Bill Kim Ramen Bar specializes in broths that draw on Korean, Vietnamese and Mexican flavors, garnished with a creative array of toppings. Whether you’re looking for a conventional bowl or ramen or something a bit more adventurous, Kim has something you can enjoy by the spoonful.
Few things are as comforting as ramen. The combination of rich, creamy broth with springy noodles is like a warm hug in a bowl. Though the dish may seem simple, a lot of love and labor actually goes into it. And only a handful of Chicagoland shops have mastered the art of ramen. You can find everything from Ramen Wasabi’s porky tonkotsu to gyukotsu-style ramen, a specialty of southern Japan, at Logan Square's Monster Ramen. There are even plant-based broths for vegans and vegetarians from Tokyo chain Rakkan Ramen. Some places adhere strictly to traditional toppings, while others mix things up with unorthodox ingredients such as fried chicken karaage and mussels. And you won’t break the bank, because these spots are among the finest cheap eats in Chicago. So it doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned noodles expert or if your only ramen experience is with the instant variety, our guide to the best ramen shops in the city will have you slurping all the same.
RECOMMENDED: Discover more of the best Japanese restaurants in Chicago