A Must-Visit for Ramen Lovers! Honest Review of Seoul’s Niji Ramen

 

What comes to your mind when you think of food during the cold winter? In the United States, dishes like chicken noodle soup, clam chowder, and chili might come to mind. In Korea, many people prefer warm, hearty soups. Today, I’d like to introduce you to the special charm of Japanese ramen. Recently, I visited ‘Niji Ramen,’ a ramen specialty restaurant located in Jongno, Seoul.

 

 

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Interior Ambiance

Located on the basement floor, ‘Niji Ramen’ is a cozy ramen shop that reminds you of traditional Japanese ramen restaurants. The entrance is adorned with Japanese-style decorations and signage that immediately catch your attention. Inside, the layout features bar seating and small tables, making it perfect for solo diners or small gatherings with friends. At the bar, you can enjoy an up-close view of the cooking process, adding an interactive element to your meal. The warm, yellow lighting fills the space with a cozy and inviting atmosphere, while the minimalist décor evokes a sense of calmness and immerses you in the authentic vibe of Japan.

 

 

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Main Menu & Prices

Main Menu & Prices
• Tonkotsu Ramen: 11,000 KRW (7.54 USD)
• Spicy Tonkotsu Ramen: 11,000 KRW  (7.54 USD)
• Shoyu Ramen: 11,000 KRW (7.54 USD)
• Small Yaki Gyoza: 5,000 KRW (3.43 USD)
• Rice: Free

 

I ordered their signature Tonkotsu Ramen, Yaki Gyoza, and a refreshing beer to accompany the meal. The Tonkotsu Ramen was impressive, with its rich, flavorful broth that tasted like it had been simmered with pork bones for hours. It was clean and well-balanced without any overwhelming porky odor, and the seasoning was just right, making it easy to enjoy.

 

The noodles were perfectly chewy and springy, pairing wonderfully with the broth. The thick slices of char siu pork on top were slightly seared, giving them a tender texture and a slightly smoky flavor that added depth to the dish.

 

 

 

The Yaki Gyoza was crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making it an ideal complement to the ramen. I found myself enjoying the rice more with the gyoza than with the ramen itself. Compared to the heavily salted ramen I tried in Japan, Niji Ramen’s dishes seemed to be thoughtfully adjusted to suit Korean palates without losing their authenticity.

 

 

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How to Get There

‘Niji Ramen’ is located at B1, 34, Daehak-ro 1-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul. It’s a 5-minute walk from Exit 1 of Jongno 5-ga Station. The restaurant is easy to find and conveniently accessible by public transportation.

 

 

니지라멘 · 서울특별시 종로구 연지동 지하1층 258-8

 

Business Hours
• Monday to Friday : 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
• Saturday & Public Holidays : 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM
( Closed on Sundays )

 

 

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On a day when you’re craving something warm and hearty, why not try the rich and authentic flavors of Japanese ramen at ‘Niji Ramen’? With its satisfying broth, springy noodles, and tender pork, a single bowl is sure to warm both your body and soul. I hope you’ll visit and enjoy this cozy spot in the heart of Seoul. Stay tuned for more delicious stories next time!