as you like. Also available – and great for the warmer months – are their Cold Ramen and Tsukemen (Dipping Ramen). I always enjoy their Shio and Spicy Miso Ramen with a side of their delicious Chicken Karaage. This place will always be our sentimental favourite!
For more information, visit www.naojapaneserestaurant.com.au