南州ラーメン — Restaurant in Ibusuki

I’ve enjoyed the ramen as I’ve been traveling through Japan the past couple of weeks and this was the best! A perfect place to duck into for hot soup on a rainy night, especially after a sand bath and onsen! The place was full of families but there was a spot at the bar for solo diners, too.

When he saw me attempting to Google translate the ramen ticket box labels, one of the chefs came over to explain their menu in beautiful English. They serve two kinds of broth (a rich pork based broth and a spicy Chinese inspired broth). There are lots of toppings you can add on. I went for the spicy broth with an egg and he offered to tone down the spice for me a little. I probably could have handled a bit more heat, but after the onsen it’s probably better I didn’t attempt the full spice!

The broth was rich and flavorful, the noodles and meat tasty, the egg perfectly cooked. The portions were generous, so I couldn’t finish, but I sure wanted to. It was delicious! Oh, and did I mention it was only about $7 US?!

If you’re lucky enough to be nearby,...

What a spectacular experience. From the first time we went, we were greeted by the staff with a truly cordial welcoming. Questions about the menu were answered and recommendations given. The taste and hospitality DID NOT MISS. Ramen was prepared with such care and confidence, from the Char Sui to the green onion slices, each layer placed with intention and an understanding of plating, palette and taste. The experience was so enjoyable we returned the second night, if only to give the chef our praises. Try this spot if you’re in Ibusuki, and better yet, chat with the chef, you might just appreciate broth and noodles on a deeper level after having a dish made with such love. 5 stars, love from...

Worth the train ride to Kagoshima and to Ibusuki!! This ramen made me cry tears of joy from the sheer passion from the family.

Just a 10 min walk from the station. The ramen was decadent, beautiful, and the ambiance and service spectacular. The chef there spoke English and was so helpful.

The chashu pork was beautifully balanced and slightly sweet. I wish I could have tried the Dandan noodle.

Love to this restaurant from a traveler...