Here you get Oslo's best: ramen
Steaming power, springy noodles and just the right amount of chili. When the temperatures drop, there are few things that beat a really good bowl of ramen. Here are five places in Oslo that we think are worth a visit.
Ramen is Japanese comfort food at its finest. A seemingly simple noodle soup can take hours of work, layered with umami and everything from tender pork to marinated egg, chili oil and crispy vegetables.
In recent years, Oslo has seen an increasing number of places taking the dish seriously. Some stick closely to Japanese traditions, while others mix them with Nordic ingredients and more modern flavors. These are five of our favorites right now.
Ramen
Hrimnir in Maridalsveien has made a name for itself for its Nordic interpretation of the Japanese classic. Here, traditional techniques meet local and seasonal ingredients from the fjord, forest and mountains.
The menu changes throughout the year, but the common denominator is flavorful power bases, homemade noodles, and combinations that feel both thoughtful and a little unexpected. Feel free to order a few side dishes and turn your visit into a full dinner.
Address: Maridalsveien 9A
Koie Ramen
Koie was among the places that really put ramen on the map in Oslo. Here, the kitchen prepares both soups and noodles from scratch, and the menu stays relatively simple with classic variations and Japanese snacks.
The relaxed atmosphere makes Koie just as suitable for a quick lunch as it is for dinner with friends. Try a hearty tonkotsu or a lighter shoyu, and add gyoza or karaage if you're extra hungry.
Koie has restaurants in Osterhaus' gate, on Grünerløkka, in Torggata and at MUNCH.
Sapporo Ramen Bar
Sapporo Ramen Bar is a small and unpretentious place that many ramen enthusiasts keep coming back to. It's less about a polished restaurant concept and more about hot bowls, generous flavors, and an atmosphere that feels liberatingly casual.
The menu includes shoyu, miso and spicy ramen. Go for miso if you like a round and salty broth, or choose the strong variety 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 stock simmer for hours to build the deep umami flavor that characterizes a good bowl.
The menu offers several expressions, from a classic shio paitan to creamy tantanmen and seafood-based ebi miso. There is also a vegetarian option. A good choice when a group of friends wants different flavors, but gathers around the same type of comfort food. Personally, I thought this one tops the throne.
Address: Munkedamsveien 31
Genji Izakaya
Genji is perfect for those who want more than a quick bowl at the bar. The restaurant combines ramen with sushi, Japanese snacks and a comprehensive drinks menu in atmospheric surroundings.
Here you can choose from shoyu, tonkotsu, tantanmen and a stronger devil ramen. There is also a vegetarian miso variant 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 the grey weather
There's a ramen for almost every mood. Some days call for a light and salty shoyu, while others need a creamy tonkotsu with extra chili oil. What they all have in common is the great feeling when the steaming bowl of kraft lands on the table: autumn is finally getting a little less cold, and a whole lot cozier.