Straight out of Seattle, Samurai Noodle offers a miso-based vegan option for those who eschew meat. Classic tonkotsu and shoyu broths poured over consistently good noodles and garnished with fresh toppings are equally solid. Definitely try the tsukemen, or ramen with broth served on the side.

Ramen gets a Texas twist at Soma Sushi, where a tonkotsu base is topped with barbecue pork belly, corn, shiitake, and more. Miso ramen is also on the menu, spiked with habanero and chili powder.

The ramen options at this Midtown restaurant are abundant, ranging from a Mexican “menudo-style” noodle soup to traditional tonkotsu and vegetarian broth. Consider the inventive mazemen, served with garlic veloute and brandy-cured foie gras for a decidedly modern riff on the classic noodle bowl.

This Austin export has staked its place as one of the city's best ramen restaurants. Miso, tonkotsu, and more inventive broths are on offer, all of which can be amped up with a ton of toppings (like marinated bamboo, Parmesan, and mushrooms). Outside of the noodles, don't skip the Yodas, sweet and sour brussels sprouts tossed in apricot vinegar and curry spice.

This California-based ramen chain is currently staking a bigger presence in Houston, but for now head to Midtown for a bowl of ridiculously creamy tonkotsu broth and springy, fresh noodles. Vegetarians can also chow down here on a veggie bowl packed with cauliflower, mushrooms, and asparagus.

Not to be confused with Jinya Ramen, Ramen Jin on Westheimer serves three different ramen broths (tonkotsu, shoyu, and miso) along with a "dry" sesame ramen that's definitely worth a try. Be sure to save enough room to feast on a matcha waffle when all the noodles are gone.

A Houston favorite for sushi, Kata Robata's ramen offerings should also be on your culinary bucket list. Go for the spicy soy broth, which makes for a perfect addition to a light sashimi course.

Serving up some of Houston's most authentic Japanese fare since 1985, Nippon Japanese is home to solid, no-frills bowls of soy, tonkotsu, and miso ramen. Beware the tiny parking lot.

Tiger Den is an obvious choice for reliably good ramen from one of Asiatown’s most prolific restaurateurs. Shoyu, tonkotsu, and miso broths are on offer, in addition to a tantan sesame broth. Stick with the classic tonkotsu — it's nice and creamy and generously topped with tender pork.