Ramen may come to mind during fall or winter…but the truth is, a good bowl of steamy noodles is always a good idea. We rounded up our favorite ramen spots in San Diego! These eateries range from traditional Japanese restaurants to fast and casual eateries and beyond. We’re sure you’ll find a spot to enjoy your next bowl of ramen here!
1. Ramen Nagi
This is, by far, one of the favorite ramen spots in San Diego – which means it’s popular! You’re guaranteed to wait in line, but it’s all worth it. There’s barely any choice on this menu that won’t hit the spot, but people seem to absolutely love their Red King bowl – if you’re into spicy food, this may the best call for you. Besides a couple of signature dishes, you get to make your own bowl: choose the broth, customize the flavor (or let the ramen master decide!), pick your noodles, and top it all off with your favorite things.
Location: various, 4 locations
2. Menya Ultra Ramen Mira Mesa
Menya Ultra serves amazing authentic Japanese ramen, and in 2021 it was included in the Michelin California Guide. They have 3 locations throughout San Diego and are always busy! The talented staff serves all the customers as fast as possible while providing fantastic service. Everything in your ramen is made from scratch so expect a mouthwatering experience!
Location: 8141, San Diego, CA 92126
3. Yakitori Yakyudori
This Kerny Mesa eatery is primarily known for its delicious yakitori cooked with authentic white charcoal and amazing ramen. Our favorites include their Tonkotsu and Nagoya Ramen. This has long been a local favorite; however, their prices have also increased, though the quality and flavors are still top-notch!
Location: 4898 Convoy St #101, San Diego, CA 92111
4. Tajima Convoy
Tajima is a ramen institution. They have multiple locations throughout the city, but the original on Convoy is still dear and near to longtime patrons. You have to try their signature Tajima Ramen. The broth is creamy and flavorful, and the pork is incredibly tender.
Location: 4681 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
5. Rakiraki Ramen & Tsukemen
This popular ramen spot in San Diego is perfect for a delicious and cozy lunch or dinner. The food will definitely be worth the wait, especially if you get the Kimchi Ramen! The spicy miso soup is delicious, and the smoky rib is so tender it will fall off the bone. They have four San Diego locations in Little Italy, Liberty Station, Mira Mesa, and the original, on Convoy.
Location: 4646 Convoy St #102-A, San Diego, CA 92111
6. Nishiki Ramen
Nishiki opened its Kearny Mesa location in 2015 and has since been serving delicious “Tokyo Style” ramen to locals! They now have more locations, so chances are, there’s one near you. Their ramen noodles and soups are made in-house every day, and you can even watch the staff make the noodles inside the restaurant! People love their Smoke Bomb Black, with delicious pork and black garlic sauce.
Location: 8055 Armour St #201a, San Diego, CA 92111
7. Weapon Ramen
This Liberty Market eatery is the ideal spot for those looking for anime flair along with their noodles! You can choose between a pork-based tonkotsu with chashu slices or a veggie soy-mushroom option.
Location: 2820 Historic Decatur Rd Suite 9, San Diego, CA 92106
8. BESHOCK Ramen
BESHOCK is a Japanese eatery in East Village in Downtown San Diego. They serve traditional Japanese and global cuisine and give their food a unique San Diego twist by using local and fresh ingredients. They have a wide range of delicous ramen, including traditional favorites, as well as vegetarian and vegan options. BESHOCK is excellent for both lunch and dinner and has full bar service.
Location: 1288 Market St, San Diego, CA 92101
9. Underbelly
Underbelly is a popular and hip eatery serving up Japanese cuisine among inventive and funky cocktails. We recommend their Belly of the Beast ramen and whiskey passion fruit cocktail.
Location: 3000 Upas St Ste 104 San Diego, CA 92104
10. Santouka Ramen
Located inside the Mitsuwa Marketplace, this casual eatery serves standard and tasty ramen. Order at the counter and sit yourself down to enjoy a cozy and quick meal. Don’t expect anything fancy, but expect great flavors and portion sizes! Try their Spicy Miso.
Location: 4240 Kearny Mesa Rd, San Diego, CA 92111
11. Wa Dining Okan
Wa Dining Okan is a traditional Japanese eatery, serving homestyle dishes sourced from its own farm. And though they may not be known for their ramen, that doesn’t mean it’s not amazing. You’ll find the selection under the noodle section of the menu, and prices start at $10 a bowl. It’s definitely a bit of a hidden gem when it comes to ramen spots in San Diego.
Location: 3860 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
12. Hironori Craft Ramen
Labeled as one of the best ramen spots in San Diego by the locals. They have a small selection of ramen that are all delicious, from shoyu to tonkotsu, or even vegan. What makes them special is their attention to detail and dedication to their high quality ingredients. Expect handmade noodles everyday, barrel-aged soy sauce, tonkotsu broth boiled for 24 hours and high quality pork. It’s also listed in the Michelin guide if you needed any more convincing.
Location: 3803 Fifth Ave, San Diego
13. Izakaya Masa
Some say this is one of the best bowls of ramen they’ve had outside of Japan – those who have been lucky enough to enjoy ramen in both cities, have great things to say about Izayaka Masa. Tuck into a bowl of Shoyu Ramen or Hakata Ramen with fried garlic, green onion, red ginger, and dried seaweed. You can’t go wrong!
Location: 928 Fort Stockton Dr, San Diego
14. Baikohken Ramen
Some ramen lovers love a classic, while others love a good twist, or a touch of innovation. But if you’re open to all of the above, this may be the perfect spot. Baikohken first operated in Hokkaido, Japan, and it was recognized by Michelin twice – in 2012 and 2017. Since last year, San Diegans can get the same amazing experience. This spot makes its own soy sauce and miso, which tells you they’re serious about ramen. Their spicy garlic ramen bowl is a fan favorite!