There is no shortage of good Japanese restaurants in the Opéra district. However, some still manage to stand out from the crowd. Takesan Donabe Ramen is one of them. Opened in the 2nd arrondissement, the restaurant quickly made a name for itself with a specialty that is still relatively uncommon in Paris: ramen served in a donabe, a traditional Japanese earthenware pot.
One of the most original ramen restaurants in the capital
The project was born out of a simple desire: to offer ramen that is faithful to Japanese regional traditions, with miso at the center of the dish. Here, there is no endless menu or infinite variations. Everything revolves around broths made from artisanal miso from the Shinshu region, produced by a Japanese company with centuries of expertise.
On the menu, tonkotsu miso ramen is the most popular choice. A rich broth, homemade noodles, chashu pork, seasoned minced pork, bean sprouts, and spring onions. The whole dish is balanced, generous, and, of course, highly comforting. For those who prefer to avoid meat, the vegan miso ramen offers a tasty alternative, built around vegetables, tofu, and soy products, still based on the distinctive miso flavor. The spicier miso tantan-men also appeals to those who enjoy slightly more intense flavors.
Gyozas and karaage complete the meal, and prices, generally between €15 and €18 for a bowl, are in line with the neighborhood average. Like many establishments in the neighborhood, Takesan Donabe does not take reservations. So you’ll need to arrive early or be patient before treating yourself to one of the most original ramen dishes in Paris.
📍Location: Takesan Donabe Ramen – 20, rue de la Michodière, 75002
📆 Hours: Open Tuesday through Friday from noon to 3 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. – Open weekends from noon to 10:30 p.m.