Warm Winter Ramen in Chicago – Ramen Wasabi 🍜

As Chicago’s chilly winds blow as usual, I passed by this little shop, drawn in by its rich, savory aroma. Stepping inside, I imagined a bowl of ramen—sipping the fragrant bone broth, slurping the noodles, swallowing them with a bit of soup, the scent rising from mouth to nose… enjoying the happiness and satisfaction that only ramen can bring. At Wasabi, the wooden, minimalist-style bar and cozy booths feel warm and natural. Japanese anime music plays on loop, inviting guests to relax and chat freely. 🎵✨ A highlight here is their Japanese whiskey collection. Unlike Scotch, Japanese whiskey is like an exquisite kaiseki meal—delicate, refined, with layers of flavor to savor. 🥃 They offer not only the world’s best blended whiskey, Taketsuru, but also the world’s best single malt, Hakushu. Plus, famous Suntory labels like Hibiki and Yamazaki. The aromatic, complex profiles suit Eastern palates perfectly. Founded in 2010, this Japanese restaurant has remained a “hidden gem” for both locals and visitors. It’s also one of the few spots in Chicago offering a blend of traditional and modern Japanese dining experiences. Wasabi meets all expectations—and still surprises. Wasabi’s signature is their ramen. The key lies in the broth, which they claim is simmered for 45 hours using 100% certified Kurobuta pork bones and other ingredients. The tonkotsu broth is indeed rich and savory, elevated with a few drops of black garlic oil—well deserving of its top ranking in Chicago. 🏆 🍜 Original Tonkotsu Choose your broth style: classic tonkotsu, kakuni (braised pork belly) ramen, or spicy ramen. The kakuni outshines the chashu—if you want to fully appreciate Wasabi’s broth, go for the pure tonkotsu. Adding kakuni is perfect if you find plain chashu boring. 🍣 Sashimi Carpaccio A must-try: sushi rice lightly seasoned with vinegar, topped with fresh salmon, avocado, vegetables, or egg. Fresh, flavorful, and beloved by diners. 🍗 Fried Chicken Karaage Irresistibly aromatic and crispy outside, tender and juicy inside. Coated in a savory sauce that bursts in your mouth. The freshness, balanced seasoning, and perfect frying make it a winner. #ChicagoRamen #RamenWasabi #JapaneseWhiskey #ChicagoEats #WinterComfortFood