All hail ramen! Ramen, known as the King of Noodles, because its iconic status in Japanese cuisine, has made its mark on our own local food culture over the years. Fast forward from the Ichiban packaged noodles of the 1980s to the now authentic restaurant versions featuring in-house made noodles and soul-satisfying broths, this noodle soup has transcended its origins as a staple of Japanese comfort food to a global food phenomenon. And really, what is better than slurping on a steaming bowl of noodles in a soul-soothing broth to make things right in the world again?
We have several restaurants serving up the ramen in Kelowna to explore!
Kelowna Ramen Restaurants
Wasabi Ramen and Izakaya
Wasabi Ramen and Izakaya was the OG local Japanese restaurant to start making ramen in-house. Owner and chef, Jyunya Nakamura makes his noodles fresh daily along with batches of his delicious original broth. The menu offers a variety of broth options to choose from (including a vegan option) and a delicious range of toppings as well as a seasonal bowl featuring local ingredients. Located downtown Kelowna, take home Ramen Kits are also available fresh or frozen to assemble in your own kitchen.
Little TOKYO Ramen Trailer
The Little TOKYO Ramen Trailer has a serious local cult following in Kelowna. Open year round, you will find this cute little trailer of deliciousness parked at Barn Owl Brewing in the Mission – and y’all know how well ramen pairs with beer right? Traditional, handmade noodles and from scratch broths are created here by husband-and-wife team Yuuki and Jessica Sato. Word is that the Red Spicy Miso Ramen is a must.
Yuzu Bowl & Bistro
Yuzu Bowl and Bistro has also been serving its local fans all sorts of delicious bowls of goodness, including ramen. A great location downtown, stroll around the shops nearby and then head here to enjoy a wide variety of Japanese fusion style food from sushi and rice bowls to burgers and bulgogi-- there is something for everyone on this menu. If you want ramen, the Yuzu Shio Ramen is a favourite.
KOKORO Japanese Ramen
Brand new on Kelowna’s ramen scene is KOKORO Japanese Ramen located on in North Kelowna’s Brewery District. The interior features brick walls and a modern design giving it a very urban vibe. The KOKORO brand opened its first shop in Japan in 2014 with much acclaim. The menu offers ramen as well as other traditional Japanese dishes as well as their Mazesoba noodles, the dry style noodles that KOKORO is famous for.
Kinton Ramen
Kinton Ramen is another Kelowna’s newest eateries. One of the largest ramen chains in North America, this shop has opened on bustling Bernard Avenue. Cool, modern design with an open kitchen, there are tables if you want to slurp along with a buddy or bar seats perfect for those who like to enjoy their ramen alone. Try the Cozy KINTON Combo with Burnt Shoyu Ramen served with Tokyo Fries or Gyoza and a drink like a hot yuzu honey tea. If you feel like a bevvie, Sapporo beer is on tap as well as some fun Japanese style cocktails.
Ramen Arashi
Ramen Arashi is also relatively new to the Kelowna culinary scene. Located on Dayton Street, near the Landmark buildings, Ramen Arashi is a welcome addition to this business centred neighbourhood that is also home to the seasonal outdoor Kelowna Farmers’ & Crafters Market. Specialities including the Tonkatsu Ramen made with an authentic tonkatsu broth and topped with pork belly and marinated egg (for those who love the heat this is available in regular, spicy, or the ‘Devil’s Arashi’).
T-One Asian Fusion
T-One Asian Fusion combines the flavours of Japanese and Taiwanese food to create a menu with tastes of both worlds. Primely located across from Kelowna’s famous Gyro Beach, the ramen menu here has a few creative options including a Tempura Ramen or try the Special Dry Ramen with stewed minced pork belly, egg, cucumber, carrots, cilantro, bean sprouts and no broth!