Introduction
Kochi’s Ramen craze is impossible to ignore. What was once a niche dish enjoyed by a select few has now become a culinary sensation, making its way into the menus of popular Asian restaurants and cafes across the city. The surge in popularity can be attributed to multiple factors, including the growing influence of Japanese anime, K-dramas, and Korean cuisine, which have introduced local food lovers to the rich and diverse world of ramen.
Beyond its cultural appeal, ramen’s irresistible combination of deep, flavorful broths, perfectly cooked noodles, and customizable toppings has made it a favorite comfort food. Whether it’s the umami-packed miso ramen, the creamy and rich tonkotsu, or the fiery spice of Korean ramen, Kochi’s diners are embracing this iconic dish like never before. As more restaurants experiment with unique flavors and local ingredients, the city’s ramen scene is evolving into an exciting and dynamic food trend that shows no signs of slowing down.
Miso Ramen: A Perfect Blend of Umami and Spice
One of the most sought-after ramen dishes in Kochi is miso ramen. At Tony’s Kitchen in Kacheripady, miso ramen arrives in a steaming bowl with a dark, flavorful broth hiding springy noodles beneath. The dish is topped with four slices of chicken, shiitake mushrooms, half a boiled egg with a runny yolk, a sheet of nori, and a sprinkling of sesame seeds.
The miso-gochugaru sauce adds an extra layer of depth, giving the broth a slightly sour and spicy kick. Customers can choose from chicken, vegan salmon tofu, or beef options. Prices range from ₹600 to ₹795.
Where to Try Miso Ramen in Kochi?
- Tony’s Kitchen (Kacheripady) – ₹850 (chicken), ₹950 (pork)
- Little Soi (Panampilly Nagar) – ₹695 (vegetarian), ₹745 (chicken)
- Nasi and Mee (MG Road) – ₹625 (barbecue shoyu ramen with grilled chicken)
Tonkotsu Ramen: The Pork Lover’s Favorite
For those who enjoy rich and creamy broths, tonkotsu ramen is a must-try. Made by simmering pork bones for hours, this ramen offers a velvety, collagen-rich broth with deep umami flavors.
At Tony’s Kitchen, tonkotsu ramen is a bestseller, priced at ₹950. This ramen is loved by pork enthusiasts for its rich, toasty, and slightly tangy taste.
Why Choose Tonkotsu Ramen?
- Ultra-rich and creamy broth
- Slow-cooked pork adds deep umami flavors
- Ideal for those who love hearty and indulgent meals
Ichiraku Ramen: A Treat for Naruto Fans
If you’re a fan of the anime Naruto, you’ve likely heard of Ichiraku ramen. Now, you can experience it in Kochi at Little Soi in Panampilly Nagar.
Ichiraku ramen features a mild broth topped with Eomuk fish cake, garlic-infused chili flakes, and sesame seeds. Customers can choose from vegetarian, chicken, or beef options, priced at ₹695 to ₹745.
What Makes Ichiraku Ramen Special?
- Inspired by Naruto Uzumaki’s favorite dish
- Unique toppings like Eomuk fish cake
- Balanced flavors with a mild, umami-rich broth
Spicy Korean Ramen: A Fiery Favorite
For those who crave spicy and bold flavors, Korean ramen is the way to go. Unlike Japanese ramen, which focuses on umami depth, Korean ramen is known for its fermented, spicy, and tangy taste.
At Nasi and Mee, the spicy Korean ramen is a customer favorite, making up 60% of all ramen orders. The broth, made with gochujang paste, delivers a fiery kick. Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available, priced between ₹495 and ₹625.
Another favorite is the Buldak chicken ramen (₹795) from Little Soi. Made with Buldak noodles, this ramen is intensely spicy and packed with flavor.
Why Choose Korean Ramen?
- Extra spicy, perfect for heat lovers
- Fermented ingredients add depth and complexity
- Similar to Maggi but with a springier, more robust texture
Unique Ramen Options in Kochi
Beyond the classic varieties, some restaurants in Kochi offer innovative takes on ramen, such as:
- Soupless Ramen (Mazemen): Available at Tony’s Kitchen, this ramen uses a tahini (sesame) base instead of broth.
- Vegetarian/Vegan Ramen: Tony’s Kitchen offers a dairy-free oat milk ramen (₹750), perfect for vegans.
- Barbecue Shoyu Ramen: A shoyu (soy sauce) base topped with grilled barbecue chicken, available at Nasi and Mee (₹625).
Why is Ramen So Popular in Kochi?
According to Abhishek Puthenveettil, cluster manager of Pandhal Café and Deli, ramen has gained popularity due to its versatility and rich flavors. Customers appreciate how ramen combines comfort, nutrition, and customizability in a single bowl.
Chef Antony Jose, owner of Tony’s Kitchen and a Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef, believes that ramen resonates with Indian palates because of its spices and umami-rich broths. He adds that many customers prefer Korean ramen due to its use of fermented ingredients, similar to Indian pickles.
Conclusion: Where to Find the Best Ramen in Kochi?
If you’re looking to explore the best ramen in Kochi, here’s a quick guide:
- Tony’s Kitchen (Kacheripady) – Best for authentic Japanese ramen (Miso, Tonkotsu, Mazemen)
- Little Soi (Panampilly Nagar) – Best for Ichiraku ramen and spicy Korean Buldak ramen
- Nasi and Mee (MG Road) – Best for spicy Korean ramen and barbecue shoyu ramen
As Kochi continues to embrace Asian cuisine, ramen is proving to be more than just a trend—it’s a comfort food revolution. Whether you prefer a rich tonkotsu broth, a mild miso ramen, or a fiery Korean bowl, there’s a ramen for every palate in Kochi.
