The 5 Phoenix Metro ramen shops you need to know
Where to warm up with a bowl of Phoenix’s best ramen this winter.
Lauren Topor
December 5, 2023
There’s a chill in the air this time of year. Sure, it isn’t as brisk as some other parts of the country; we’re looking at you, Midwest. But these cooler wintertime temps bring cravings for something that’s equal parts warm and delicious — and nothing is more satisfying than ramen. Here’s where to treat your taste buds to some of the city’s best bowls.
SoSoBa
Like the original flagship Flagstaff location, Downtown Phoenix’s SoSoBa offers a robust lineup of craveable ramen built with an unmatched selection of broths and unique add-ins. Whether you’re into udon noodles swimming in pork broth between bits of carnitas and pork bacon, or if rice noodles and bulgogi grilled beef are more to your liking, SoSoBa has exactly what you’re seeking when it comes to steamy bowls of comfort food. The ramen is certainly why you’re here, but don’t skip appetizers like the confit chicken wings or the pork gyoza with house-made drunken sauce on the side.
Hachi Ramen
This Tempe spot knows ramen. The authentic Japanese ramen joint makes everything from scratch, and they don’t cut any corners. For example, Hachi Ramen’s tonkotsu broth is made from 30 unique ingredients which simmer in a giant pot for up to 16 hours. The dedication to the craft is truly unlike any other here. When it’s finally ready after bubbling to perfection, Hachi’s tonkotsu ramen is finished with a tasty slab of braised pork belly, a seasoned egg, and green onions. Hachi Ramen has an ultra-casual vibe, and the best seats in the house are cozied up to the open kitchen, where you can watch the ramen technicians execute noodle pulls and sprinkle nori on bowls of piping-hot soups.
Clever Ramen
Clever Ramen might be the little sister to Clever Koi and Across the Pond, but the Scottsdale ramen restaurant doesn’t hold punches when it comes to bold flavors and quality ingredients. Billed as a build-your-own ramen shop, Clever Ramen offers near-limitless customization that has ramen fans coming back over and over again. First, you choose from ramen-style, vegan, or gluten-free noodles. Then, pick from pork, chicken miso, spicy chicken shoyu, or creamy vegan dashi broth. Next, select your proteins, veggies, and extras like crispy shallots or Clever’s spicy bomb. If the whole build-you-own thing is too much, opt for a pre-made bowl. The spicy kimchi ramen with spicy chicken shoyu, confit chicken thigh, and a soft egg is an excellent introduction to what Clever is all about on your first visit.
Tampopo Ramen
Look no further than Tampopo Ramen in Tempe for dinner and a show. Here, you can watch as your ramen is prepared to perfection by a fast-working kitchen crew that moves harmoniously around oversized pots of steamy broth and bundles of freshly prepared noodles. Fortune favors the bold, so go for the ultra-spicy ramen if you’ve got the chops for it. This figuratively and literally hot bowl of ramen features Tampopo’s original broth, house hot sauce, chili oil, roasted pork, and other tasty noshes like seaweed, white onion, bean sprouts, a soft-boiled egg, scallions, and a sprinkling of sesame. After you set your mouth ablaze, you’ll need something to beat the heat. Reach for melon cream soda or an order of matcha ice cream for some sweet relief.
Nishikawa Ramen
Nishikawa Ramen’s most popular dishes are curry ramen, miso ramen, and black ramen, a medley of pork broth, black garlic oil, and other tasty toppings. Located near the Camelback East neighborhood in Phoenix, Nishikawa has gained local favor for its authentic Japanese ramen, which features signature Hakata and Sapporo-style noodles. In addition to satisfying bowls of ramen, this noodle bar offers a selection of unmissable Japanese-style tapas and appetizers, including pan-fried pork gyoza, deep-fried chicken karaage, spring rolls, and takoyaki, a grilled pancake formed into the shape of a ball with octopus in the center. Do your best to save room for desserts like the yuzu or green tea cheesecakes; you’ll be glad you did.
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Nearby Cortland Locations
Nearby Cortland Locations
Experience holiday magic at these 7 DFW restaurants and bars
It’s impossible not to feel charmed at these destinations that go all out for the holidays.
The holiday season is all about making memories, and what better way to do that than by visiting restaurants and bars that have truly embraced the holiday magic? These bars and restaurants in the DFW area offer a range of experiences, from holiday-themed cocktails to festive desserts, and winter wonderlands that will leave you feeling merry and bright. So, gather your loved ones and enjoy this special time of year at these delightful spots.
Whiskey Ranch
2601 Whiskey Ranch Rd. Fort Worth, TX 76119
If you’re in the mood for holiday-themed fun, look no further than TX Whiskey at Whiskey Ranch. The distillery and venue space host multiple events to kick off the holiday season. Enjoy cozy movie nights under the stars with special screenings of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (Friday, Dec. 15) and Elf (Saturday, Dec. 16).
Those who prefer to get spirited with, well, spirits won’t want to miss the special holiday edition cocktail class led by TX Whiskey’s resident mixologist Jason Shelly. Learn how to impress your guests this year with tips and tricks to make the perfect cocktail.
Leela’s Wine Bar
1914 Greenville Ave, Dallas, TX 75206
Step into a winter wonderland at Leela’s Wine Bar in Lower Greenville. Its “holiday house” pop-up offers a cozy atmosphere to escape holiday chaos and celebrate with loved ones. Get ready for some Instagram-worthy holiday candids as you enjoy specialty pop-up cocktails like the Ornamint, which includes strawberry and hibiscus infused gin, Italicus, strawberry, lemon, and tonic; or the Polar Espresso, with espresso-infused vodka, Mr. Black, Frangelico, cream, and cinnamon.
The Grapevine Bar
2213 Butler St, Dallas, TX 75235
Looking for a unique holiday experience? (Or to hide from your family this holiday season?) Head to The Grapevine Bar, where the drinks are stiff, and the atmosphere is always festive. This quirky spot may have moved locations, but it kept the same charm that earned it fans for years. Enjoy the relaxed patio, pool tables, and some of the jolliest regulars in Dallas. With friendly staff, delicious drinks, and colorful lights, it feels like a year-round gift.
Campo Verde
2918 W Pioneer Pkwy Arlington, TX 76013
This beloved Mexican food restaurant in Arlington is internet-famous for its festive holiday decorations. Upon entering, you will be dazzled by the overabundance of lights, tinsel, snowflakes, miniature Santa Claus figurines, Christmas trees, and more. This year, there’s even a Disney-inspired ice palace. Make your experience extra merry with house-made salsa verde and a sangria swirl margarita.
Mercat Bistro
2501 N Harwood St., Suite 225 Harwood, Dallas, TX 75201
The Harwood District restaurant undergoes a magical transformation during the holiday season, turning into a winter wonderland for all the senses. You can enjoy a one-of-a-kind dining experience surrounded by dancing polar bears (not real ones, of course). Reserve the Polar Bear Table for a two-hour dining experience that is sure to become one of your cherished holiday traditions. Reservations are available from Nov. 20 to Jan. 5.
Rise
Address: 5360 W Lovers Ln, Suite 220. Dallas, TX 75209
Inwood Village’s Rise is a cozy and magical spot year-round, but it’s especially enchanting during the holidays – perfect for celebrating with loved ones. The twinkling decor and classic French menu make Rise a truly intimate experience this season and throughout the year. Indulge in Rise’s infamous marshmallow soup and savor a warm and comforting souffle.
Tiff’s Treats
Multiple DFW Locations
If you are unable to make it out this year, you can create your own holiday magic at home. What better way to do this than by gifting yourself (or those you love) freshly baked cookies?
Tiff’s Treats, the experts in cookie delivery, have got you covered with a range of seasonal sweets that are perfect for the occasion. Each year, you’ll find specialty cookies, festive packaging, and even the opportunity to send Kendra Scott jewelry as an extra-sweet surprise.
For those with kids, ordering a pack to leave out for Santa Claus on Christmas Eve is the surest way to make a family memory without ever having to leave home.
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Nearby Cortland Locations
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5 activities in Phoenix that are perfect for first dates
Wanting to impress a date? Here’s where to take them around town.
First dates are inherently stressful. A good first date — a really good first date — depends on several variables: exploring common interests, making each other laugh, and finding some time to simply get to know each other (so skip the bass-thumping clubs and crowded cocktail bars at first). We know that planning that perfect first date can be nerve-wracking, so we’ve rounded up some of the best activities that Phoenix offers, from tried-and-true attractions to irresistible icebreakers guaranteed to keep you entertained — and wanting a second.
Competitive spirit
Who said a first date has to be a basic dinner and drinks? Axe-throwing is sure to remove any awkwardness that often comes with a first date. At LumberjAxes, you can show off your strength and aim — or laugh about your lack thereof. Located inside Tempe Marketplace, the sporting venue includes a restaurant by celebrity chef Matt Hearn and a craft cocktail bar — everything you need for the perfect night out. Of course, there’s no better way to find out if you’re compatible with someone than by working together to solve a mystery. Escapology’s immersive escape rooms, with locations in Tempe and Gilbert, put your communication skills to the test by encouraging you to find creative solutions to problems. Choose from themes such as the Indiana Jones-inspired Lost City, the “Knives Out”-reminiscent Mansion Murder, or the cartoon caper, Scooby-Doo, and the Spooky Castle Adventure, among others. More fun and games — literally — can be found at Level 1 Arcade Bar, a retro arcade bar with two locations in the East Valley; Snakes & Lattes, a game board bar and cafe; and Puttshack, a miniature golf experience. All offer a variety of fun activities that will bring out your competitive spirit, as well as food and beverages. Get to know each other over dinner and drinks before challenging each other to a rousing game of Centipede, Battleship, or beer pong, respectively.
Walk through time
Greater Phoenix has grown tremendously in the past few years, but exploring its past is always fun. Newcomers will delight in learning about the region’s unique history, while native Arizonans can play tourists in their hometown. Taliesin West, the winter home of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright, ticks several great first-date boxes with its stunning mountain views, groundbreaking architecture, and plenty of quiet spots for conservation. While this modernist masterpiece is one of the most popular attractions in the Valley, there are several other historically significant buildings that even the most die-hard Phoenicians have never visited. Wrigley Mansion, built by chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr., is a stunning Santa Barbara-style landmark that sits high on a hill overlooking the city. Take a docent-led tour, and if you’re feeling especially romantic and wanting to impress, dine at the upscale — and pricey — Christopher’s at Wrigley Mansion. The Rosson House Museum and Heritage Square is a reminder of the city’s Victorian past. Spend a few hours touring the 1895 home and surrounding structures before heading next door for a bite at the world-famous Pizzeria Bianco.
“Ameowzing” afternoon
Nothing breaks down defenses more than cute, cuddly critters, and Phoenix has plenty of “pawsome” attractions that will allow you to get up close and personal with domestic and wild animals. For a casual afternoon get-together, head to the Phoenix Zoo, where you can stroll through the lush gardens while learning about more than 400 species from around the world. Share your love of everything from lions and elephants to endearing sloths as you relax at one of the outdoor cafes. You can even take in local art at the zoo’s two galleries. If you prefer house pets over primates, check out the PHX Cat Cafe, formerly La Gattara. Refresh with coffee or a smoothie while cuddling with some of the cutest cats around. And who knows, you may even bring home a furry friend.
Perfect harmony
Everyone has a special connection to music. Whether it’s rock ’n’ roll, classical, or soul, you’ll find it all at the Musical Instrument Museum. You won’t be at a loss for words as you explore galleries filled with ancient musical artifacts from nearly 200 countries, instruments played by some of history’s greatest artists, and one-of-a-kind pieces designed to spark conversation. Bond over your favorites while enjoying a bite at the onsite cafe, and then finish off the night with a show at the museum’s intimate theater. If your date is into jazz, surprise them with tickets to a show at one of the Valley’s top venues. The Nash in downtown Phoenix is a classic old-school jazz club where you’ll sip drinks at tiny tables for two just feet from the stage. At the same time, the Ravenscroft’s first-class Jazzbird lounge showcases popular local musicians, drinks, and catered meals every Friday evening.
Art-themed dates
Art can elicit a rainbow of emotions, from appreciation to criticism. You’ll likely learn a lot about your date simply by talking about the different pieces you see at these creative attractions. View the works of masters from Europe, Asia, and Latin America at the Phoenix Art Museum. It’s also one of the few museums worldwide with a fashion design collection. Or, browse galleries filled with paintings and sculptures by local artists during Scottsdale ArtWalk, held every Thursday evening. Meander the streets of Old Town while discussing your top pieces. In between, take advantage of some of the city’s best cuisine at area restaurants or sample the local terroir at one of the award-winning tasting rooms. One of the most unique and conversation-worthy art experiences in the Valley is Wonderspaces, located in the Scottsdale Fashion Square Food Court. You’re sure to find shared interests as you stroll through the thought-provoking, interactive, and immersive installations by renowned artists from around the globe.
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