Introduction to Ramen in Chicago and Suburbs
Yelp released a new list of the top 100 ramen shops in the U.S. for 2025 and six Chicago-area spots made the cut — with both the city and suburbs represented on the list.
The popular restaurant review site said the "all-time" list came as the ramen restaurant business continues to grow, with some of the top spots coming from big cities to small Midwest towns.
"From Los Angeles and New York to small-town Wisconsin, ramen shops have become some of America’s most popular and affordable places to eat, thanks to passionate chefs, creative menus, and a community of noodle-obsessed fans," the ranking states.
Methodology of Ranking
The ranking looked at any business listed under the "ramen" category on Yelp’s website and app, then ranked each spot using data from both the total volume of reviews and the ratings of each review.
Some of the top spots came from small Wisconsin and Indiana towns, but Illinois was well-represented, with four city spots and two suburban eateries named.
Top Ramen Spots in Chicago and Suburbs
The top Illinois location, Rudy’s Ramen in Chicago, made the list at No. 26. The next spot on the list also came from Chicago, with Menya Goku By Ramen Wasabi, ranking at No. 63.
Nomu Ramen and Izakaya in Glenview marked the first suburban spot to rank, coming in at No. 79.
Other spots named were Poke Poke in Chicago at No. 81, Lili Sushi in Carol Stream at No. 93 and lastly Daifuku Ramen in Chicago at No. 95.
The Midwest was well-represented on the list, with a small Wisconsin town eatery among the top-ranked locations.
Representation of the Midwest
Matsumoto Ramen House in Sparta, Wisconsin, ranked at No. 8 and Ramen Alley in Columbus, Indiana, rounded out the top 10.
"In the heart of small-town Wisconsin, Matsumoto Ramen House is serving up bowls that rival anything you’d find in a bigger city," the ranking states. "Founded by Japan-raised sisters Michele Bills and Cecilia Kirkland, the family-run, counter-order spot brings a personal touch to every steaming bowl."
Conclusion
The inclusion of six Chicago-area spots in Yelp’s top 100 ramen shops list is a testament to the growing popularity of ramen in the region. With a mix of city and suburban eateries, there’s something for everyone in the Chicago area.
FAQs
Q: How many Chicago-area spots made it to Yelp’s top 100 ramen shops list?
A: Six Chicago-area spots made it to the list.
Q: What is the top-ranked Illinois location on the list?
A: Rudy’s Ramen in Chicago, ranked at No. 26.
Q: Are there any suburban eateries on the list?
A: Yes, Nomu Ramen and Izakaya in Glenview and Lili Sushi in Carol Stream made it to the list.
Q: What is the ranking methodology used by Yelp?
A: Yelp ranked each spot using data from both the total volume of reviews and the ratings of each review.
