Samurai Noodle is probably the best-known ramen shop in Seattle because it has been serving bowls of noodles in its International Distrct shop since 2006. As of this year, it has expanded to the University District, and the owners say they have plans for a third shop, although they wouldn’t divulge the location. The tonkotsu ramen is creamy and rich, the miso ramen has flavorful depth and the tampopo ramen is a tasty soy-sauce ramen with a luxurious array of toppings. When the owners opened their University District shop earlier in 2010, they admitted to being overwhelmed by the demand. Lines formed out the door and down the block. Which just goes to show that the demand for ramen in Seattle is stronger than ever. Samurai has been the trendsetter, but it enjoys the competition. “We need more ramen shops to help educate people about what ramen is,” says one of the owners. We agree.

Tonkotsu ramen takes extra time to make the creamy, rich soup taste just right. Samurai serves one of the best versions in the city.

The tampopo ramen at Samurai Noodle comes in a clear soy-sauce broth, Tokyo style.

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