Tanaka Ramen - Honolulu Restaurant Image
#665 of 1,740 Restaurants in Honolulu Japanese

Tanaka Ramen

4.3(6 community reviews)
Moderate ($$)

About

Discover Tanaka Ramen, offering the best Japanese experience in Ala Moana. Enjoy Moderate ($$) meals, explore their menu, and read reviews from the community on TasteHi.

A Slurp-Worthy Escape in the Heart of Honolulu

Walking into Tanaka Ramen, you are immediately met with the savory, heavy steam of long-simmered pork bone broth that clings to the air. This is the place for those who treat ramen as a serious culinary ritual rather than a quick bite. Tucked away within the bustling urban landscape of Honolulu, the shop cuts through the tropical heat with a focused, minimalist aesthetic that keeps your attention squarely on the ceramic bowl in front of you.

The Craft Behind the Bowl

The menu centers on the dedication to the base stock. Whether you opt for the classic Tonkotsu—which carries a creamy, opaque richness achieved through hours of boiling bones—or a lighter shoyu variation, the depth of flavor is undeniable. The noodles here offer that specific, satisfying snap required of a high-quality bowl, striking a balance between firm and tender. The chashu is typically torched just before serving, leaving a faint, smoky char that dances with the saltiness of the broth.

What to Expect

The energy is brisk and efficient, typical of a busy Honolulu noodle house. It is the kind of spot where you might find yourself shoulder-to-shoulder with locals on a lunch break or travelers seeking a reliable meal near the Ala Moana area. Be prepared for a bit of a scramble during peak hours, as the popularity of this ramen house often leads to a full house. It is loud, vibrant, and moves at the pace of a hungry crowd. If you appreciate the nuance of a perfectly soft-boiled, soy-marinated egg and the pungent bite of fresh garlic, this is your local go-to for an authentic Japanese soul-warming meal.

Photos

Tanaka Ramen - Honolulu Restaurant Image
Tanaka Ramen - Honolulu Restaurant Image
Tanaka Ramen - Honolulu Restaurant Image
Tanaka Ramen - Honolulu Restaurant Image
Tanaka Ramen - Honolulu Restaurant Image
Tanaka Ramen - Honolulu Restaurant Image
Tanaka Ramen - Honolulu Restaurant Image
Tanaka Ramen - Honolulu Restaurant Image

Location

1450 Ala Moana Blvd 2nd Floor, Honolulu, Hawaii, 96814-4603

Directions

Reviews

Showing 9 of 6 community reviews
E

Ella StevensGoogle Maps

Recently

I'm totally obsessed with the overall ambiance of this restaurant. The whole space is spotlessly clean and well-kept, styled with sleek modern Japanese interior decor. The warm and intimate seating layout creates a super cozy vibe, letting guests unwind and enjoy a leisurely peaceful dinner time.

C

Cathy BurnsGoogle Maps

Recently

The service here is top-notch! The whole team of staff are warm, approachable and super attentive throughout my entire meal. All dishes are served out swiftly without long waiting time, and every staff member greets guests sincerely, making us feel warmly welcomed and comfortable the whole time.

T

Toby WilliamsGoogle Maps

Recently

I ordered the Pork Katsu Curry Don and thoroughly enjoyed every bite. The crispy breaded pork cutlet was perfectly cooked, with a crunchy exterior and tender, juicy meat inside. It was topped with a rich and flavorful Japanese curry sauce that paired wonderfully with the soft, freshly steamed rice. The combination of textures and flavors made the dish incredibly satisfying and memorable.

D

D'apres-Etienne GibbsGoogle Maps

Recently

This place is awesome! The staff are super friendly and really helpful with their food recommendations. They definitely know how to guide you to the best dishes on the menu. Seriously, the food itself is amazing, and the service just makes the whole experience even better. I'd highly recommend checking this place out if you get the chance.

A

Abraham WangGoogle Maps

Recently

We order Tanaka rich garlic and Tanaka classic Raman, very delicious and tasty Noddle is textured Service is inviting Location is not easy to find when use google map to navigate due to the store is behind shopping mall, Victoria secret is next door.

A

Adamo StivalaGoogle Maps

Recently

Overall tasty vegan ramen but it was warm not hot. Decor could be a bit better

K

Kaleb HansenGoogle Maps

Recently

Fantastic ramen spot! Best ramen I ever had. Everything we tried was very delicious.

A

April BredeGoogle Maps

Recently

Delicious Japanese style Ramen noodles. I chose to have the kimchi Ramen… It was divinely unami! I absolutely adored all the original artwork and asked the waitress Sherry?(who was extremely competent) who the artist was. Apparently, it was Josephine Tanaka... a supremely talented family member 🥹 Who doesn't love a family owned business that serves the food they love to share with their own Ohana?

D

DanielGoogle Maps

Recently

Best ramen I have ever had in my life. Got the volcano lava Tanaka, a side of sausages and Japanese beer. Delicious! The broth was fantastic, the noodles flavorful, and the beer crisp and refreshing.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Tanaka Ramen

Common questions from diners about Tanaka Ramen in Honolulu.

Yes, we feature a dedicated Veggie Ramen made with a hearty vegetable broth and fresh seasonal vegetables.

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