As the days get cooler in the Mile High, it’s a great excuse to treat yourself to a warm dinner out in the city. Nothing compares to warming up with a hot brothy bowl of ramen. If you’re unfamiliar with the gourmet version of this Japanese dish, you’re missing out. Here are some of the top trending spots in Denver to get your hands on a steaming bowl of ramen noodles:

 

Osaka Ramen

This trendy spot can be found in the RiNO district on Walnut Street. You might not spot them right away, as they’re a bit tucked away downstairs. The atmosphere is modern and active in their dining room and bar. This lively space tends to be busy, even on Sunday nights. Chef Jeff Osaka cooks up a variety of unique small plates, Bento boxes and, of course, ramen. With options like Spicy Miso and Chicken Shoyu, you’re sure to find a ramen noodle bowl to fit your taste. They claim the title of “Denver’s Best Ramen Shop”, so give them a try and see for yourself.

 

Tokio

This ramen restaurant is nestled in the Prospect neighborhood adjacent to Prospect Park. Chef Miki Hashimoto previously ran the popular sushi restaurant Japon and has since created this cutting-edge, Tokyo-style restaurant right in downtown Denver. Here, they serve up some of the largest variety of ramen in the Denver area. With eleven different ramen options and many more small plates and grilled specialties, this is a great place to bring a group with different tastes. For a unique take on traditional ramen, try their Cremosa Diablo, a spicy yet creamy style noodle bowl with cha syu pork. The space is cozy, just where you want to be on a chilly autumn day, with a sushi bar downstairs and an upstairs dining area as well.

 

Sera’s Ramen Enclave

Venture down the alleyway on 32nd street to get to one of the Mile High’s hidden gems. This ramen spot is Sera Nguyen’s creation, and it’s an inviting and friendly spot to get some fantastic noodles. There’s a nice variety of appetizers, specials, and, of course, ramen, with some non-traditional options as well. Try their “Flavorsome Ramen” with oxtail, enoki mushrooms, and a slice of fish cake. On a balmy day, they have a lovely covered courtyard where you and friends can enjoy your noodles.

 

Uncle

This is by far one of the most popular ramen spots in the city. You can tell by the long line that often wraps around the building with people willing to wait in the cold for their favorite noodles. They’re located in the Highlands, but with the great demand, they promise a new location this winter of 2018 in West Wash Park. For now, I suggest coming early to secure your spot in line and trying one of their delicious ramen options with an order of pork buns. One favorite is their Spicy Chicken ramen with creamy sesame broth and a soft egg. Catch them Monday through Saturday from 5 to 10PM.

 

For ramen connoisseurs, it seems each person has their favorite noodle house in Denver. These four are great places to start your search for your preferred take on this classic Japanese noodle dish.