Ramen Taka is known for its Hakata-style tonkotsu, a simple ramen with a silky pork bone broth, thin noodles, and minimal toppings (egg, chashu pork, mushrooms, scallions).
This restaurant and bar near Berryessa is known for its classic tonkotsu and spicy tonkotsu versions of ramen.
If you’re not a fan of weightier, gut-busting broths made with tonkotsu, chicken, or miso, try one of Afuri’s yuzu ramen styles, which lean on the Japanese citrus for a lighter, more refreshing broth.
Santa Clara’s insanely popular ramen spot Orenchi offers many of the classics like tonkotsu, shio, and shoyu, but there’s also a flavorful, plant-based vegan curry ramen with a cornucopia of fresh vegetables.
This San Jose spot is a favorite among spice lovers, who are quick to highlight fiery favorites like the Volcano Fire Ramen, with pork broth, kimchi, and plenty of chili flakes.
The bestselling Tonkotsu Ramen at this burgeoning California ramen chain boasts a 24-hour simmered pork bone broth.
A less expected but equally delicious way to enjoy ramen: served Korean-style, with a fiery, medium-spicy broth, green onions, and an egg.
Big T’s, a seafood bar with essentials like clam chowder and lobster rolls, also boasts a unique version of ramen with a whole Dungeness crab.
