A superb little ramen joint where the owner’s passion for both the craft of ramen-making and the ritual of eating it really shines through. The broth is excellent in both the Miso and Kuro ramen; the Kuro in particular was a standout, especially paired with the house-made gyoza. The kimchi tasted fresh, and it was great to see real wakame used rather than a shortcut substitute.
The wait staff is a bit inexperienced, and the restaurant layout is awkward. Reservations are apparently recommended, and this isn’t a place to visit if you’re in a rush. Still, those minor drawbacks are easy to overlook given the quality of the food. You’d have to drive into NYC to get better ramen. Highly recommended.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 5
Service: 4
Sichen Liu
I went into Tanma Ramen Tavern with pretty low expectations, not because of the place itself, but because Kingston is a small town and Japanese food options are limited. When I first saw “healthiest noodles” on the sign, I was honestly skeptical. But after reading the menu and the website, I could immediately tell this place was different from your typical chain ramen or “Asian fusion” spot.
You can feel the owner Youko’s care in everything. From the thought she put into the website to the way the menu is written and explained, it’s clear that this place is personal. When I walked in, I was greeted warmly, and even while folding dumplings, Youko still took the time to talk and explain the food.
I saw some reviews saying the staff is “too instructive” about how to eat the ramen. Personally? I didn’t find it offensive at all. I found it thoughtful. They’re not telling you what to do for fun, they care about how their food is experienced. They want you to taste it the way they created it. That’s rare.
The miso ramen and gyoza ramen were hands down the best I’ve ever had. I’ve eaten ramen everywhere, and this one shocked me. The flavors from the kombu, seaweed, kimchi, minced pork, and vinegar were so balanced and intentional. I loved how Youko explained to taste different parts of the ramen separately so you can experience each layer of flavor the way she designed it, instead of mixing everything together. It changed the whole experience.
I did think the sui gyoza dipping broth was more sour than expected at first, but honestly, that’s probably me coming from a Chinese background where dumplings are commonly dipped in vinegar anyway. Once I thought about it that way, it made perfect sense.
This is not a fast-food ramen place. If you want miso ramen, you should reserve. If you want extra chashu, call ahead. They make limited quantities because the food is curated, not mass-produced. It actually feels like a real neighborhood ramen shop, not just somewhere you rush in and out of.
I finished every drop of my soup. That says everything.
If I ever come back to Kingston, Tanma will be the first place I visit. Also, fun fact: “Tanma” means “time out.” Honestly, that fits perfectly. This place feels like hitting pause on the world for a bowl of something real.
p.s. バルタン星人 thought he sneaky😅
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Miso Ramen
Manuel Guallpa
Very yummy
Alex Gerson
I have been to Tanma a couple of times now and it has been a delicious, fun experience both times. The proprietor is extremely friendly and excited to share her enthusiasm with diners. It’s not the fastest meal and it’s not a huge space, but you can taste the passion she has for her craft in every bite. The ramen and gyoza are really special, and even the vegan ramen was complex and flavorful. If you’re in the mood to be left alone for a quick and quiet meal, this might not be the spot for you, but if you want delicious food and want to learn a bit about its production and how to eat it in the real Japanese way, this is your spot.
Oh, and definitely make a reservation!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
GFGoldenLady
This was a cool gem to find! There vegan options are limited, especially if like me, you're gluten free.
However it was very tasty, made with excellent ingredients and put together so well.
I didn't ask, but it totally had a family run business vibe from the man who seated us, to the lady who took our orders and then gave us a short presentation on how to eat Ramen and enjoy it to the fullest the way they had intended.
Will definitely be back!
David Snow
Unbelievable. Youko Yamamoto is a treasure for New York State! We got into the restaurant late and Youko showed the incredible standard of Japanese hospitality in making suggestions, sharing how to consume her ramen and in the actual ramen itself. Her family recipe of Miso ramen was delicious, as were the gyoza. Makiri Sake was a perfect addition. Just fabulous and having been to Japan many times, it’s really special to experience this here in the US. Thank you Youko!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Denney Pham
Tanma ramen is a wonderful gem of a restaurant. Unbelievably delicious ramen, incredibly generous service, and a comfortingly warm atmosphere.
If you’re even considering going here, think no further… your belly and heart will leave feeling full, replenished, and happy.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Hyde A
You will not forget this ramen.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Peter Swiderski
let's just be clear here. the best ramen i have ever had. the broth is something i couldn't forget or stop craving. the proprietor was gracious and lovely and taught me how to properly eat it. (who knew?). go, and if for dinner, make reservations.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Miso Ramen, Green Tea Ice Cream
Tess Casey
The best noodles around ,so delicious broth that one can dream of . Tiny restaurent sit at the counter and enjoy the authenticity of a real kitchen cooking real food from scratch.
I was unsure whether I’d like their miso ramen as I generally find pork and red meat too heavy for my tastes, but the broth was unbelievably rich and flavorful and light. The owners clearly put a lot of care into making it and it shows. The restaurant itself also has a very cute, cozy vibe. Very much worth the visit.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Miso Ramen
Elizabeth verdichizzi
Wonderful experience, loved the staff, food excellent, will definitely be back
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Carmela Tal Baron
I have not been there yet
Would like to try
Where are you located in Kingston
Thanks
Diana Arellano-Gonzalez
heads up on ordering the avocado sashimi. it’s straight up half of a avocado for $9. i don’t know what i was expecting 😆 ramen is ok- nothing to write home about.
Jacqueline Lieske
Ordered take out and got less than a shot glass worth of dashi, and only half of the ramen toppings. The dashi itself was flavorless, and required my adding a ton of soy sauce and sashimi.
A superb little ramen joint where the owner’s passion for both the craft of ramen-making and the ritual of eating it really shines through. The broth is excellent in both the Miso and Kuro ramen; the Kuro in particular was a standout, especially paired with the house-made gyoza. The kimchi tasted fresh, and it was great to see real wakame used rather than a shortcut substitute.
The wait staff is a bit inexperienced, and the restaurant layout is awkward. Reservations are apparently recommended, and this isn’t a place to visit if you’re in a rush. Still, those minor drawbacks are easy to overlook given the quality of the food. You’d have to drive into NYC to get better ramen. Highly recommended.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 5
Service: 4
I went into Tanma Ramen Tavern with pretty low expectations, not because of the place itself, but because Kingston is a small town and Japanese food options are limited. When I first saw “healthiest noodles” on the sign, I was honestly skeptical. But after reading the menu and the website, I could immediately tell this place was different from your typical chain ramen or “Asian fusion” spot.
You can feel the owner Youko’s care in everything. From the thought she put into the website to the way the menu is written and explained, it’s clear that this place is personal. When I walked in, I was greeted warmly, and even while folding dumplings, Youko still took the time to talk and explain the food.
I saw some reviews saying the staff is “too instructive” about how to eat the ramen. Personally? I didn’t find it offensive at all. I found it thoughtful. They’re not telling you what to do for fun, they care about how their food is experienced. They want you to taste it the way they created it. That’s rare.
The miso ramen and gyoza ramen were hands down the best I’ve ever had. I’ve eaten ramen everywhere, and this one shocked me. The flavors from the kombu, seaweed, kimchi, minced pork, and vinegar were so balanced and intentional. I loved how Youko explained to taste different parts of the ramen separately so you can experience each layer of flavor the way she designed it, instead of mixing everything together. It changed the whole experience.
I did think the sui gyoza dipping broth was more sour than expected at first, but honestly, that’s probably me coming from a Chinese background where dumplings are commonly dipped in vinegar anyway. Once I thought about it that way, it made perfect sense.
This is not a fast-food ramen place. If you want miso ramen, you should reserve. If you want extra chashu, call ahead. They make limited quantities because the food is curated, not mass-produced. It actually feels like a real neighborhood ramen shop, not just somewhere you rush in and out of.
I finished every drop of my soup. That says everything.
If I ever come back to Kingston, Tanma will be the first place I visit. Also, fun fact: “Tanma” means “time out.” Honestly, that fits perfectly. This place feels like hitting pause on the world for a bowl of something real.
p.s. バルタン星人 thought he sneaky😅
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Miso Ramen
Very yummy
I have been to Tanma a couple of times now and it has been a delicious, fun experience both times. The proprietor is extremely friendly and excited to share her enthusiasm with diners. It’s not the fastest meal and it’s not a huge space, but you can taste the passion she has for her craft in every bite. The ramen and gyoza are really special, and even the vegan ramen was complex and flavorful. If you’re in the mood to be left alone for a quick and quiet meal, this might not be the spot for you, but if you want delicious food and want to learn a bit about its production and how to eat it in the real Japanese way, this is your spot.
Oh, and definitely make a reservation!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
This was a cool gem to find! There vegan options are limited, especially if like me, you're gluten free. However it was very tasty, made with excellent ingredients and put together so well. I didn't ask, but it totally had a family run business vibe from the man who seated us, to the lady who took our orders and then gave us a short presentation on how to eat Ramen and enjoy it to the fullest the way they had intended. Will definitely be back!
Unbelievable. Youko Yamamoto is a treasure for New York State! We got into the restaurant late and Youko showed the incredible standard of Japanese hospitality in making suggestions, sharing how to consume her ramen and in the actual ramen itself. Her family recipe of Miso ramen was delicious, as were the gyoza. Makiri Sake was a perfect addition. Just fabulous and having been to Japan many times, it’s really special to experience this here in the US. Thank you Youko!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Tanma ramen is a wonderful gem of a restaurant. Unbelievably delicious ramen, incredibly generous service, and a comfortingly warm atmosphere.
If you’re even considering going here, think no further… your belly and heart will leave feeling full, replenished, and happy.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
You will not forget this ramen.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
let's just be clear here. the best ramen i have ever had. the broth is something i couldn't forget or stop craving. the proprietor was gracious and lovely and taught me how to properly eat it. (who knew?). go, and if for dinner, make reservations.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Miso Ramen, Green Tea Ice Cream
The best noodles around ,so delicious broth that one can dream of . Tiny restaurent sit at the counter and enjoy the authenticity of a real kitchen cooking real food from scratch.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Restaurantji Recommends
I was unsure whether I’d like their miso ramen as I generally find pork and red meat too heavy for my tastes, but the broth was unbelievably rich and flavorful and light. The owners clearly put a lot of care into making it and it shows. The restaurant itself also has a very cute, cozy vibe. Very much worth the visit.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Miso Ramen
Wonderful experience, loved the staff, food excellent, will definitely be back
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
I have not been there yet Would like to try Where are you located in Kingston Thanks
heads up on ordering the avocado sashimi. it’s straight up half of a avocado for $9. i don’t know what i was expecting 😆 ramen is ok- nothing to write home about.
Ordered take out and got less than a shot glass worth of dashi, and only half of the ramen toppings. The dashi itself was flavorless, and required my adding a ton of soy sauce and sashimi.
Food: 2
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