The instant microwavable noodles packed into a styrofoam cup became a staple for those with impaired cooking abilities and college students. The phrase ‘ramen noodles’ often holds the conception of being an easy, inexpensive, and less than a healthy meal, but this has depreciated traditional Japanese Ramen. However, lately, Ramen bars and restaurants have become increasingly popular, reinstating this forgotten Japanese cuisine. Whether this trend has come from the popularity of Japanese anime incorporating the cuisine into their productions or the craze for build-your-own bowl style restaurants, the industry is booming from it.

Traditionally, Ramen has a consistency of soup served in a meat or fish-based broth with various ingredients and topping. The primary and defining element is the noodles-a Japanese adaptation of Chinese wheat noodles. Now I won’t bore you with Ramen’s riveting history, but rather encourage you to indulge in some yourself. Especially if you are a devout consumer of Maruchan Ramen Noodle Soup, you don’t know what you are missing. 

In the surrounding Woodlands area, there are many up-and-coming establishments dedicated to serving Ramen. They offer classic recipes or the choice of building your ramen bowl, including the preference of noodles, sauces, broths, meats, and veggies. Here are a few of them (all include delivery and takeout options):

• Aiji Robata & Ramen
• Daikoku Ramen and Kushiyaki
• Jinya Ramen Bar