Over the past three years, my work has frequently anchored me in the Somerset area, turning the surrounding malls and side streets into my personal dining room. During that time, I’ve methodically worked my way through over thirty different ramen bowls within a three minute walk of Somerset MRT station and nearby Orchard Road. I didn’t set out to be a ramen critic; I was simply on a highly personal quest to find reliable comfort food after long, exhausting days in the city center.
Finding good ramen among the diverse Somerset food scene isn’t hard, but finding the right bowl for your specific mood is an entirely different challenge. Sometimes you want a delicate, restorative chicken broth that won’t leave you feeling weighed down. Other days, you crave the bold, unapologetic richness of a heavy pork tonkotsu. Along the way, I’ve also discovered places serving more than just ramen — from delicious Vietnamese pho to grilled lamb and tender beef dishes, reflecting the area’s rich culinary diversity influenced by Chinese and Japanese traditions.
I’ve braved brutal peak-hour queues, tested late-night supper spots, and sampled premium Michelin-starred counters to figure out which restaurants are truly worth your time and money. This journey was created from my genuine pride in exploring Somerset’s food offerings and sharing honest insights. Here are the 9 ramen spots in and around the Somerset district that I keep returning to, complete with honest highs, practical lows, and why they made this list.
1. Tsuta Japanese Soba Noodles - 313@Somerset: A Fragrant Somerset Food Experience
Nearest MRT: Somerset MRT (1-min walk, exit B)
Price Range: (SGD 18–25 per person)
Tsuta stands out in the 313 Somerset food scene for its refined take on truffle-infused ramen without feeling gimmicky. Their signature Truffle Shoyu Soba ($17.80) features an additive-free broth that is remarkably clear and clean. When the bowl arrives, the fragrant aroma of truffle oil hits you immediately but never overpowers the delicate umami taste of the shoyu.
The noodles here have a slightly softer, elegant bite that pairs perfectly with the refined soup. It feels more like a fine-dining dish than a quick street-side slurp. I visited on a quiet Tuesday morning right when they opened, and the kitchen’s precision was designed to enhance the dining experience — the effort behind each bowl is clear.
Unlike the heavier pork broths found elsewhere, Tsuta’s portions are noticeably lighter. You won’t leave feeling uncomfortably stuffed, making it a perfect midday meal when you want to savour without overindulging.
Perfect choice for: Foodies seeking a refined, Michelin-style ramen experience close to Orchard Road.
May not suit you if: You want a massive, heavy portion of thick pork broth to cure a hangover.
Local recommendation: Request a counter seat closest to the kitchen for the best ramen-bar atmosphere and to watch the chefs carefully assemble each bowl.
2. IPPUDO MANDARIN GALLERY: Classic Pork and Rice Bowls Near Somerset MRT Station
Nearest MRT: Somerset MRT (7-min walk)
Price Range: (SGD 20–30 per person)
Ippudo earns a spot on this list for its unwavering consistency in delivering classic tonkotsu ramen. Their Shiromaru Classic ($18.00) features a silky, milky pork broth that coats thin, straight Hakata-style noodles beautifully. Located just a short walk from Somerset MRT station, it’s a crowd favourite among locals and visitors alike.
The polished dining room can get loud during lunch rush hours, but the quality of the chashu—tender and fatty—makes it worth the visit. I usually opt for my noodles cooked “firm,” which pairs perfectly with the rich pork soup. Besides ramen, their menu offers rice bowls and other dishes that complement the meal, including options with beef and lamb for those who want to choose something beyond noodles.
Perfect choice for: Tonkotsu purists and first-time ramen eaters looking for classic, foolproof flavours.
May not suit you if: You dislike rich, fatty pork broths or want to avoid busy dining options during peak hours.
Local recommendation: Visit before 6:00 pm to skip the queues and always ask for your noodles “firm” for authentic texture.
3. Kanshoku Ramen Bar: A Chicken-Based Alternative with a Mix of Flavours
Nearest MRT: Somerset MRT (3-min walk)
Price Range: (SGD 15–22 per person)
Kanshoku is my go-to when dining with friends who prefer a diverse range of flavours. Their Black Garlic Ramen ($17.90) delivers a thick, savory chicken broth layered with an intense roasted garlic aroma. It’s a great alternative for those who want to enjoy ramen without pork.
The noodles hold up well to the heavy soup, and the marinated egg is always perfectly soft in the center. The halal-friendly menu makes it accessible to a variety of customers. During a busy weekend, the fast, friendly service was a welcome break from the Orchard Road crowds.
Perfect choice for: Muslim diners, mixed groups, and anyone craving a rich chicken broth.
May not suit you if: You’re a strict tonkotsu traditionalist who demands pork fat in your soup.
Local recommendation: Pair your ramen with their fried chicken sides for a satisfying meal.
4. Nantsuttei: Savour Bold Garlic Flavours Close to Orchard Road
Nearest MRT: Somerset MRT (4-min walk)
Price Range: (SGD 15–20 per person)
Nantsuttei is famed for its mastery of mayu, or black roasted garlic oil. Their signature Nantsuttei Ramen ($16.00) features a thick layer of jet-black oil floating over creamy pork broth, delivering a smoky garlic punch that’s addictive.
Tucked away on the seventh floor of Orchard Central mall, it’s a quieter spot to enjoy a bold, fragrant bowl. The broth’s rich complexity cuts through the fat beautifully, making it perfect for garlic lovers wanting to indulge.
Perfect choice for: Fans of strong, smoky garlic flavours and seasoned ramen enthusiasts.
May not suit you if: You’re sensitive to garlic or prefer light, clear soups.
Local recommendation: Ask for extra mayu oil if you want to up the roasted garlic intensity.
5. Ichikokudo Hokkaido Ramen: Budget-Friendly Comfort Food with Rice Bowls
Nearest MRT: Somerset MRT (1-min walk, exit B)
Price Range: (SGD 12–18 per person)
For a budget-friendly meal that doesn’t compromise on quality, Ichikokudo in the basement of 313 Somerset is a go-to. Specializing in Hokkaido-style chicken broth, their soup is lighter and sweeter than typical tonkotsu.
Their Hokkaido Karaage Ramen ($14.90) pairs a clean, golden broth flavored with kelp and bonito with crispy fried chicken. The thicker, softer noodles suit the Hokkaido style well, making it a hearty meal for the price. The location inside a bustling shopping mall makes it an easy stop when you’re out for a week of retail therapy along Orchard Road.
Perfect choice for: Budget-conscious diners and shoppers needing a quick, comforting meal near Somerset MRT station.
May not suit you if: You prefer ultra-rich broths or thin, snappy noodles.
Local recommendation: Add a spoonful of their spicy miso paste to customize the broth’s depth.
6. Ramen Soshiji: Late-Night Ramen for the Night Owls Near Orchard Road
Nearest MRT: Somerset MRT (6-min walk)
Price Range: (SGD 18–28 per person)
Finding quality food after midnight near Orchard Road is tough, which is why Ramen Soshiji is a gem. Open until 4:00 am inside Orchard Plaza, it serves a bold Tonkotsu Ramen ($18.00) that’s perfect after a night out.
The thick, savory broth and cramped, smoky izakaya vibe make it a true late-night indulgence. The seating is tight, but the atmosphere is authentic and lively.
Perfect choice for: Nightlife diners and late-night ramen lovers craving a heavy, restorative meal.
May not suit you if: You dislike crowded spaces or are dining with young children.
Local recommendation: Pair your ramen with a cold, carbonated highball to cut through the richness.
7. Ramen Keisuke Tonkotsu King Four Seasons: Seasonal Flavours and Free Extras
Nearest MRT: Bugis MRT (7-min train ride from Somerset)
Price Range: (SGD 13–18 per person)
A short train ride from Somerset, Keisuke Tonkotsu King is known for unbeatable value and seasonal broths. Their Black Spicy Tonkotsu ($15.90) is a winter menu highlight, rich with spices and dark garlic oil.
Every table comes with free-flow marinated bean sprouts and hard-boiled eggs—a crowd favourite among students and budget diners. The platform-like setup allows quick ordering and easy sharing, making it a popular spot on weekends.
Perfect choice for: Hungry diners who love loading up on extra toppings.
May not suit you if: You’re in a rush during peak hours; queues can be long.
Local recommendation: Don’t miss the refillable seasoned eggs—they’re a perfect pairing.
8. Hakata Ikkousha Ramen: Authentic Hakata-Style Ramen Near Orchard Road
Nearest MRT: City Hall MRT (5-min train ride from Somerset)
Price Range: (SGD 18–28 per person)
Located near CHIJMES, Ikkousha serves authentic Hakata-style ramen with a thick, frothy tonkotsu broth. Their God Fire Ramen ($19.50) is spicy and rich, perfect for hardcore pork broth lovers.
The thin noodles soak up the broth well, and the chashu balances the heat. It’s pricier than some options but unmatched in authenticity.
Perfect choice for: Tonkotsu purists seeking bold, rich pork flavours.
May not suit you if: You prefer lighter soups or watch your fat intake.
Local recommendation: Order noodles “barikata” (extra firm) for the best texture.
9. Marutama Ramen (The Central): Creamy Chicken Broth for a Light Meal
Nearest MRT: Clarke Quay MRT (5-min train ride from Somerset)
Price Range: (SGD 15–24 per person)
Marutama is my favorite when craving creamy soup without pork. Their Tamago Ramen ($15.00) features an MSG-free chicken broth that’s milky, flavorful, and clean on the palate.
The noodles have a subtle sweetness from aromatic flour, making it a satisfying yet light meal. The space is small, so expect a wait during lunch rush.
Perfect choice for: Diners wanting creamy broth without heaviness.
May not suit you if: You prefer thick, curly noodles or salty, aggressive flavours.
Local recommendation: Order the “Zenbu” ramen to enjoy all available toppings in one bowl.
Ramen in Somerset offers a diversity of flavours and dining options within walking distance of Somerset MRT station and Orchard Road. Whether you seek the fragrant truffle notes at Tsuta, the hearty rice bowls and yakitori at Ippudo, or the late-night comfort of Soshiji, there’s a perfect bowl to match your taste. For foodies eager to explore, I encourage you to read more about each place and check opening hours on their websites for the latest information, especially since some outlets close on Monday. Enjoy your ramen journey through this vibrant food platform, where you can choose your favourite dish and soak up the local atmosphere alongside your shopping adventures and cultural explorations in the area.
