One reviewer noted they're 'not a miso fan, but Strings' is superb.' The broth is even more aromatic than the tonkotsu, and many regulars say the miso is actually their preferred bowl. The noodles are the same quality — thick and chewy.
Tips from diners
Order this if you find tonkotsu too heavy — miso is lighter but no less complex.
Reviewers who've tried ramen across New York, Los Angeles, and Japan describe this as among the best they've had. The noodles are thick, square-cut, and have a firm bite that stands up to the heavy broth. The broth is so rich it coats your mouth, and the chashu pork is tender enough to fall apart with chopsticks.
Tips from diners
Start with tonkotsu if you want to understand why this place is famous — this is what they obsess over.
Seaweed-based stock creates a lighter ramen that's still deeply flavored. The umami comes from the broth construction, not from fat, making this the most approachable bowl for first-timers.
Tips from diners
If tonkotsu intimidates you, shoyu is the entry point — same quality, lighter execution.
Plant-based miso broth built on vegetable stock and fermented ingredients, with mushroom and nori.
Tips from diners
Strings makes this thoughtfully — it's not a stripped-down version, it's a full-flavored bowl in its own right.
Creamy white chicken broth created by emulsifying poultry bones and aromatics.
Tips from diners
The chicken is lighter than tonkotsu, so order this if you're visiting after 10pm.
Strings Ramen opened in 2014 with a sold-out first night, co-owned by chef Matt Nakano who focused entirely on the noodles — their flavor, texture, and bite. The kitchen makes fresh noodles daily using a custom dough mixer and noodle extruder imported directly from Japan. Strings has been consistently voted best ramen in Chicago and top ramen shop in the nation, and stays open late like authentic ramen shops in Japan, New York, and Los Angeles.
Open until 2am Friday and Saturday — this is Chinatown's go-to after-dinner ramen spot.
Sit at the counter to watch the ramen assembly — the speed and precision are part of the show.
Don't feel rushed — ramen is meant to be slurped and savored. Order a beer or sake to pair.
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