Steaming broth, springy noodles and just the right amount of chilli. When temperatures drop, few things beat a really good bowl of ramen. Here are five places in Oslo we think are worth a visit.
Ramen is Japanese comfort food at its very best. A seemingly simple noodle soup can contain hours of work, layer upon layer of umami and everything from tender pork to marinated egg, chilli oil and crunchy vegetables.
In recent years, Oslo has gained more and more places that take the dish seriously. Some stay close to Japanese traditions, while others blend them with Nordic ingredients and more modern flavours. These are five of our favourites right now.
Hrimnir Ramen
Hrimnir in Maridalsveien has become known for its Nordic interpretation of the Japanese classic. Here, traditional techniques meet local and seasonal ingredients from fjord, forest and mountain.
The menu changes throughout the year, but the common denominators are flavourful broth bases, homemade noodles and combinations that feel both well thought out and a little unexpected. Order a few small plates on the side and make the visit a full dinner.
Address: Maridalsveien 9A
Koie Ramen
Koie was among the places that really put ramen on the map in Oslo. The kitchen makes both broths and noodles from scratch, and the menu stays relatively simple, with classic varieties and Japanese small plates.
The relaxed atmosphere makes Koie just as suitable for a quick lunch as for dinner with friends. Try a rich tonkotsu or a lighter shoyu, and add gyoza or karaage if you’re extra hungry.
Koie has restaurants in Osterhaus’ gate, Grünerløkka, Torggata and at MUNCH.
Sapporo Ramen Bar
Sapporo Ramen Bar is a small, unpretentious place that many ramen enthusiasts keep coming back to. It’s less about a polished restaurant concept and more about warm bowls, generous flavours and an atmosphere that feels refreshingly informal.
The menu includes shoyu, miso and spicy ramen. Go for miso if you like a rounded, salty broth, or choose the spicy version when the autumn weather calls for a little extra heat.
Address: Maridalsveien 21
Miso Ramen
In the middle of Vika you’ll find Miso Ramen, a newer addition to the city’s ramen scene. Here, the kitchen lets the broth simmer for hours to build the deep umami flavour that defines a good bowl.
The menu offers several styles, from a classic shio paitan to creamy tantanmen and seafood-based ebi miso. There’s also a vegetarian option. A good choice when your group of friends wants different flavours but is united by the same kind of comfort food. Personally, I think this one takes the crown.
Address: Munkedamsveien 31
Genji Izakaya
Genji is for those who want more than a quick bowl at the bar counter. The restaurant combines ramen with sushi, Japanese small plates and a well-curated drinks list in atmospheric surroundings.
Here you can choose between shoyu, tonkotsu, tantanmen and a spicier devil ramen, among others. There’s also a vegetarian miso option and a more luxurious version with wagyu. Bring a date, order several dishes to share and let the dinner last a little longer.
Address: Prinsens gate 8
The perfect medicine for grey weather
There’s a ramen for almost every mood. Some days call for a light, salty shoyu, while others need a creamy tonkotsu with extra chilli oil. What they all have in common is that delicious feeling when the steaming bowl of broth lands on the table: autumn finally feels a little less cold, and so much cosier.