Japan is a popular destination, especially for holidays (think of all the good food in Osaka and Tokyo), and what's the best dish to try when you're in Japan? The answer is none other than ramen or soba, and these are the dishes that Japan is famous for (think Ippudo and Ichiran)! There's nothing nicer than a comforting broth after milling about.
Yet, many famous ramen stalls in Japan, especially the popular ones, would require one to queue for at least 1-2 hours. Here are three underrated must-try ramen stalls that proved to be equally delicious and slurp-worthy—yet without the hassle of a long queue!
3. The Ramen War

The Ramen War is conveniently located in the heart of Osaka, near Shinsabaishi station. Upon serving, the bowl of ramen was decorated fully with raw pork slices, which can be slowly cooked to perfection as one dunks it into the soup, which was savoury, light and umami. The Ramen War may come with a queue - but the waiting time was around only 30 minutes.
Location: 3 Chome-3-6 Minamikyuhojimachi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 541-0058, Japan
Opening hours: Daily (Mon - Sun), 11am - 11pm
Website: https://ramen-daisenso.com
2. HUMAN BEINGS EVERYBODY NOODLES
If you're looking for clear and delicious soy sauce ramen, this is the place to go. Lined with thick pork slices and chewy noodles, this place serves comforting and soothing bowls of noodles. There was no queue when we went there, but the shop had an unassuming storefront, which may be easily missed.

Location: 1 Chome-12-15 Nishinakajima, Yodogawa Ward, Osaka, 532-0011, Japan
Opening hours: Open daily, but opening hours vary
Website: https://www.jinrui-minamenrui.com/
1. GOKU SHOKUDO JANJAN YOKOCHO
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sM-WXgqkwuU
This was our favourite ramen stall out of all the ones we tried—a small ramen shop located right outside the Dobutsuen-Mae station (you are sure to pass by if you are heading to Tennoji Zoo!) The local flavours are extraordinary yet simple at the same time. If you are on the hunt for underrated ramen stalls, this is one you cannot miss. This is also one of the more affordable ramen stalls in Osaka.
Location: 3 Chome-3-8 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002, Japan
Opening hours: Open Tues - Sun but opening hours vary, closed on Mondays
Website: https://gokushokudo.com/
Be sure to try out these recommended shops and let us know what you think!
Kindly note that while the author makes every effort to present accurate information, details and circumstances may change. Readers are advised to follow the information at their own discretion.
- ZA