Top 5 Tonkotsu Ramen Spots in Roppongi, Akasaka, and Azabu

Japan's ramen culture is world-famous, and among the many styles, tonkotsu ramen holds a special place in people's hearts. Originally from Fukuoka in Kyushu, this rich and flavorful ramen style has made its way to Tokyo, where numerous Hakata-style ramen shops continue to delight visitors. Today, we'll focus on the upscale and vibrant areas of Roppongi, Akasaka, and Azabu, highlighting five must-visit spots where you can enjoy authentic tonkotsu ramen.

Roppongi, Akasaka, Azabu & Tonkotsu Ramen

Roppongi, Akasaka, and Azabu are among Tokyo’s most international districts, attracting a mix of tourists, business professionals, and food enthusiasts. From Michelin-starred restaurants to casual food stalls, this area offers a diverse and exciting culinary scene.

Tonkotsu ramen is known for its rich and creamy pork bone broth, paired with thin, straight noodles. Each shop has its own twist—variations in broth consistency, toppings, and preparation methods make every bowl unique. Let’s dive into five exceptional ramen spots that showcase the best of this beloved dish.

1. Hakata Ramen Kazu

Google Maps : https://maps.app.goo.gl/34W4pMWNsRKFbME97

Located in Akasaka, Hakata Ramen Kazu has been a local favorite since its opening in 2014, celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2024. The highlight here is its ultra-thick and frothy tonkotsu broth—incredibly creamy with minimal pork odor, perfectly complementing the thin, straight noodles.

One of the best perks? One free "kaedama" (extra noodles), allowing you to customize your bowl to your liking. The restaurant maintains a calm and cozy atmosphere, letting diners fully appreciate the traditional "yobimodoshi" and "kiritori" cooking techniques used to craft the broth. A variety of table seasonings, including sesame, garlic, and spicy takana, ensures a flavorful experience from start to finish.

2. Hakata Menbo Akanoren Nishi-Azabu

Google Maps : https://maps.app.goo.gl/uwg7SZTByfqnhjZL7

(Source.1:https://www.akanoren.com/)

A true tonkotsu ramen veteran, Hakata Menbo Akanoren in Nishi-Azabu has been serving ramen lovers since 1978, making it one of the longest-standing Hakata-style ramen shops in Tokyo.

The broth strikes a balance between rich and light, a "kotteri" yet "assari" (thick yet refreshing) flavor profile that is easy to enjoy. Their signature “ramen” is a classic, and diners can enhance their meal with toppings like char siu, bamboo shoots, and zha cai (pickled mustard greens). The set menu also includes options like mentaiko rice or takana rice, making it a great spot for a full meal.

Being open late into the night, this shop is also a popular choice for a satisfying post-drinking bowl of ramen.

3. Ganso Kurume Ramen Fukuya

Google Maps : https://maps.app.goo.gl/zbNgjzpodqZaJ6DF9

Tucked away in Azabu-Juban, Fukuya specializes in Kurume-style tonkotsu ramen, considered the origin of tonkotsu ramen. The broth is rich and cloudy, packed with deep pork flavors, and the dish is finished with crispy pork back fat (karikari) for added texture.

A must-try here is their wonton ramen, where the silky dumplings blend beautifully with the thick broth. The menu also features gyoza and char siu plates, with the gyoza being particularly renowned for their juicy, flavorful filling.

4. Kyushu Jangara Ramen Akasaka

Google Maps : https://maps.app.goo.gl/TXz6WuZuwqLzzsSU6

For a retro ramen experience, head to Kyushu Jangara Ramen in Akasaka. Their tonkotsu broth is blended with chicken stock and vegetables, creating a lighter and more approachable flavor that even first-time tonkotsu eaters will enjoy.

One of their standout bowls is "Kobonshyan", inspired by Kumamoto-style ramen with charred garlic oil for a smoky depth. Toppings like mentaiko (spicy cod roe) and kakuni (braised pork belly) allow diners to customize their bowl to their liking.

For those with a big appetite, there’s a large portion noodle option, making it a great choice for hungry ramen lovers.

5. Wakura Roppongi

Google Maps : https://maps.app.goo.gl/RYioDiDWLx56v8GK9

For a chic ramen experience, Wakura in Roppongi offers a sleek, stylish ambiance with counter seating, perfect for solo diners or a quick bite. The broth is meticulously prepared using carefully selected ingredients, resulting in a deep yet refined tonkotsu flavor.

The toppings are fresh and thoughtfully arranged, and the international staff ensures a welcoming experience for foreign visitors. If you're looking for a ramen spot that blends traditional flavors with a modern atmosphere, Wakura is a must-visit.

Final Thoughts

The Roppongi, Akasaka, and Azabu areas are home to some of the best tonkotsu ramen in Tokyo. From the creamy richness of Hakata Ramen NAGOMI, to the long-standing legacy of Hakata Menbo Akaren, to the authentic Kurume flavors at Fukuya, each shop offers something special. Meanwhile, Kyushu Jangara Ramen brings a nostalgic vibe, and Wakura adds a stylish touch to the tonkotsu experience.

If you’re a ramen enthusiast, be sure to check out these incredible spots for a taste of Tokyo’s finest tonkotsu ramen!