
On cold winter days, there’s only one thing you want to eat: something warm, comforting and, if possible, rich in flavor. Ramen is that dish, and Brussels is full of places where you can enjoy it. Originally from Japan, it’s a specialty made from noodles served in a savory broth, topped with a variety of garnishes such as melting pork, marinated eggs or crunchy vegetables. Each region and chef adds their own unique touch, transforming this dish into a gastronomic experience not to be missed. Bruxelles Secrète reveals 9 addresses where you’ll find the best ramen in town!
Kokuban
Kokuban is an ode to authentic Japanese cuisine, offering a complete and unpretentious culinary experience. Start with shareable otsumami, such as edamame or gyozas, before savoring their extra-tasty broth ramen. With two locations in Brussels and a minimalist atmosphere, this is the perfect place for a relaxed meal where every dish, from delicate starters to desserts like black sesame ice cream, invites you to travel.
📍Addresses: Rue Vilain XIII 53, 1000 Brussels – Rue Belliard 180, 1040 Brussels
Mendo
Mendo, a little nugget nestled in the heart of Ixelles, embodies the perfect blend of tradition and modernity in the art of ramen. Their menu features unique creations such as Kurogoma Ramen, a combination of Iberian pork and black sesame, as well as classics like Shio Ramen. In this warm, intimate setting, each bowl is prepared with meticulous care, reflecting the name Mendo, which means “dedication” in Japanese. Add their handmade gyozas or a green tea ice cream to finish, and you’ve got an authentically Japanese experience to savor without moderation.
📍Address: Rue du Bailli 90, 1050 Ixelles
Menma
Menma, founded in 2014, is a must for ramen lovers in Brussels. With three locations in Ixelles, Place Sainte-Catherine and Place Jourdan, Menma offers an authentic homemade ramen experience, offering a variety of broths, including creamy pork, chicken and vegetarian alternatives. The lively atmosphere is reminiscent of traditional Japanese ramen-ya, making every visit a culinary journey to the land of the rising sun.
📍Addresses: Avenue des Saison 123, 1050 Ixelles – Place Jourdan 48, 1040 Etterbeek – Quai aux Briques 34, 1000 Brussels
Yamato
Yamato, founded in 1987, is one of the first ramen restaurants in Brussels. Located in the heart of the Saint-Boniface district and with a second address near the Grand-Place, Yamato offers artisanal noodles served in tasty chicken, pork and vegetable broths. Customers can also sit around the central counter to watch the preparation of dishes such as miso ramen or katsu. Yum!
📍Address: Rue Francart 11, 1050 Ixelles – 57 rue des Éperonniers, 1000 Brussels
Takumi
Takumi, with several locations in Brussels, is renowned for its authentic ramen to suit all palates. Their varied menu offers options such as Teriyaki Miso Ramen and Teriyaki Wantan Shoyu Ramen, as well as tasty vegetarian and vegan alternatives. Fans of Japanese cuisine will also appreciate side dishes such as gyozas and karaage.
📍Addresses: Several addresses in Brussels
Koku Ramen
Koku Ramen is the first restaurant in Belgium to offer Iekei-style ramen. This Japanese specialty is renowned for its deep, rich flavors. Their varied menu includes options such as Iekei Tonkotsu Shoyu, Spicy Tonkotsu Miso and Koku Miso Veggie. All prepared with homemade noodles and broths. You can also enjoy crispy golden gyozas, served straight from the pan to your plate! The warm atmosphere and attention to detail make Koku Ramen a must on this list.
📍Address: Rue Saint-Boniface 11, 1050 Ixelles
Umamido
Umamido, founded by Guy Quirynen in 2013, was born out of his passion for Japanese cuisine discovered during a stay in Kyoto. With five locations in Brussels, the brand stands out for its homemade broths. They are made from ethically sourced ingredients, such as free-range eggs from Heidi Popelier in Belgium and artisanal noodles from Sun Noodle. The varied menu offers ramen such as Tan Tan Men, as well as seasonal specialties. So you can return regularly to taste the chef’s new nuggets!
📍Address: Several addresses in Brussels
Ramen Nobu
Ramen Nobu was founded in 2020 by chef Nobutomo Ishii. It is located in the heart of the Stockel district, in Woluwe-Saint-Pierre, inside the Tagawa Japanese supermarket. The small wooden counter, with its high chairs and laminated menu, evokes the atmosphere of traditional Japanese canteens. Their specialty, miso ramen, is an umami-rich broth accompanied by savory noodles, tender slices of chashu pork, pickled eggs and crunchy vegetables. Their menu evolves with the seasons, offering dishes like spicy miso ramen and shoyu ramen. A true delight.
📍Address: Rue de l’Eglise 96a, 1150 Woluwe-Saint-Pierre
Samouraï
Samouraï is a true Brussels institution. Founded in 1974, this restaurant offers an authentic Japanese experience in a minimalist, contemporary setting. The menu is refined, with ramen taking pride of place. You can opt for miso, soy or pork broths, which can be flavored according to your desires and the products of the moment. But Samouraï isn’t just about ramen! Sushi, sashimi and ready-to-eat dishes such as sukiyaki also add a touch of sophistication. In short, this is a place where tradition and modernity meet to offer an immersion in Japanese gastronomy.
📍Address: Chau. de Waterloo 1105, 1180 Uccle