As the weather cools throughout autumn and the chill of winter approaches, there’s nothing so comforting as a warm bowl of soup. Now, for many soup lovers, only one kind of hearty, savory, succulent soup reigns supreme: ramen. Savory broth bathes tender noodles, toppings get slurped up with every bite—it's heaven in a bowl! As you know, every ramen house has its own take on the traditional flavors. We’ve been trying ramen all over the region, and today, we’re sharing our Top Ten picks.
Perhaps you’ve enjoyed ramen for decades, or perhaps you’re in the mood to try it for the first time. Either way, you’ll be delighted by the following locations we’ve voted in as Middle Tennessee’s Best Ramen Shops!
Otaku Ramen
Nashville, TN
Nashville’s Otaku Ramen serves up six ramen styles (soy sauce, pork bone, chicken, miso, Szechuan miso, and two vegan options) alongside a selection of both Tennessee favorites and Japanese-inspired small plates and appetizers. Their minimalist, casual dining space is perfect for small groups, families, and single diners alike. The delicious Japanese cocktail menu features premium sake, Japanese whiskey, and shochu.
Maki Mojo
Franklin, TN
Maki Mojo is a cozy homestyle Asian Fusion restaurant located away from the busy town center. They serve three types of traditional Japanese ramen (pork bone, spicy miso, and soy sauce) alongside Vietnamese pho, as well as Thai, Korean, and Chinese-influenced dishes. While Maki Mojo’s wildly popular cuisine might make it a bit tricky to order over the phone or snag a table on the weekends, keep trying if you’re anywhere near Franklin—it's worth it!
Two Ten Jack
Nashville, TN
Two Ten Jack’s warm and welcoming style is inspired by Japan’s neighborhood pubs, or izayaka. In addition to their four ramen styles (pork, chicken, brothless, and vegan), they serve sushi, noodles, small plates, and salads. Their drink menu includes craft cocktails, beer, sake, wine, and both Japanese and single-malt whiskeys.
This popular destination is usually packed, but only half of the dining room is set aside for walk-ins. If you want to skip the line, Two Ten Jack offers reservations, which can be placed over the phone, online, or through the Resy app.
Brothers Ramen
Murfreesboro, TN
For an authentic taste of Japan, Brothers Ramen is hard to beat. Choose from ten ramen styles (based on broths of pork, chicken, seafood, beef, miso, or vegetables), but don’t skip the appetizers! We love their steamed buns, gyoza, and boneless fried chicken. We recommend Brothers Ramen for a simple dining experience that lets the food and service speak for itself.
Shokku Ramen
Nashville, TN
This adorable Japanese restaurant serves delicious ramen alongside a twist of humor and a healthy side of anime! Choose from pork, chicken, or mushroom broth, add your favorite from a selection of protein options, then decide on your toppings! This fully customizable experience is ideal for anyone who is just getting into ramen, though the authentic flavor crafted here is also suitable for even the most discerning palates.
Sapporo
Gallatin, TN
Sapporo is beloved for their extensive sushi menu, Korean BBQ (ask for this option when you check in), and of course, for their delicious ramen! Choose from beef, Korean-inspired galbi, kimchi ramen, miso ramen, and spicy seafood ramen, all of which feature unique Korean influences.
Chatime
Nashville, TN
Chatime’s casual, café-style atmosphere might lead you to think that they only serve the boba milk tea they’re famous for, but don’t miss out on their great ramen menu! Choose from miso, pork, chicken, beef, seafood, or vegan ramen to enjoy along with your milk tea, fruit tea, matcha, smoothie, or gourmet coffee drink. Child-friendly menu items include appetizers like spring rolls and fries as well as a child’s ramen bowl.
MoriMori
Mt. Juliet, TN
MoriMori serves sushi, Korean BBQ, seafood, tempura, vegan meals, stir-fried noodles, japchae, fried rice platters—and, of course, ramen! Their four ramen styles include miso, spicy miso, pork, and soy. We think MoriMori is ideal for groups, especially when you’re each in the mood for something the others aren’t—and haven’t we all been there! If you’re a fan of Asian cuisine, you’re sure to find something mouth-watering here.
Black Dynasty Secret Ramen House
Nashville, TN
Black Dynasty Secret’s staff prides itself on preparing absolutely everything in-house, from noodles to their broths—and even oils! Choose from pork, chicken, vegan, or “hellfire” spicy ramen, then “slurp it hot, slurp it fast.”
Yummy Poki
Smyrna, TN
Yummy Poki is committed to offering Smyrna delicious Japanese food at an affordable price, which sums up why it’s such a beloved restaurant. Enjoy appetizers and small plates, sushi, poke bowls, grilled entrees, boba milk tea, and eight types of ramen! Choose from beef, pork, mushroom, or seafood broths, then the style you’re craving, and you’re halfway to a delicious destination.
Now we want to hear from you! What’s your favorite style of ramen? Where have you had the best ramen of your life? Or, if you’re brand-new to authentic Japanese ramen, which kind are you dying to try? Leave us a comment below.
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