Frankie Ramen at Frontier Lounge — Restaurant in Charleston

I don't want to tell you about Frankie Ramen, because it's such a good hidden spot. But I need to. It's too good to keep to myself.

Frankie runs the ramen shop inside Frontier Lounge. Our server was Alex and she was a ray of pure ramen loving sunshine, totally delightful and welcoming. She explained how everything works, showed us the menu and said we could seat ourselves. The bar is organized front to back - First, Frontier Lounge: pool table, bar, booths and a few tables. Second, up the steps, Frankie Ramen kitchen and arcade games. Third, beautiful hidden patio and garden space. Alex told us that they run cocktail classes and events back here! We ordered right at the kitchen, sat at the bar and enjoyed a few drinks, then the food came out and changed our Charleston world. Frankie is a flavor guru, bringing bright and bold flavors to dumplings and ramen bowls. He does the classic OG style miso bowl (this is what I ordered, pictured below with my mocktail), and a very creative and inspired special bowl (my husband's order). Everything was delicious. Dumplings are $1 each, we ordered spicy and regular. It was fantastic. Ramen bowls are right around $18. Worth every single penny. We'll definitely be back, in fact, I might swing by for some dumplings to go on my way to daycare pickup tonight...

Charleston NEEDED this. There is a lot of good food here, but Frankie Ramen SHINES. Thank you for a wonderful night out for this...

Hey everyone! 👋🍜

Guess what?! I just HAVE to share my incredible experience at Frankie Ramen in Charleston! 🤩 It's become my absolute favorite restaurant – seriously, I've been three times already! 🤯

Frankie, the owner, is the sweetest guy ever! 🤗 He's so down-to-earth and makes you feel so welcome, it's amazing! The atmosphere is just fantastic! ✨

And the food? Oh my goodness! 😋 Their dumplings are legendary! 🥟 Seriously, the best dollar dumplings I've EVER had! And the ramen? 🔥 Forget about it! I usually get the spicy ramen, and the flavor is INSANE! 🌶️ It's so rich and flavorful, you'll be completely hooked! 🍜🤤

Last time, I went with my friend. We devoured the Shio Ramen (pork) and, of course, clearly incredibly passionate about his food, and it shows! He told us about his amazing training in Japan perfecting his ramen! 🤯 That dedication is truly inspiring!

It's located inside the Frontier Lounge (Monday-Thursday), which is such a cool and quirky spot! It's a little hidden gem, but totally worth seeking out! 💎 it's an absolute STEAL for such an amazing meal! 💰

Even better news – Frankie is expanding! 🎉 A bigger restaurant is in the works! How exciting is that?! 🤩 I'm already planning my next visit!

If you're ever in Charleston and craving authentic, delicious ramen, you absolutely MUST check out Frankie Ramen! You won't...

Frankie Ramen is a true gem!

I stopped by with my best man and another close friend on a Wednesday night, and it turned out to be the perfect hump day treat. We ordered the Shio Ramen (pork) along with dumplings, and everything was made completely from scratch.

The ramen was absolutely delicious—savory and flavorful, yet surprisingly light. The broth had this delicate balance with a touch of lemon that made it stand out from any ramen I’ve had before. The dumplings were just as satisfying and clearly prepared with care.

What made the night even more memorable was meeting the chef and owner. He personally came to our table, and his passion for the craft was inspiring. Learning that he studied in Japan for 18 days straight, perfecting his skills, gave so much depth to the experience. Even more exciting—he shared that the larger restaurant is still under construction, and there are plenty of surprises he’s planning to unveil soon.

The concept of hosting his residency inside Frontier Lounge is brilliant. The space itself has such a cool mix—vintage charm with a western edge—that made it a fun and unique setting to enjoy a bowl of ramen.

For just $25 with tip, this meal was worth every penny. I’m so excited to see Frankie’s journey unfold and can’t wait to come back. Wishing Frankie all the success...