Where to Find Japan’s Best Michelin-Listed Noodles

Japan is a dream destination for food lovers, where every meal feels like an adventure. From fresh sushi at a standing counter to piping-hot bowls of ramen in cozy neighborhood shops, the country is world-famous for its culinary scene – and noodles are no exception. While there are currently no Michelin-starred noodle restaurants in Japan, the Michelin Guide still celebrates many standout shops under its Bib Gourmand category, which spotlights incredible food at a great value. Whether you’re a ramen enthusiast or a soba purist, this guide will help you discover some of the most delicious bowls worth slurping on your next trip.

Soba vs. Ramen: What’s the Difference?

Before diving into the list, it’s helpful to know the difference between Japan’s two most beloved noodles: soba and ramen.

Soba is made primarily from buckwheat flour, giving it a nutty flavor and a firmer, thinner texture. One of the most unique things about soba is that it can be enjoyed either hot or cold. In the summer, chilled soba is often served on a bamboo tray called zaru, alongside a small cup of dipping sauce (tsuyu) made from soy sauce, mirin, and dashi. You dip each bite before eating, making it a refreshing, interactive way to enjoy noodles. In colder months, soba is more commonly served in a hot, comforting broth, warming not only your stomach but your whole being.

Ramen, on the other hand, is made with wheat flour and alkaline water, giving it its signature yellow hue and springy, chewy texture. It’s almost always served hot, in a steaming bowl of broth that can range from rich and creamy to light and clear, depending on the style. Each bowl is usually topped with flavorful ingredients like sliced pork (chashu), green onions, bamboo shoots, or a soft-boiled egg.

No matter which noodle you try, you’ll find yourself craving another bite, then another bowl. And that’s especially true for those recognized by the Michelin Guide – home to some of the most unforgettable noodles you’ll ever taste. So now that we know our soba and our ramen, let’s take a closer look at the Michelin Guide itself, and what it really means to earn a place on its prestigious list.

Michelin Guide – What is it?

The Michelin Guide is one of the most respected names in the food world, created over a century ago by the Michelin tire company to inspire people to travel and explore new places. What started as a simple travel guide has become a global authority on dining, celebrating restaurants that go above and beyond in quality, creativity, and consistency. Anonymous inspectors visit each restaurant and rate their experience based on the taste, technique, and overall personality of the food. Earning a Michelin Star – or even a mention – is a sign that a restaurant has something truly special, the kind of meal that stays with you long after you’ve left the table. In Japan, where every dish reflects deep care and craftsmanship, being recognized by the Michelin Guide is a badge of honor for chefs who have turned cooking into an art form.

Michelin-Recognized Noodle Shops to Try

Tsuta (Tokyo)

The first ramen shop to ever receive a Michelin star back in 2015, Tsuta is credited with elevating ramen and soba to a fine-dining level while keeping prices modest. Their most popular dish is Shoyu (soy sauce) Soba with a chicken-and-seafood stock base, topped with black truffle oil or paste for a luxurious aroma and depth of flavor.

Address: Japan, 〒151-0066 Tokyo, Shibuya, Nishihara, 3 Chome−2−4 フロンティア代々木上原 B1

Hours: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Closed Tuesdays)

Price Range: ¥2,000–¥4,000

Phone Number: +81364168620

Website: http://www.tsuta79.tokyo/

Sosakumenkobo Nakiryu (Tokyo)

Better known as “Nakiryu”, this small shop earned its Michelin star in 2017 and is best known for its spicy Tantanmen ramen. The sesame-based broth with chili oil and soy sauce is topped with minced pork and classic garnishes, creating a perfect balance of heat and umami.

Address: Japan, 〒170-0005 Tokyo, Toshima City, Minamiotsuka, 2 Chome−34−4 ＳＫＹ南大塚 １F

Hours: 11:00 AM – 3:30 PM (Closed Tuesdays)

Price Range: ¥1,000–¥2,000

Phone Number: +81363041811

Website: https://gf8f400.gorp.jp/

Konjiki Hototogisu (Tokyo)

Recognized by the Michelin Guide for years, Konjiki Hototogisu earned its Michelin star in 2018 and continues to hold Bib Gourmand status today. Their Shio Hamaguri Ramen and Shoyu Hamaguri Ramen both feature clam-based broths enhanced with truffle oil, porcini mushrooms, and two types of chashu (pork and wagyu).

Address: Japan, 〒160-0022 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Shinjuku, 2 Chome−4−1 第22宮庭マンション 1階105号室

Hours: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM & 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM (Closed Sundays & Mondays)

Price Range: ¥1,000–¥2,000

Phone Number: +81353154733

Website: https://sobahousekonjikihototogisu.com/

Chukasoba Ginza Hachigō (Tokyo)

The last noodle shop to receive a Michelin star (in 2022), Chukasoba Ginza Hachigō stands out for its unique blend of French culinary techniques and Japanese ramen tradition. Unlike other ramen shops, Hachigō skips soy sauce and instead creates a clear, consommé-like broth made from duck, chicken, and shellfish. Their Special Chuka Soba is a must-order.

Address: Japan, 〒104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, 3 Chome−14−2 第一はなぶさビル 1階

Hours: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Closed Mondays & Tuesdays)

Price Range: ¥1,000–¥2,000

Website: https://katsumoto-japan.com/ja/ginza_hachigou.html

Kombu to Men Kiichi (Kyoto)

Kombu to Men Kiichi offers a unique experience. Before receiving their signature Kombu Ramen, guests are invited to taste different types of kombu – a type of kelp that forms the base of a lot of Japanese cuisine – along with kombu water and shredded kombu. The ramen itself uses only kombu dashi (kelp stock) without added tare, letting the pure umami of the sea take center stage.

Address: 74-2 Nishiitsutsuji Higashimachi, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, 602-8478, Japan

Hours: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Closed Tuesdays & Wednesdays)

Price Range: ¥1,000–¥2,000

Phone Number: +818072277500

Website: https://itutuji.com/kiichi/

Vegan Ramen Uzu (Kyoto)

A dream spot for vegan travelers looking to enjoy ramen, Uzu offers plant-based ramen made with a 12-hour vegetable and kelp broth. Their Soy Sauce & Fermented Mugwort Ramen and Spicy Miso & Sake Kasu Ramen are the restaurant’s sought-after dishes. The dining experience is one-of-a-kind – using a digital art installation of teamLab’s “Reversible Rotation” – this restaurant will make the ramen experience truly unforgettable.

Address: 7146 Umenokicho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-0905, Japan

Hours: 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM & 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Closed Wednesdays)

Website: https://vegan-uzu.com/

Ramen Kuon (Osaka)

A Bib Gourmand favorite, Ramen Kuon serves its standout dish, Shio Soba (salt ramen), with a broth made of fish, shellfish, and chicken. The noodles are high-hydration, meaning that they are made from three types of wheat flour, giving them a smooth and bouncy texture. Their three varieties of chashu are a favorite among visitors.

Address: Japan, 〒541-0055 Osaka, Chuo Ward, Senbachuo, 1 Chome−4−3 船場センタービル 3号館地下2階

Hours: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Closed Sundays)

Price Range: ¥1,000–¥2,000

Website: https://linktr.ee/ramen_kuon2020

Slurp Your Way Through Japan

Japan’s noodle scene is as creative and diverse as the country itself, offering everything from truffle-infused ramen to kombu-focused broths and vegan-friendly bowls. These Michelin-recognized spots prove that you don’t need a formal dining experience to enjoy exceptional food. So, when planning your next trip to Japan, make sure to carve out time to explore these restaurants. Slow down, grab a seat, and savor each bite – because few experiences are as memorable as slurping your way through Japan, one unforgettable bowl at a time.

Featured Photo Credit: Addictive Stock

There’s more to discover in Japan’s culinary world. Check out our list of Food Tours and explore Japan through its food, trust us, you’ll be leaving full and happy!