Chuka-Soba Rantan
Savor exceptional ramen in Kyoto with a 4.8/5 rating at this popular spot. Discover rich broths and perfectly cooked noodles.
About Chuka-Soba Rantan
This Kyoto eatery offers a highly acclaimed dining experience, boasting an impressive 4.8 out of 5 stars. Diners frequently praise the deeply flavorful broths, with many highlighting the richness and perfectly cooked noodles. While the name might suggest otherwise, the focus here is on expertly crafted ramen, not soba. The atmosphere is efficient, often described as a no-nonsense vending machine style for ordering, and it operates on a cash-only basis. For those seeking a unique and satisfying ramen journey in Kyoto, this establishment is a standout choice, beloved by locals and visitors alike for its distinctive and delicious offerings.
Restaurant Analysis
Restaurant Characteristics
This restaurant has been analyzed using our formula-based system to help you understand its key features and match it with your dining preferences.
Price Range (Moderate)
Moderate pricing ($$) - Mid-range restaurants with good value
Meal Time (lunch)
This restaurant primarily serves lunch. Based on opening hours.
Group Size (Flexible)
Flexible group sizes. Can accommodate various party sizes.
Atmosphere (Casual)
Relaxed and laid-back atmosphere
Dining Style (Casual)
Walk-in friendly. No reservations needed. Casual dining experience.
Features & Amenities
This restaurant offers: Beer
Set your restaurant preferences in your profile to see how well this restaurant matches your dining style.
Why Travelers Love Chuka-Soba Rantan
Sourced from recent guest feedback and verified reviews.
First dinner meal since touching down here in Kyoto. No nonsense vending machine style and cash only payment. Flavourful broth and it's Ramen not soba don't be fooled by the name. Had the creamy soup base and aged soy base. Both were on the heavy tasting side (saltier side) but for me this was perfect. Do try if you are looking for something unique. Best ramen I’ve ever had. I got the small aged soy and ginger ramen. The broth alone was amazing, so flavorful. The noodles were cooked perfectly. The service was great and the atmosphere was peaceful. Plus the restaurant was ran by only women (#fem). A wonderful experience, I highly recommend. The ramen is amazing and the service is so nice! A very traditional experience. The place is small, quiet and very clean, the guys are cooking in front of you! We just find out the place and get into - no reservation was needed. They communicate both in English and Italian. I would give more than 5 stars 😉😉
Find the Restaurant
Where to Find Them
Opening Hours
Sign in to boost this restaurant with your daily points
Sign In to PromoteInstant Boost Packages
One-time purchase — points apply immediately to this restaurant
💡 Tip: Subscriptions are 90% cheaper per point!
Recent Reviews
Darrell G.
November 4, 2025
First dinner meal since touching down here in Kyoto. No nonsense vending machine style and cash only payment. Flavourful broth and it's Ramen not soba don't be fooled by the name. Had the creamy soup base and aged soy base. Both were on the heavy tasting side (saltier side) but for me this was perfect. Do try if you are looking for something unique.
Michelle L.
October 6, 2025
Best ramen I’ve ever had. I got the small aged soy and ginger ramen. The broth alone was amazing, so flavorful. The noodles were cooked perfectly. The service was great and the atmosphere was peaceful. Plus the restaurant was ran by only women (#fem). A wonderful experience, I highly recommend.
Chiara F.
August 22, 2025
The ramen is amazing and the service is so nice! A very traditional experience. The place is small, quiet and very clean, the guys are cooking in front of you! We just find out the place and get into - no reservation was needed. They communicate both in English and Italian. I would give more than 5 stars 😉😉
jennifer O.
November 9, 2025
Came right at 11:00am right at opening. We were the first people there and the place filled up as soon we got inside. The ramen is delicious. Very easy to order and staff is friendly + helpful Bring cash
Michelle S.
September 12, 2025
Such a delicious spot that we stumbled upon for breakfast! Highly recommend the ginger ramen, it was so yummy! It’s a vending machine style ramen shop so it’s pretty self explanatory. Insert cash and then press what you want to order. Give ticket to the ramen master and you wait patiently. Everyone is so kind here and I will come back again.
What to Expect
Features and amenities that make Chuka-Soba Rantan special
Beer
Practical Information
Everything you need to know before you visit
Parking
Other Popular Restaurants in Kyoto
Build your own culinary trail—save these spots for future nights out in Kyoto.
SUI Fine Dining Restaurant
Pound Sanjo-Kiyamachi
MABRUR HALAL DINING Kyoto
Down-to-earth Indian & Bangladeshi destination specializing in curries & kebabs.
View RestaurantKyoto Tempura Tententen Kyoto Station
Kyoto Tempura Ten no Meshi Gionhonten
A5 Wagyu Sukiyaki Kyoto Panga | Kyoto Halal restaurant
Wagyu Yakiniku Kyoto Gyuen Sanjokawaramachi
Kyoto Tonkatsu Katsuda Sanjo Kawaramachi
Shaved Ice and Smoked Beef Sushi Entotsu Kyoto
Halal Wagyu Sukiyaki & Steak ZEN Kyoto
Yakimeshi to Men Kyoto
GYUKATSU Kyoto Katsugyu Teramachi Kyogoku
Kyoto Dining
Wagyu(Halal) Japanese food Steak Hamburger & Ramen Shijo Restaurant 5W-Kyoto since1962
GYUKATSU Kyoto Katsugyu Kyoto Ekimae
Nakashimaya
Family-run restaurant for traditional Kyoto obanzai cuisine & an understated Japanese ambience.
View RestaurantKYOTO ENGINE RAMEN
Itoh Dining
Katsukura Tonkatsu Sanjo Main Store
Plan Your Kyoto Trip
From transportation to stays, we help you build a complete itinerary around this must-visit restaurant in Kyoto.
Transportation Tips
Excellent public transportation including buses and trains. Walking and cycling are perfect for exploring temples, and organized tours include transportation.
Car Rental Deals in Kyoto
Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.
Where to Stay
Find the perfect accommodation for your Kyoto adventure. From luxury beachfront resorts to boutique hideaways, we highlight the best basecamps for food lovers.
Best Hotel Deals in Kyoto
Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Expedia USA.
Popular Tours in Kyoto
Pair dinner at Chuka-Soba Rantan with these top-rated experiences in Kyoto.