Yokato Yokabai

The story

Yokato Yokabai | Michelin-Recommended Ramen in Montréal, QC

The Ramen That Earned Michelin’s Attention

A modest ramen shop on Drolet Street in the Plateau, Yokato Yokabai draws steady crowds for its carefully simmered broths and meticulously crafted noodles—a combination that earned it a spot in the Michelin Guide. The focus is on tonkotsu ramen, the milky, pork-based style from Japan’s Hakata region, made with organic ingredients and no preservatives or MSG. Every bowl starts with noodles made in-house daily, giving the ramen a texture and freshness that sets it apart.

What’s on the Bowl

The menu centers on a few core ramen styles. The classic Tonkotsu Ramen features a rich pork broth, while the Gomami Ramen adds depth with a sesame-based broth. For those seeking a lighter option, the Vegetarian Ramen uses a mushroom and seaweed base. A rotating Chef’s Special Ramen appears monthly, offering something new for regulars. Beyond the bowls, appetizers like takoyaki, deep-fried chicken, and chashu don round out the meal.

The Shop’s Approach

Yokato Yokabai keeps things straightforward. No reservations are taken—guests walk in, fill out a paper menu, and hand it to their server. The ramen is made to order, and the kitchen works behind a counter where diners can watch the action. The space is shared with izakaya Ichigo Ichie, creating a lively, casual atmosphere that suits the Plateau neighborhood. As one review on the site puts it, “On a cold Montreal day there’s nothing better than a big bowl of ramen, and Yokato Yokabai ladles out the best in the city.” That reputation, built on consistency and respect for ingredients, explains why the line often stretches out the door.