Arguably some of the best cuisine on the planet – we’re giving some love to Japan. From delicious sushi to sweet mochis to revitalizing matcha teas, there is still one dish we can’t stop thinking about: ramen. An adaptation from traditional Chinese wheat noodles, ramen became a signature meal all over Japan. Now, NYC, being such a rich cultural hub, has its fair share of incredible and authentic ramen shops. If you love Japanese food, and especially ramen, you need to try one of these six ramen shops in New York City.

Nakamura NYC

Chef Naka opened his first ramen shop in Japan at the age of 22. After colossal success, he decided to take his craft to a new level. Starting with partnerships with different ramen shops in the US, he now opened his own shop in the heart of NYC called Nakamura NYC. Come and enjoy a perfected ramen bowl with no reservations required.

Where: Nakamura NYC; 172 Delancey St, Manhattan (30 min drive from The Lombardy Hotel)

When: Monday – Saturday 11:30 am – 11:30 pm

Ivan Ramen Slurp Shop

Ivan Ramen is acclaimed on every ramen critic blog. Some even say this might be the best ramen shop in NYC. Enjoy the delicious and balanced combination between traditional Japanese flavors with a hint of Americana thrown in. If you decide to visit Ivan Ramen Slurp Shot, beware. It will often be severely packed. So make your reservation with time, and even enjoy the Ivan Ramen dishes by purchasing their cookbook!

Where: Ivan Ramen Slurp Shop; 600 11th Avenue, Manhattan (30 min drive from The Lombardy Hotel)

When: Sunday – Thursday 11am – 10pm; Friday – Saturday 11am – 11pm

Misoya

We get it. Trying food from other countries can be a little bit intimidating. But that shouldn’t stop you from tasting new culinary experiences. If you are not sure whether ramen is your cup of miso (pun intended) Misoya might be the shop for you. Serving miso-based only ramen, you can have a general taste of what ramen might taste like. However, don’t let Misoya fool you. They might only serve miso ramen, but each bowl is unique in its own way.

Where: Misoya; 29 2nd Avenue, Manhattan (25 min drive from The Lombardy Hotel)

When: Monday – Saturday 12 pm – 12 am; Sunday 12 pm – 11 pm

Totto Ramen

Just like you might be trying ramen for your first time, you could also be a ramen expert. If you’re part of the ramen world, you must go to Totto Ramen. Not only do they serve special ramen recipes (unique to their multiple locations), but you can customize your ramen as well. Pick from more than 15 toppings and make your own special ramen. Enjoy your personalized ramen with your favorite Japanese beverage.

Where: Totto Ramen; 248 East 52nd Street, Manhattan (30 min drive from The Lombardy Hotel)

When: Monday – Wednesday 11:30 am – 3 pm, 5 pm – 11:00 pm; Thursday – Friday 11:30 am – 11 pm; Saturday 12:30 am – 11 pm; Sunday 12:30 am – 10:30 pm

Ramen Lab

If you like to shake things up with your menu, Ramen Lab will always surprise you. With their pop-up locations, a new chef will be directing the Ramen Lab kitchen every so often, making sure the ramen experience is always changing. Enjoy unique ramen bowls from both US and Japanese roots. Don’t let this unique bowl of ramen run away!

Where: Ramen Lab; 70 Kenmare St, Manhattan (17 min drive from The Lombardy Hotel)

When: Tuesday – Sunday 5 pm – 10 pm

Ippudo

Ippudo’s first overseas location was Ippudo NYC in East Village. With a spacious and lively environment, you can order their signature pork ramen while viewing the entire process, thanks to their open kitchen. If you want vegan or vegetarian options, Ippudo offers a vast menu that will satisfy most of your dietary restrictions. There is no excuse to try a delicious, warm bowl of hand-made ramen

Where: Ippudo; 600 Third Avenue, Manhattan (11 min drive from The Lombardy Hotel)

When: Monday – Sunday 10:30am – 11pm

Staying in New York City - About The Lombardy Hotel

The Lombardy hotel is located in Midtown Manhattan, minutes away from the best Japanese restaurants in NYC. Make sure to make the most of your visit to NYC and check out our multiple restaurant suggestions on our blog! And after an adventurous day in the Big Apple, return to the Lombardy, where a comfortable bed, spacious rooms, and eager staff will be there to tend your every need. We look forward to hosting you!