Menya Noodle Bar
It's a big call to claim that something is the best of its kind. Yet it doesn't feel like a stretch to hand Menya the title of Best Ramen Bar in Sydney.
Overview
It's a big call to claim that something is the best of its kind. Yet it doesn't feel like a stretch to hand Menya the title of Best Ramen Bar in Sydney. The noodles are fresh and chewy, the broth is incredibly rich, and the atmosphere is just the right kind of casual.
For the beginner, we suggest the Menya ramen. Pick the Tonkotsu, beef, or Tori-gara, chicken, broth base then opt for either Shoyu ($9.30/$9), a salty soy sauce flavour, or Miso ($10.30/$10), a richer choice. Our favourite is the Menya Tonkotsu Miso ramen ($10.30). If you'd prefer a ramen with extra toppings, try the Tori Kara-age Ramen (from $10.90), with deep fried kara-age chicken, or add extras like Kakiage Tempura ($2.50) or Sweet Corn ($1.50).
There are plenty of other great choices on offer. The Menya Value Box ($14.90) includes your pick of a main meal and ramen, along with rice and salad. Another rare treat is the Menya Curry (from $7.90), which we recommend with Tori Kara-age. For the super hungry (and the serves are generous), take your pick from entrees like Tako Yaki ($6.50), or octopus balls, and Gyoza ($6.90) dumplings.
The only drawback of Menya is it's size: this tiny restaurant centres around one long table, and you'll find yourself directed to whatever seat is free. For this reason, visiting Menya with a group is almost impossible. This spot is best to visit with only a friend or two, and be careful of waiting times during busier hours.