Nine ramen restaurants in California have earned recognition in Yelp’s Top 100 Ramen Shops in America for 2025, highlighting the state’s growing enthusiasm for Japanese cuisine. Notably, a ramen shop located in the San Fernando Valley has been awarded the top spot, demonstrating the diversity and richness of the dining landscape in Los Angeles.
Yelp compiled this list by analyzing ramen listings across the country, focusing on factors such as review volume, positive ratings, and adherence to health standards. The overall winner for 2025 is Bincho, situated in the Tarzana neighborhood of Los Angeles. This establishment is celebrated for its exceptional broths and thoughtfully crafted toppings.
Diners frequently rave about the Bincho Tonkotsu, which features a pork broth created by chef-owner Toshiro Tagami. Patrons describe this dish as “rich, creamy, and full of flavor,” complemented by custom-cut noodles that are designed to absorb the broth perfectly. The dish is topped with tender chashu pork, wood ear mushrooms, and fresh green onions.
Another highlight on the menu is the Yuzu Chicken Ramen. This dish stands out with a citrus-infused chicken broth that builds heat gradually, offering a refreshing finish. Tagami explains that the flavor is derived from jidori chicken—often referred to as the “wagyu of chicken”—and yuzu sourced from Japan. The chicken breast is also infused with yuzu, enhancing the dish’s unique profile.
Fans of Bincho also highly recommend the handmade gyoza, which are described as “crispy on the outside and reminiscent of soup dumplings on the inside.” Reviewers consistently highlight the meticulous sourcing and craftsmanship that go into each menu item. One Yelp reviewer stated, “Bincho Ramen is ‘Iron Chef’–level Japanese ramen! Everything here is flawless, from broth to noodles to toppings. Their standout, in my opinion, is the pork ramen.”
California’s ramen scene is thriving, with additional restaurants making the Top 100 list. While Bincho leads the pack, eight other ramen spots across the state have been recognized for their outstanding offerings. This accolade not only underscores the popularity of Japanese cuisine but also reflects the culinary innovation present in California’s diverse food culture.
As dining preferences continue to evolve, the recognition from Yelp serves as a testament to the hard work and dedication of chefs and restaurateurs in Los Angeles and beyond. The city’s appetite for quality ramen reflects a broader trend of increasing interest in authentic international cuisines, marking an exciting time for food lovers in the area.
