Food was decently good, service was quick but saki was terrible. It was undrinkable - yet when I told the server she ignored it completely. I always rate a place not only on food but on their customer service. Any decent place would comp the bill and not ignore the customers experience. read more

I love the interior of this restaurant. It definitely gives authentic Japanese vibes. Their ramen comes in a small and large portion size. The veggie ramen that I had was not super flavorful, but it has good toppings. read more

Friends Ramen - Spicy Veggie Ramen - Ramen Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Soup was delicious! Service was just basic and minimal (take your order, bring you your order, bring your check kinda thing). Not much of a welcoming character. I was a little surprised with the $2 charge when we asked for a spoon worth of chili oil to spicy up our soup. Ambiance was nice. Small place with wood everywhere gave it an Authentic feel. read more

See all

Little hole in the spot ramen place and it's honestly my wife and I's favorite ramen spot in Chicago. Their karaage Chicken ramen is incredible! If you like a little bit of spice order this with heat level 3. Also try their mango mochi which is phebomenal. We've been several times and the waitress is super nice. Highly recomend! read more

Sat in by myself and really enjoyed my experience! 100/10 food and good service, definitely recommend coming here and will be back!

It was nearby and I was cold and just wanted ramen. A cute little place. A bit of a hole in the wall, but I kind of liked that. $8 for a small ramen and $16 for a large. The small was really small and large was really large. I wish they'd had an in-between size. It wasn't my favorite ramen by any means, but it was good. My sister absolutely loved hers. She lives in a small farm town and hasn't had ramen in years though. ;) read more

Friends Ramen - Spicy Miso - Ramen Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Ordered the fried tofu buns and spicy veggie ramen. The buns were ok, nothing to write home about. The sauce was good and tofu was crisp but overall was lacking flavor and texture. The spicy ramen was SO SPICY! I guess that's on me that I didn't ask how spicy. I like things spicy but this was too spicy for me, whole mouth and lips were on fire. I couldn't finish it because of how spicy it was. The tofu in the ramen was also kind of bland and seemed like it wasn't prepared beyond just chopping. read more

Friends Ramen - Fried Tofu Buns 2pcs TOGO - Ramen Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Really good food! The tonkotsu broth is really high quality. Staff are very nice, and there's a great ambiance. Music isn't too loud and lights aren't too dark, overall a great experience () read more

Guys and Dolls, this has to be one of the best kept Ramen restaurants in our beautiful city. Situated in the heart and start of downtown (Chicago Ave. & State Street, diagonal from Holy Name Cathedral) is a cozy, yummy, dining experience you won't want to miss! Under $30, ALL YOU CAN EAT!!! amazing service, full bar with Happy hours 11am-4pm, and food of high delicious quality, I guarantee you will leave a happy customer! read more

See all

Yum! We came here randomly towards the end of our trip and to our surprise, this place was great! It's definitely a smaller space, maybe 8 tables max with a bar? The tables and chairs leave barely any room and I'm quite petite). Other than that the food and service was great! My partner opted for the ramen combo set and you can choose either noodle with a side, green salad and pop. He chose to get the spicy miso, Takoyaki and a Diet Coke. They do not give you a cup nor ice and I found it to be quiet gross. It's hot and you're served a some what cold Diet Coke.. I got the niku and the spicy ramen as they were quite small, but both delicious! As we were nearing the end of the meal, I quickly went to the bathroom before leaving. To my surprise, the bathroom was full of writing and I thought it was pretty neat! However, there is a cloth that covers a window but the middle isn't fully closed...overall this was a very positive experience and we will definetly be back! read more

Friends Ramen - Top: Combo with spicy miso ramen, takoyaki, salad and pop Bottom: niku and spicy miso ramen - Ramen Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

We loved this place so much. Stumbled across it. We went a few months back and my kids just asked me the next time we go back to Chicago to please go back to get another bowl of noodles. read more

Friends Ramen - So yummy. Nice find - Ramen Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I traveled to Chicago for a conference and with the cold I was feeling for ramen. I tried almost every vegetarian item on the menu. Everything was très bon. Next Time im in Chicago I will be coming back. read more

Ambience is really cool, reminiscent of japanese bars. Unfortunately I was not so moved by the ramen.. the other dishes were alright, but the ramen was so.. lacking. The noodles weren't chewy, just broke apart and didn't carry enough of the soup, the broth was too light and had an odd sweetness to it, and the pork wasn't as soft as it should be.. read more

See all

Great music! Ok ramen. Make reservations. Skip the kaarage. I've made better chicken nuggets from frozen than their kaarage. Literally left it. read more

Quite possibly the worst ramen I've had in my life. Fooled by the decent review here, we decided to give it a go (we were originally headed to Thai place next door, we should've stuck with the Thai place next door) - ambience was awesome, cozy and we liked the vibe. I wish we could say same about the food, we got their miso ramen and the initial taste was blend with touch of sweet but ended with spicy? It was just not good. Other than the food, service was fine and ambience was cool but I would never go back there. read more

Cute ramen spot! The inside is so cozy and uniquely decorated. We ordered the gyoza buns and on-the-go ramen and loved them both! Their small ramen bowl is great if you get apps before and don't want a huge entree, but if you want a full serving of ramen get the large size. Overall I'd definitely return just for the fun vibes! read more

Small ramen portion was perfect size! I also really liked that the noodles were thinner than the typical ramen noodle. Cocktails were delicious as well and had a cozy ambiance - very small place but on a winter weekday evening it was busy, but not packed. Service was decent, music was 2010's hip hop and indie so, interesting vibe LOL I would go back again for the ramen read more

Friends Ramen - Veggie Ramen Small, Yuzu Cocktail - Ramen Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This place is so deceiving with their prices online, you would think, "wow I got such a great deal on some cheap ramen" then you get it and it's an appetizer of a meal. The food was mid at best, just my trust was broken when the food arrived, nothing could beat the disappointment I felt. The place itself was nice, like walking into a Japanese bar/shrine with all the signs pinned up. Service is nothing special, just what it should be. read more

Stopped in this cute little spot for a quick lunch. Love that they offer small ramen portions. It was perfect. We started with steamed shrimp shumai- which was served a little different from the norm - in a bowl with shredded greens and a little soy mixture. It was good. We went with spicy miso veggie and spicy chicken ramen. Both were very good. Seating is limited-staff was friendly- they serve alcohol- great music and a cool vibe. read more

Friends Ramen - Chicken Karaage Ramen Small - Ramen Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Good option for ramen in downtown! Been here several times and I enjoyed the food each time. Their small size ramen is a bit small, but it's called small for a reason. It's $8 which isn't too bad but I feel like you can get more for your money at other ramen spots downtown! I've tried the Spicy Shrimp Ramen and the Spicy Miso Ramen and they were pretty good! Good amount of spice. I've also tried their Tofu & Rice Bowl, which I didn't like as much as their ramen. I thought it lacked some flavor and I requested some chili oil on the side so that helped it taste a bit better! Tried the Mai Tai and that was good. Good strength! And presentation was nice also! The restaurant has a nice ambience with some nice decorations. It's just a bit small and they have very limited seating. I went with a group of 6 once and we had to split up to dine in since their tables really can't accommodate more than 4 people (and only 4 if 2 people are squeezing next to each other on one side of the table). I'd still say it's a decent option for ramen! read more

See all

BEST RAMEN SPOT EVER. literally the ramen is so good every single time the kimchi is always AHMAZING i live in wisconsin but id come here every single day if i could! i stop by once a months because its just so good. the energy is always there the atmosphere is always amazing the food is always fast! read more

Got to say I love that they have bowl sizes from small to large. Made me portion control for sure however the small I feel is a little too small. A medium option would have been perfect!! But hands down good ramen I did want more!!! I don't do spicy so I like that they had non spicy options that were not sweet soo bonus point for that!! For starters we had the edamame and Karaage chicken. Karaage chicken I would skip as it tasted chewy, old and as though it was just rewarded in a microwave. read more

See all

We were greeted with warm and welcoming smiles. We sat ourselves and felt comfortable. I loved the wall of notes and the wooden tables and chairs. We had 1 combo and 1 small ramen. Perfect for a light dinner for two. My husband got the small Niku ramen with shrimp tempura and garden salad. The dressing on the salad was great and full of flavour. Wasabi soya sauce and I don't know what else. But they need to bottle and sell that dressing! Or send me the recipe. He felt the Niku needed some spice. As it was a little bland I had the karaage chicken ramen. Lots of flavour,. I did add the left overs dressing to spice it up a little. Cost was so reasonable if you are on a budget. Would come back. read more

Friends Ramen - Beef ramen, shrimp tempura & garden salad - Ramen Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Just moved to Chicago about a month ago and Friends Ramen has quickly become a regular spot. Great service, cool atmosphere that makes you feel like you're in a local spot in Japan, and quality food at a reasonable price. Highly recommend checking it out! read more

Friends Ramen - Shrimp Shumai - Ramen Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

Such great food and service! Love the authentic Japanese style of the restaurant and the food was amazing. read more

See all

small and cute ramen place in river north with great service. i ordered the fried tofu baos and spicy miso veggie ramen. the baos were great and superrr soft though the tofu could've used a little more flavor. the ramen was solid too-- it contained rice noodles instead of traditional ramen which was an interesting twist. the broth was solid and fragrant, but could have been more flavorful. overall, the prices weren't too bad either especially for the river north area. read more

Friends Ramen - Fried Tofu Bun (2pcs) - Ramen Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

Honestly, my wife and I just popped in to Friends Ramen because it's right next to our hotel. But this is a great little place. You'll likely see review after review saying CUTE RESTAURANT, and that's only because it is. They're clearly going for the cute little ramen shop aesthetic, and I'd say they nailed it. Not a ramen expert but the broth and ingredients both seemed really pleasant. Waitstaff was quick and helpful. If you're already in the area it's worth a visit. I've posted a few supporting photos for your consideration. read more

See all

Wonderful taste treats. Tan tan ramen. Chicken Kerage chicken ramen. Seaweed salad. Shrimp steamed shrimp buns. Great dinner choice read more

See all

Cute little ramen shop that is perfect for single diners. If you have a party of 3 or more, make a reservation. Not a place for big parties. They do two different size portions of ramen as well as a set for $22. The set comes with a small ramen, side, salad, and a drink. If you get the set and order hot tea, don't get a refill like because they charge you another $3. The set may look small at first but it is filling. The side was quite generous as well. Small ramen $18 Large $16 The only down side was that I came here thinking the noodles would be thick and chewy like others had posted but they actually serve thin noodles. They don't hold the broth flavor well. I got the spicy miso and it was mild and not as deep in flavor. Although it wasn't what I expected, I'm down to try the other broths next time. Overall it's good for the price! read more

Friends Ramen - $22 set - Ramen Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

My husband and I have fallen in love... with Friends Ramen. We were downtown for the day and didn't want to catch lunch at the typical touristy trap. I turned to Yelp for help and saw this delightful little ramen shop. And yes, it is extremely little... the booths can barely fit 4 people. And there are maybe 6 booths total. But while Friends Ramen may be small, the dishes are BIG on taste. We started with the pulled pork buns. Oh. My. Goodness! Could have eaten multiple orders. We ordered a couple of the ramen. The big bowl is as big as your head. The little bowl - I would recommend ordering 2 if you're hungry. I had the seafood ramen while my husband had the fried chicken ramen... they said it was spicy but maybe that's by Midwest standards? Either way, we absolutely fell in love with Friends Ramen. Wish we lived downtown... we would be there every week!!! read more

See all

This is great! Thick chunks of cooked pork, sweet sautéed corn, spicy miso broth and a gooey egg to wrap up in ramen noodles. The place looked like an authentic rustic Japanese house and would have been enjoyable but I had to take mine to go this time. I would have given the fifth star but they didn't honor the 10% off coupon I got for my yelp check-in. read more

Friends Ramen - Spicy Miso Ramen Large - Ramen Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I ordered the Tan Tan ramen and chicken kaarage appetizer. Satisfied my ramen craving. Would come back if I was in the area. Broth was light and slightly sweet. Noodles were round, similar to spaghetti. Soft texture. Egg was simple soft boiled. Pork belly Chicken was lightly breaded and had a mayo sauce over it. Good flavor. read more

For a small sport, their food sure is tasty! The space is small, the tables and restaurant are cozy! It feels like the family built everything with lots of love! We shared the edamame and Karaage Chicken. Both were delicious. The Tan Tan Men ramen has a really nice broth. The egg was perfectly cooked and the noodles just the right amount! You tell everything is homemade! read more

I'd avoid this place as a vegetarian. The ramen had absolutely no taste and broth may have well just been water. Typically ramen tofu I've had is prepared, but nothing more than taking the tofu out the box and cutting into rectangles was done. The ambiance of the place was pretty nice though. read more

Friends Ramen - Veggie Ramen Large - Ramen Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I love Friends Ramen! It is super tasty and very reasonably priced. This is a very small restaurant--only a few tables and you are packed pretty tight in there. However, their tasty ramen (I got the veggie) is so so good! They have a cool wall where you can write your wishes too for good luck. Not sure what else to say because this is a straightforward, yummy restaurant. They do accept reservations, which I recommend since it is so small. Also, the bathroom is in the back and kind of tricky to find. read more

Friendly and attentive service. We started with the shrimp shumai, and it was terrific. We could've ordered two. At first, I got the 'Tan Tan Men' ramen, but surprisingly it was spicy for me to eat, so I got my partner 'On The Go' instead. We were both amazed by the broth. It's so rich and creamy. Noodles had good textures; the pickled ginger, corn, and some bamboo shoots were great add-ons. The ramen also had pork belly, just a personal preference, but it would be better if the meat were cut thinner. Anyway, I'm glad we got to visit this place; this was one of the restaurants we kept talking about during our trip. read more

This restaurant doesn't look like much when you walk by, and it is not eye catching when you walk in either! However, the ramen here was really good! The restaurant itself is a little small. I would not recommend this to any group larger than 4. I feel like even 4 people would be too large of a group because the tables are tiny and cannot be placed together to accommodate. The Spicy Veggie Ramen was very flavorful. I ordered a small order of the ramen and the small order of the Chicken Karaage. Both of them were super tiny, and I wouldn't recommend you ordering the small size if you are hungry! read more

Stopped in on probably the coldest night of 2020 to date. We took our daughter and her friends downtown to check out the Sbux Reserve and we were looking forward to a hot bowl of ramen to warm up. We used the waitlist system via Yelp and the process was pretty smooth. Upon arrival I let the server know we were here and I guess it didn't really matter that I was on the waitlist. You pretty much wait in the tiny corridor to be seated first come first serve. We only waited about 10 minutes so that wasn't bad at all. The space is small with about 7 tables and then counter seating by the kitchen. Our server was pretty prompt and took our order right away. We'd hated a few apps and had a few different types of ramen. The shrimp tempura was my favorite appetizer. It was tasty and I guess the word I'm looking for is fluffy. The crab shumai was OK. Steamed and pretty small. The takoyaki was OK too. I had a small bowl of the seafood ramen. Luckily, I wasn't that hungry because that bowl was teeny tiny! It came with one shrimp and a few pieces of crab. The noodles were thick and reminded me of bun bo hue noodles. The broth was creamy. Hubby got the fried chicken ramen. I liked his broth over mine as it had more of a buttery flavor. Our daughter got the on the run ramen and she liked it. The broth was creamy as well. Overall, the ramen hit the spot. The food was good but hubby and daughter did comment that the egg was just hard boiled and they're used to a soft boiled egg in ramen. read more

See all

We were so happy to find this little gem of a restaurant! My kid has just recently fallen in love with ramen, so she was pumped to try the real deal. Cool decor with something noteworthy to look at on every wall. The staff was extremely helpful with ordering and brought out chopstick helpers for both kids. They were so excited to order just straight noodles and broth and ate every bite of it. My husband had the spicy miso ramen and said it was absolutely delicious. My On the Go ramen was also delicious -- the pork was so tender and tasty. We will absolutely be visiting again during our next trip! read more

Friends Ramen - On the Go Ramen - Ramen Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

Stumbled upon here right next to our hotel and it was such a great surprise! I love how they have "mini" portions so you can try a little bit of everything. You can make reservations here but can also walk in. We walked in and luckily got sat within a few minutes. 5/5 - Shrimp tempura 5/5 - Ebi katsu 5/5 - chicken karaage; love the sauce they sprinkle on top! 5/5 - Tan tan men ramen 3/5 - chicken karaage ramen; chicken karaage shouldn't go together with ramen read more

See all