When people think of Kentucky cuisine, their mind probably goes to Southern food, bourbon, and derby pie. While these are certainly delicious, they represent only a tiny part of the Bluegrass State’s gastronomy. Case in point: There is some truly delicious ramen to be found here. Not sure where to go? Start in these three places that serve some of the best noodles in Kentucky.
The Best Ramen Spots in Kentucky
To make life simple, we’re providing a narrow list of noodle shops in three of Kentucky’s best cities. This list certainly isn’t exhaustive, but it’s a great place to start for anyone who loves ramen enough to plan a trip around it.
1. Simply Ramen BG, Bowling Green
Because Bowling Green is a refugee resettlement town, it boasts a more diverse population. In fact, Asians make up 7.7 percent of its population, which is significantly higher than Kentucky’s overall 2.1 percent. It comes as no surprise, then, that BG has great noodles. For the best bowls in town, head to Simply Ramen BG. The fairly casual spot has indoor and outdoor seating, and a pan-Asian menu that includes bao buns, egg rolls, and edamame — though the ramen overshadows everything else. Go the classic route and order a tonkotsu or spicy shoyu ramen. Or go wild with the misosaurus, a large bowl served with spicy miso, shredded chicken, pork chashu, spinach, wood ear mushroom, marinated egg, scallions, and roasted seaweed.
2. Ramen House, Louisville
As one of Kentucky’s most exciting cities, Louisville has many attractions and restaurants. Whether you’re heading to the Derby or doing a fun walking tour around town, make sure to stop by Ramen House at some point. The menu brings together different Asian flavors, though the best dishes might be those that highlight Korean traditions. Order the spicy bulgogi bowl for a comforting dish made with thin, marinated beef slices. Other stand-out noodle options include the vegetarian curry bowl and the unagi eel bowl. If you can make it during the week between 3 and 5:50 p.m., you’ll get happy hour discounts: 20 percent off select drinks and appetizers, $2 off rice bowls, and $3 off ramen.
3. Olla Taqueria Gutierrez, Covington
It may be a bit blasphemous to include a taco place on a ramen list, but hear me out. Although Olla Taqueria Gutierrez mainly focuses on tacos and other Mexican fare, it also offers a life-changing birria ramen topped with cilantro and onion, and served with radish and a lime wedge. This unique dish earns the casual, family-owned joint a spot among the restaurants with the best noodles in Kentucky. After enjoying this indulgently large bowl, head to Covington’s fun MainStrasse neighborhood, where you’ll find boutique shops and lots of bourbon bars.
Celebrate National Noodle Month at These Spots
March is National Noodle Month, so there is no better time to visit these restaurants (or any other ramen place) to celebrate this tasty dish. Happy slurping!
Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner…