Malaysia
Singapore
Thailand
Tucked away in the heart of the CBD, Broth & Bowls Ramen is a true hidden gem for ramen aficionados out there — or really for anyone seeking a comforting meal. This cosy, hole-in-the-wall spot is a dedicated one-man show, run by a friendly boss who warmly welcomes familiar faces and remembers his regulars. Through the working week, he serves up hearty yet affordable Japanese classics — from rich, soul-warming tonkotsu broth to satisfying curry rice bowls. It’s the perfect spot to unwind amidst the fast-paced nature of the CBD.
What to order at Broth & Bowls Ramen
We started off with a basic Tonkotsu Chashu Ramen (S$11.90). The noodles are cooked perfectly al dente, and are slightly thicker than usual ramen noodles. The chef offered to cook them to my preferred doneness, to which I requested them to be “hard”. They ended up being addictively springy with a toothsome bite, and maintained their firmness without getting soggy from sitting in the soup.
The noodles are served in a pork-bone broth that is simmered for hours until rich and deeply savoury. The pale, creamy soup was lighter and less greasy than I expected, and had a pleasant sweetness. Once mixed in, the dish was further elevated by the generous heap of negi — aka finely chopped spring onion — sitting atop the noodles. They lent a vibrant freshness to the bowl’s otherwise heavy elements. The chef informed me that he sometimes serves the ramen with a side of corn kernels as well, which I can imagine would add a lovely pop of sweetness with every bite.
17 affordable Japanese food in Singapore that will make you go Oishii!
But the Black Garlic Chashu Ramen (S$12.90) honestly hit it out of the park for me. Similarly, the thick noodles were al dente with a perfect chew. But the game-changer is the addition of aromatic black garlic, which lifts the bowl, adding a fragrant layer of umami that ties everything together. The rich, roasted garlic aroma played extremely well with the negi and seaweed.
The strongest component of both bowls was the chashu, which was so soft that I had trouble holding it up to get a photo. The meat was melt-in-your-mouth tender and had a nice char from being blowtorched before it was served. I could tell it had been marinated well from its deeply rich profile and slightly sweet notes. The half onsen egg was pleasantly jammy, though I wish it had been marinated longer for a stronger taste.
I’d definitely be back to try the Tonkotsu Unagi Udon (S$14.90), which was unfortunately out of stock when I visited. It struck me as a pretty unusual offering at a decently affordable price.
I’d recommend making your way down as soon as your lunch break permits. I visited at 2pm and was informed by the boss that he had run out of almost all options besides tonkotsu ramen, with udon, unagi and chicken curry already sold out.
Who is Broth & Bowls Ramen best for?
I can imagine Broth & Bowls Ramen being an ideal spot for CBD office workers looking for a quiet, relaxing eatery and a comforting, soupy meal. Given its weekday-only operating hours, it’s a perfect retreat away from the usual peak-hour crowds.
How to get to Broth & Bowls Ramen
Broth and Bowls Ramen is located on level 2 of Oxley Tower, which is just a 4-minute walk from Tanjong Pagar MRT Station (EW15). The station connects to the East-West Line. Take Exit G and walk towards Telok Ayer Street before turning right onto McCallum Street.
Alternatively, you can take a 6-minute walk from Shenton Way MRT Station (TEL19), which connects to the Thomson-East Coast Line. Take Exit 3 and walk down Park Street, before crossing the road and continuing straight onto McCallum Street.
If you prefer to travel by bus, alight at Aft Capital Twr (03111). Do note that the stop is served daily by 10, 97, 100, 106, 130, 133, and 196. Services 70 and 107 operate on weekdays and Saturdays only (switching to 70M and 107M on Sundays and public holidays). Express routes 10e, 97e, and 196e, along with City Direct and Premium peak-hour services 545, 591, 592, 646, 647, 648, 649, 650, 651, 652, 653, 654, 655, 656, 657, 660, 660M, 661, 663, 665, 666, 667, 668, 670, and 671, run only on weekday peak periods with no weekend or public holiday service.
Do we recommend Broth & Bowls Ramen?
For sure! Broth & Bowls Ramen is an easy recommendation from me. Beyond the delicious and affordable food, it’s the personal touch that makes it a really special place. Being run entirely by a friendly boss who takes the time to remember his regulars really warms your heart. If you work in the area and want a satisfying weekday lunch break, this spot is a must-try.
People also read:
