
Pros
Cons
TL; DR | Summary
Indulge in a bowl of authentic Japanese ramen that is bursting with volumes of umami flavours. Gumshara is the King of Tonkotsu Ramen in Sydney - with 200kg of fresh pork bone simmering for over 14 hours. With no MSG and no added thickeners, the result is pure flavour straight from the source.
Gumshara Review
@bestspots.com.au Indulge in a bowl of authentic Japanese ramen that is bursting with volumes of umami flavours ⬇️ Gumshara is the King of Tonkotsu Ramen in Sydney - with 200kg of fresh pork bone simmering for over 14 hours 🤯. With no MSG and no added thickeners, the result is pure flavour straight from the source. This humble restaurant is the only ramen establishment in Sydney offering a range of condiments to add to their flavourful soup 😋. From Japanese chilli oil 🌶️ to green onions and sauce, you can further customise your noodle 🍜 experience to your heart's content. In terms of price, while it's risen over the years, the cost is justifiable as the portions are generous and made with quality ingredients 👌, from the chashu (braised pork belly) to the marinated boiled egg 🥚. The friendly owner Mori Higashida and his long-term chef Shingo Kubo, are the same faces in the open kitchen each day, preparing all the ramen dishes with passion, dedication and consistency 🙏. This is the only restaurant where I've tried every menu item plus the specials, so you know it must be good 😄. ➡️ For the full run-down go to bestspots.com.au #sydneyfoodiediaries #sydneyeatstreet #sydneydelicious #restaurantssydney #placestovisitsydney ♬ space song sped up - autumn <3
Gumshara holds a special place in my heart and is my favourite ramen shop in Sydney for many reasons. Having visited countless times for over 11 years, I've watched them maintain their tradition while gradually adapting to emerging changes, including the challenging Covid pandemic.
I hope this review enlightens those on the fence about this shop or sceptics under the impression that the broth is too thick to enjoy or that the prices are too high.
This humble restaurant is the only ramen establishment in Sydney offering a range of condiments to add to their flavourful soup. From Japanese chilli oil to green onions and sauce, you can further customise your noodle experience to your heart's content.
There are also exciting specials to choose from throughout the year. You can grab tonkotsu curry ramen, lobster broth ramen and squid ink ramen - all unique and worth trying. I recommend bringing water as you'll likely get thirsty; however, drinks and a few dessert options are also available.
In terms of price, while it's risen over the years, the cost is justifiable as the portions are generous and made with quality ingredients, from the chashu (braised pork belly) to the marinated boiled egg.
The friendly owner Mori Higashida and his long-term chef Shingo Kubo, are the same faces in the open kitchen each day, preparing all the ramen dishes with passion, dedication and consistency.
This is the only restaurant where I've tried every menu item plus the specials, so you know it must be good.
Authentic Ramen From A Busy Japanese Eatery
Gumshara's broth is thick, flavourful, and comforting. It's not too heavy that it overwhelms the flavour, but has enough body so you can appreciate its full and rich taste.
If you prefer a thin and light broth, you can easily request this when you make your order. Additionally, you can utilise the DIY complimentary soup base to suit your preferences.
Now, let's talk about the noodles. They are soft yet firm, cooked al dente. There's nothing worse than noodles that aren't cooked just right, and that's no problem here. Plus, the toppings are always deliciously well prepared and packed with all the right flavours.
Note that there are two sizes (regular and large). The standard size is usually enough to fill you up, but the large is worth it if you're starving. I also recommend adding a seasoned egg, which is adequately marinated and worth adding to the ramen.
It's hard to have a bad meal here, but I must warn you this place is very popular so arrive early or risk waiting 20-30 minutes.
On the bright side, the service is always warm and friendly. Ramen enthusiasts, like the Ramen Gang Facebook Group or people familiar with Japan, know that Gumshara is considered the best ramen in Sydney. They have a cult following that travels far and wide just to indulge in a bowl of their ramen.
Hidden Food Court Gem
This humble ramen shop is located in a food court in the heart of Haymarket, Chinatown. To find the shop, head to the main strip on Dixon Street until you see Eat Street Food Court.
For first timers, it may be tricky to find, but it is best to enter through Goulburn Street, which will lead you straight to Gumshara.
There's ample seating in the food court, with tables shared with our restaurants and shops. If you get there early enough before the lunch (12pm) or dinner (5:30pm) rush, seating should be easy to find. However, be prepared to do some table hovering or opt for takeaway during peak hours, as there will be a daily queue.
Fun fact: The two food court stalls adjacent to Gumshara are usually almost always for lease. Gumshara is such a fan favourite in Sydney that is has dominated the competition within the food court circle, making it difficult for newcomers to thrive.
Ramen that's actually worth the price
Prices have steeply gone up over the years. However, it's still worth it, considering the quality of every component and the hours of effort that goes into preparing each bowl.
The prices range from $18.50 for a regular tonkotsu and up to $41.50 for a regular Mega bowl. With most ramen prices in the $20-$25 range, Gumshara is definitely on the higher end of the scale.
There's also the option for large-size portions for about an extra $6.
Take-Away & Delivery
In response to the Covid pandemic, the shop has taken extra precautions to ensure the safety of everyone by implementing pick-up and delivery services to far distances across NSW, we're talking delivery to Penrith and Newcastle!
For their frozen version, they package it in a vacuum-sealed container to ensure that the broth and noodles stay as fresh as possible. It is easy to prepare with helpful instructions and can be stored for many months.
While I still recommend experiencing the magic in person, this service is great for easy ramen satisfaction when you really need your fix but can't make the commute.
Garlic Tonkotsu Ramen / Spicy Garlic Tonkotsu Ramen - 10/10
Whether you like your soup mild or spicy, you cannot go wrong with the garlic tonkotsu ramen. There's a generous serving of garlic pieces and black garlic oil in the broth, so it packs a punch with each mouthful while still maintaining a beautiful rich flavour.
The chashu pork is well marinated and when paired with the seasoned egg and seaweed, it's a classic full-bodied ramen. Ten out of ten, chefs kiss, home run. Need I say more?
Hot tip, if you enjoy a kick of chilli, opt for the spicy version. It won't overpower and enhances the flavour even further.
Mega Ramen 8/10
As the name suggests, the Mega Ramen is hefty. It includes three types of pork and an egg on top. There's plenty of protein with BBQ pork slices, spare rib, and fatty pork skewers.
While all the meat adds a unique flavour profile and has its place, it can be overwhelming, especially if you're not in your bulking phase.
However, if you like a big bowl of meat, you've come to the right place. This bowl is for those who can't get enough pork and want to indulge in something extra special.
BBQ Pork Ramen - 7/10
A classic combination of 6-8 slices of chashu pork, noodles, egg, bamboo shoots and seaweed - this bowl of ramen is a great choice if you're not in the mood for anything too heavy and are after simplicity.
This bowl doesn't include garlic or chilli (which usually adds depth of flavour), so it definitely feels like it's missing something.
Once you add the complimentary condiments, the bowl is elevated to a whole new level. I recommend chilli oil, roasted sesame seeds, garlic soy sauce, and chives.
However, if you prefer something subtle and less intense, this bowl is for you.
Rich Fish Tonkotsu Ramen 9/10
Fish and tonkotsu is a combination you rarely see. It combines the rich umami broth with a hint of seafood aftertaste from the fish bones. It's the good kind of fish flavour and comes with BBQ pork slices and bamboo shoots.
While I'm usually not one for fish broth, this one has a unique and pleasant aftertaste that isn't overpowering. The balanced blending of both pork and seafood is precisely what makes this bowl of noodles so unique. So if you're looking for something more adventurous or slightly different, the Rich Fish Tonkotsu Ramen is a must-try.
@bestspots.com.au CHECK out a few of their rare ramen specials below ⬇️ 🦞 Lobster Ramen (Special) 9/10 If you're after something unique and extra special, this is it. The broth is made from lobster shells and heads (no lobster meat, unfortunately). It's a heavy broth, but it's worth it if you're a fan of lobster 😜. 🍛 Curry Tonkotsu Ramen (Special) 9/10 The broth has added enough curry flavour that isn't too overpowering. It pairs well with BBQ pork and the other usual components. This will likely make another comeback soon, so keep an eye out 😄. This is a must-try if you enjoy Japanese curry. 🦑 Squid Ink Tonkotsu Ramen (Special) - 6.5/10 Topped with pitch-black squid ink, this is a dramatic bowl of black ramen that's quite unique 💯. While the colour is intense, the squid ink is actually quite subtle. It's barely noticeable, so it doesn't taste much different from regular tonkotsu ramen 😔. 📕 The full detailed experience awaits at bestspots.com.au #sydneyfoodblog #sydneyfoodbloggers #sydneysiders #foodiesydney #sydneyfooddiary ♬ Cupid (Twin Ver.) - FIFTY FIFTY
Lobster Ramen (special) 9/10
About twice a year, Mori treats his customers with the option of a special Lobster Ramen. This bowl is only available for a limited time, and you'll have to watch the Gumshara or the Ramen Gang Facebook page to be in the know.
If you're after something unique and extra special, this is it. The broth is made from lobster shells and heads (no lobster meat, unfortunately). It's a heavy broth, but it's worth it if you're a fan of lobster.
Curry Tonkotsu Ramen (special) 9/10
Yep, this combination works, and it works really well. It's a fascinating mix of Japanese curry and a tonkotsu broth and is mashed together perfectly. If there's one thing Gumshara does well, it's incorporating new concepts into its ramen while maintaining its original integrity.
The broth has added enough curry flavour that isn't too overpowering. It pairs well with BBQ pork and the other usual components. This will likely make another comeback soon, so keep an eye out. This is a must-try if you enjoy Japanese curry.
Squid Ink Tonkotsu Ramen (special) - 6.5/10
Topped with pitch-black squid ink, this is a dramatic bowl of black ramen that's quite unique. While the colour is intense, the squid ink is actually quite subtle. It's barely noticeable, so it doesn't taste much different from regular tonkotsu ramen.
They will need to switch up where they source their squid ink, as I could barely recognise its presence in terms of taste. Like the other bowls, it comes with BBQ pork, bamboo shoots and seaweed.
RECOMMENDED
- Garlic Tonkotsu Ramen
- Lobster Ramen (special)
- Curry Tonkotsu (special)
- Fish Tonkotsu Ramen
- Mega Ramen
- Utilising condiments and free broth to elevate your ramen
Final Words
Overall, Gumshara is highly rated for a reason, and it's the best ramen in Sydney. Sure, it's not for everyone, but the experience was worth it. So if you're ever in Sydney and looking for a good bowl of ramen, head down to Gumshara, and you will be satisfied. I would (and have) come back to this place repeatedly, so much so that I've been able to sample the entire menu, as you can see in my post. 10/10!
Where To Find Gumshara Haymarket
Address
Hours
- Monday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Website
https://gumshara.com/
+61 410 253 180
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