It’s no doubt one of the most fun things to do on vacation is try local restaurants and regional dishes. In Kauai, one of the most highly recommended options is bowls of delicious ramen. Filled with rich broth, soft noodles, and all kinds of fresh vegetables and proteins, the variations of this traditional Japanese dish are limitless.
If you’re looking to dig into the local food scene when you visit, check out our guide to the best ramen in Kauai and see how many different varieties you can try while you’re here!
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What is Ramen?
If all you know of ramen is the microwaveable packets, you’re in for a treat when you get a hold of the real stuff. This savory soup consists of five primary elements: noodles, tare, broth, toppings, and aroma oil. Born out of necessity, ramen is a humble meal that developed in impoverished communities and grew to become one of the most popular dishes in the world.
Traditional Chinese-style wheat noodles are added to bone broth, typically flavored with soy or miso, and then popular toppings such as pork, nori, mushrooms, green onion, bok choy, or tofu are combined with sesame or other oils to create a symphony of flavors full of umami.
What Are the Different Kinds of Ramen?
There are five main types of ramen:
Shoyu – The original Japanese ramen, this simple recipe combines chicken bone broth, noodles, and soy sauce.
Tonkotsu – The base is a rich pork bone broth cooked until the bone turns the liquid white and creamy. Thin noodles balance this thicker soup.
Miso Ramen—A Northern Japanese recipe, miso ramen is very thick thanks to the high fat content of the broth. Typically made from pork, it's also sometimes mixed with chicken broth. Thick, aged noodles are added, resulting in a chewier texture.
Tsukemen – This dish has only been around since the 1950s and comes from Tokyo and is similar to soba in that the noodles are served separately from the broth.
Mazemen—This is the thickest type of ramen. With little to no broth, the sauce is made of liquid seasoning and aroma oil, with toppings added for the finishing touch.
Easy Ramen Recipe
In addition to trying local restaurants, which we’ll get to in just a second, if you want a fun experience during your stay, why not visit our local produce stands and farmers markets for fresh ingredients and then prepare a delicious ramen right in your Suite Paradise vacation rental?!
Here’s all you need:
- Noodles from any ramen packet
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Bone Broth: Chicken or Pork
- Your favorite mushrooms
- Veggies like baby bok choy
- One egg
- Chili oil or sesame oil
Instructions
- Step 1: stir-fry your garlic and ginger
- Step 2: bring your broth to a boil
- Step 3: Cook your noodles in the broth for maximum flavor
- Step 4: Thinly slice your vegetables and add them to the pot
- Step 5: Add your toppings, and you’re all set!
Pro Tip: start a separate pot for your egg. A perfect soft-boiled center should take about six and a half minutes.
Serve up your delicious creations and enjoy as you watch the waves crash outside your Poipu vacation rental.
Best Ramen in Kauai
There’s no shortage of ramen spots in Kauai, and several are right here in Poipu. Here are some of our favorites:
Hapa Kauai Ramen & Whiskey
Enjoy dinner with a view when you visit Hapa Kauai, one of the best ramen restaurants in Poipu. Started by husband and wife duo Sarah and Michael Littman, their journey has taken them from Oahu to Portland, Oregon, and finally back home, but this time to Kauai! With a dedication to creating a warm and welcoming environment, their menu is equal parts exceptional cocktails and unforgettable ramen dishes.
- Location: 2829 Ala Kalanikaumaka Road – Upstairs in the Shops at Kukuiula
- Hours: Monday – Saturday: 4:30 PM – 9 PM, Closed Sunday
- Our Pick: Pork Belly appetizer followed by the Hapa G-Special Ramen paired with a cold draft sake
Kimama Ramen
This cozy hideaway focuses on serving the best traditional Japanese ramen in Kauai. Located in the back of Koloa Village shopping center, Kimama Ramen is a great spot to visit while you’re out on the town.
- Location: Koloa Village 2nd floor - 5460 Koloa Road
- Hours: Monday – Saturday: 12 PM – 2:30 PM and 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM, Closed Sunday
- Our Pick: Chicken Curry Udon with a ramen boiled egg and an order of gyoza
Aloha Ramen
In a sea of chain restaurants and national brands at the Kukui Grove Center, Aloha Ramen stands as a beacon of originality. Though new to the area, they’re quickly gaining notoriety as some of the best ramen in Kauai.
- Location: 3-2600 Kaumualii Hwy
- Hours: Every day 10 AM – 8 PM
- Our Pick: Miso Ramen and chicken katsu
Book Your Foodie Getaway to Kauai
Whether you’re whipping up delicious bowls of ramen in your Poipu vacation rental or visiting these exceptional restaurants, there’s no shortage of ways to try the best ramen in Kauai while you’re here. As you plan your perfect island getaway, be sure to browse our available properties and book your trip directly with Suite Paradise.
From oceanfront condos to private homes, we have something to suit every guest’s needs. Check out our complete inventory and book your Kauai vacation directly today!