Tomo No Ramen is a Japanese noodle bar in Old Market, Bristol, specialising in carefully made ramen with a focus on depth of flavour and well-sourced ingredients. Led by native Bristolian chef and co-owner James Stuart, a passionate home cook turned chef who has spent nearly a decade refining his craft, the restaurant takes a focused, detail-led approach. Its name translates as “friend’s ramen”, reflecting its informal, welcoming feel.
Inside, the space is warm and cosy, with a simple, stripped-back layout. Exposed brick walls, wooden tables and a small bar create an unfussy setting, while hanging greenery and strings of fairy lights softens the look. Large front windows bring in natural light during the day, while in the evening the room feels more intimate, with a relaxed, ambient atmosphere.
The menu is concise and regularly updated, drawing on classic ramen styles while using locally sourced ingredients. Bowls include yuzu shio, a yuzu and ginger-seasoned broth with pork, spinach and egg, alongside shoyu ramen with soy and garlic broth, and tantanmen, a sesame-spiced broth with chilli oil, beef mince, egg and shallot. Vegetarian and vegan options are always available, sitting alongside these traditional meat offerings and extra toppings including egg, rice and nori seaweed can be added.
Sides are designed to complement the ramen, with options such as chicken or mushroom karaage with Japanese curry mayo, crispy aubergine, smashed cucumber with mala sesame dressing and house kimchi.
Desserts include cafe creme brulee or toasted vanilla ice cream with sesame crumble and burnt orange puree. Drinks span beers, sake, wines and soft drinks including house lemonade, alongside cocktails such as a spiced whisky sawa, lemon sawa or a Toki highball.