Slurp, Savor, Repeat: Virginia’s Best Noodle Restaurants for National Noodle Month

National Noodle Month might be coming to a close, but some ramen and udon restaurants are far too fabulous to limit to just 31 days. At least, that’s the case here in the Commonwealth. When it comes to the best ramen in Virginia, there are popular chains and tiny hole-in-the-wall joints that warrant monthly, if not weekly, visits. Whether you’re on the hunt for an authentic izakaya with an aesthetic as exceptional as the steaming broth, or a place to pop in when you’re simply looking for a quick, soul-nourishing meal, we’re here to help. Ahead, read up on where to find the best ramen in Virginia. 

The Best Ramen in Virginia

As unlikely as it may seem, Virginia is home to a plethora of fabulous ramen restaurants. While classically associated with comfort food and Southern cuisine, the state (particularly Northern Virginia) boasts a high Asian population, which has ushered in some truly notable dining establishments over the last few years. Take Izakaya Nana in Chantilly, for example. The cult-favorite Japanese pub made a name for itself in Flushing, New York, before opening its second location right here in Virginia in early 2025. Designed to look like a Tokyo alleyway, Izakaya Nana not only showcases a truly stellar menu of craft cocktails, sake, soju, appetizers, soups, sushi, sashimi, and some of the best ramen in Virginia, but it also has Instagrammable decor around every corner.  

Another picture-perfect place to score some of the best ramen in Virginia is Genki Izakaya in Fairfax. The Japandi-style restaurant is outfitted with tables, booths, and a center bar, with Japanese lanterns artfully hung throughout. It’s not just about aesthetics at Genki, though. The popular Japanese eatery touts a truly spectacular menu of yakitori, nigiri, sashimi, and various special rolls. Despite their vast offering, it's their ramen and rice dishes that deserve the most attention. As delicious as the Tonkotsu Ramen, Spicy Miso Ramen, and Yaki Udon are—yes, Genki Izakaya also serves up some of the best udon in Virginia—the tornado omelet fried rice has earned Insta fame with its bold flavor and unique appearance. Whatever you order, wash it all down with one (or a few) of Genki’s superb egg white craft cocktails, Japanese craft beers, or botanical mocktails. 

Where to Find Incredible Ramen in Virginia

While Izakaya Nana and Genki Izakaya are the crème de la crème of ramen and an authentic Japanese aesthetic in NoVA, there are plenty of other places to enjoy great noodle dishes in the state. JINYA Ramen Bar is a popular national chain that specializes in freshly-made in-house noodles and long-simmered authentic tonkotsu pork broth, with locations in Arlington, Fairfax, and Reston. 

Down south, Takara Ramen wows patrons with its unassuming exterior, charming interior, and mouth-watering menu of ramen, rolls, udon, and more. It has locations in Richmond and Midlothian. (Another must-try noodle joint in Richmond, Virginia? The one-and-only Sticky Rice in The Fan.)

If you prefer to dine at standalone establishments, Marumen in Fairfax serves six signature ramen dishes, plus three specialty options, as well as the choice to add extra toppings to your liking. The highly-rated Japanese comfort food eatery also serves sushi, rice dishes, and traditional plates of karaage, dumplings, and other authentic delights. Meanwhile, Matsui Sushi & Ramen in Alexandria is known for delectable ramen and udon dishes, as well as dozens of refreshing rolls. 

Where to Find Ramen On-the-Go in Virginia

No time to sit down and savor some of the state’s best broths and noodles? No worries! The Ramyun.Zip, with locations in Centreville and Richmond, is a one-stop shop for every kind of ramen you can conjure up. The fast food restaurant sells 120 varieties of Korean ramen (ramyun), which can be prepared in-store or stocked up on for a full pantry at home.

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