Keisuke Bugis: The Japanese Restaurant, Signature Dishes & Best Time to Visit
Have you ever walked past a place and smelled something so good that it pulled you in instantly? That’s exactly what happened to me at Keisuke Bugis. I was wandering through the streets of Bugis when a rich, porky aroma of simmering broth caught my attention. I followed it, curious, and noticed a quiet but determined queue forming outside.
Through the glass, I could see steam rising, chefs moving with purpose, and the intimate, no-frills vibe of a true Japanese ramen shop. The neighborhood hummed around me hawkers calling, shoppers strolling, and the faint chatter from nearby cafés but inside, everything felt focused on the bowls being crafted with care.
I hesitated for a moment and thought,
“Is it really worth the wait?”
Then the aroma won. It always does. That first visit showed me that in Bugis, some food experiences are simply unforgettable and this ramen spot is one of them.
Before I even lifted my chopsticks, I already knew Keisuke Ramen wasn’t just another ramen name floating around Singapore. The brand was founded by Chef Keisuke Takeda, a Japanese chef who built his reputation on one thing: deeply rich, unapologetic ramen broths. The kind that take hours of patience, bones, and belief. His ramen is known for staying true to Japanese roots bold flavours, creamy tonkotsu bases, and no shortcuts.
Over the years, Keisuke Ramen has become a familiar and trusted name for ramen lovers in Singapore, especially for those who crave authentic Japanese flavours rather than lighter, toned-down versions.
The Keisuke Ramen Bugis outlet carries that same spirit compact, focused, and always busy.
Address: 158 Rochor Rd, Singapore 188433
Nearest MRT: Bugis MRT (about a 5–7 minute walk)
Opening Hours:
| Monday | 11:30 am–2 pm, 5–10 pm |
| Tuesday | 11:30 am–2 pm, 5–10 pm |
| Wednesday | 11:30 am–2 pm, 5–10 pm |
| Thursday | 11:30 am–2 pm, 5–10 pm |
| Friday | 11:30 am–2 pm, 5–10 pm |
| Saturday | 11:30 am–9:30 pm |
| Sunday | 11:30 am–9:30 pm |
Cuisine: Japanese Ramen
Why is this Bugis outlet so popular?
- Rich tonkotsu-style broth that’s creamy and pork-forward
- Generous portions that actually leave you full
- A strong sense of Japanese authenticity, from flavours to service
It’s the kind of place that doesn’t try to impress it just lets the ramen do the talking.
Where Exactly Is Keisuke Bugis Located?
Keisuke Ramen Bugis sits along Middle Road, right in the heart of the Bugis area, and it’s surprisingly easy to spot once you know what to look for. It’s a street-facing, ground-floor outlet, not hidden inside a mall, which makes that rich broth aroma hard to miss. From Bugis MRT, take Exit B and walk towards Bugis Junction once you reach the Middle Road side, keep an eye out for the small ramen shop with a steady queue outside. It’s close to Bugis Junction’s Middle Road entrance and just a short walk from Bugis Street, making it a natural food stop between shopping breaks.
My Personal Visit & First Impressions
I visited Keisuke Ramen Bugis during lunch hour, when Bugis is buzzing and everyone seems to be chasing their next meal. The crowd was a mix of nearby office workers, students, and a few curious tourists, all moving with the same goal. The moment I stepped closer, the smell of simmering pork broth hit first rich, comforting, impossible to ignore followed by the gentle clatter of bowls and the low hum of the kitchen at work. The staff were efficient but warm, and when I took my first bite, the broth was thick, creamy, and deeply savoury. I knew instantly why people queue.
Keisuke Bugis Menu
To make your visit to Keisuke Ramen Bugis easier, I’ve put together the full menu for you. From the iconic Tonkotsu Ramen to seasonal specials, set meals, sides, drinks, and desserts, everything is here in one place. Whether you’re planning a solo lunch, a cozy dinner, or just craving the richest ramen in Bugis, this guide will help you decide what to order before you even step inside.
Tonkotsu Ramen Seasonal Specials
The Tonkotsu Ramen here is the heart of Keisuke creamy, rich pork broth that hugs every noodle perfectly. Each season adds a slight twist in toppings and flavours. I personally love the Spring Special for its full toppings it feels indulgent without going overboard.
| Ramen | Price (SGD) | Notes |
| Tonkotsu Ramen Winter | $11.90 | Lightest, good for first-timers |
| Tonkotsu Ramen Winter + Seaweed | $12.90 | Adds umami depth |
| Tonkotsu Ramen Winter + Flavored Egg | $13.90 | Richer, egg lovers’ pick |
| Tonkotsu Ramen Winter Special | $16.90 | All toppings, indulgent |
| Tonkotsu Ramen Spring | $12.90 | Balanced, creamy |
| Tonkotsu Ramen Spring + Seaweed | $13.90 | Extra flavor |
| Tonkotsu Ramen Spring + Flavored Egg | $14.90 | Comforting, eggy |
| Tonkotsu Ramen Spring Special | $17.90 | All toppings, ultimate |
| Tonkotsu Ramen Summer | $13.90 | Slightly bolder, full-bodied |
| Tonkotsu Ramen Summer + Seaweed | $14.90 | Umami boost |
| Tonkotsu Ramen Summer + Flavored Egg | $15.90 | Rich, savory |
| Tonkotsu Ramen Summer Special | $18.90 | All toppings, festive bowl |
| Tonkotsu Ramen Autumn | $13.90 | Deep flavour, comforting |
| Tonkotsu Ramen Autumn + Seaweed | $14.90 | Classic umami |
| Tonkotsu Ramen Autumn + Flavored Egg | $15.90 | Eggy richness |
| Tonkotsu Ramen Autumn Special | $18.90 | All toppings, hearty |
| Tonkotsu King Ramen | $13.90 | Extra pork, filling |
| Tonkotsu King + Seaweed | $14.90 | Extra umami |
| Tonkotsu King + Flavored Egg | $15.90 | Rich & savory |
| Tonkotsu King Special | $18.90 | All toppings, ultimate feast |
Side Menu
For a little extra indulgence, or if you’re sharing:
| Item | Price (SGD) | Notes |
| Rice | $3.00 | Simple, perfect with broth |
| Fried Rice | $9.00 | Comforting, filling |
| Chashu Rice | $7.00 | Pork lovers’ dream |
Drinks
I always pair my ramen with something refreshing. The Japanese-style sodas here are playful and surprisingly cleansing against rich broth.
| Drink | Price (SGD) |
| Green Tea Cola | $3.00 |
| Sakura Cola | $3.00 |
| Yuzu Cola | $3.00 |
| Wasabi Ginger Ale | $3.00 |
| Coca Cola / Light | $3.00 |
| Sprite | $3.00 |
| Green Tea [Hot/Cold] | $3.00 (Refillable) |
| Oolong Tea | $3.00 |
| Sapporo Beer (330ml) | $8.50 |
Dessert
To finish on a clean, citrusy note:
| Dessert | Price (SGD) |
| Yuzu Sherbet | $4.00 |
This menu is all about choices that match your appetite. Whether it’s a light Winter Tonkotsu for a quick lunch or the Spring Special with all toppings for a celebratory feast, Keisuke Ramen Bugis delivers flavour, portion, and authentic Japanese experience every single time.
Best Dishes to Order
If you’re visiting Keisuke Ramen Bugis for the first time, let me save you some guesswork here are my top picks that never fail to impress:
- Signature Tonkotsu Ramen – The richest, creamiest pork broth that defines Keisuke; every slurp is pure umami heaven.
- Spicy Ramen – Perfect if you love a little heat to cut through the creamy broth; warming and flavorful without overwhelming.
- Deluxe Ramen (Special / All Toppings) – For those who want the full experience: pork, egg, seaweed, and all the extras; best value for a hearty meal.
- Extra Noodles Add-on – Because one bowl sometimes just isn’t enough; the most filling way to make your ramen experience last.
Personally, I usually go for the Spring Special with extra noodles it’s indulgent, satisfying, and gives you that
“I came, I slurped, I conquered” feeling.
How Does the Food Taste?
From the first spoonful, Keisuke Ramen Bugis makes no compromises. The broth is rich, creamy, and bursting with umami, a full-bodied hug of pork flavor that hits deeper than your typical Japanese ramen in Singapore. Unlike lighter, watered-down versions you sometimes find, this is seriously pork-forward every sip tastes like it’s been simmering for hours, with layers of savoury depth that linger pleasantly on the palate.
If you like a little fire with your broth, the spicy ramen options are perfectly balanced. They bring warmth and a gentle kick without overpowering the creamy tonkotsu base.
As for authenticity, Keisuke strikes a careful balance. The ramen stays true to Japanese roots thick, umami-rich broth, firm noodles, and quality toppings yet the portion sizes and subtle tweaks cater to the Singaporean appetite. It’s the kind of ramen that makes you feel both at home and transported to a tiny shop in Japan, all in one satisfying bowl.
Dietary Options
I always like to be upfront about this Keisuke Ramen Bugis is a pork lover’s paradise, not a halal-friendly spot. Every tonkotsu broth is pork-based, and the kitchen is pork-heavy, so if you have dietary restrictions, it’s important to plan accordingly.
For vegetarians, options are limited. There aren’t dedicated vegetarian broths, but you can find egg-based dishes or side items like rice or certain drinks that work for a lighter alternative.
Here’s a quick rundown:
- Not halal – all broths are pork-based
- Limited vegetarian options – mostly sides, no full vegetarian ramen
- Egg-based options / side items – flavoured eggs, plain rice, or some drinks
- Pork-heavy kitchen – cross-contact is unavoidable
So while this isn’t the spot for everyone, for those who embrace pork-rich ramen, it’s one of the richest, most authentic experiences you’ll find in Bugis.
Portion Size & Value for Money
At Keisuke Ramen Bugis, one bowl is usually enough the portions are generous and very filling, especially the Special or King Ramen with all toppings. The noodles, rich broth, and toppings create a hearty meal, and extras like additional noodles or rice sides make it even more satisfying. Compared to other ramen spots in Bugis, Keisuke offers excellent value for money: authentic, rich, and filling bowls without skimping on flavour or ingredients.
Seating, Waiting Time & Reservations
Keisuke Ramen Bugis keeps things simple and focused, so all seating is indoors. The space is cozy, with a mix of counter seating facing the kitchen and a few small tables perfect if you enjoy watching the chefs in action while slurping your noodles. There’s no outdoor dining here, which makes the aroma of simmering broth even more inviting.
During peak hours, especially lunchtime on weekdays or dinner around 6–8 PM, expect a wait of 15–30 minutes, sometimes a bit longer if you hit the office crowd rush. Keisuke operates on a walk-in only basis, with no reservations, so it’s all about timing your visit wisely. The queue system is straightforward you line up, get a menu to peruse while waiting, and staff call you in as seats free up. Honestly, the short wait is worth it once that first creamy, porky bowl lands in front of you. If you want to discover more must-try Japanese restaurants and dishes around the area, check out my complete guide to Bugis Japanese Food guide.
Is Keisuke Bugis Good for Groups & Families?
Keisuke Ramen Bugis is cozy and intimate, which works beautifully for solo diners or pairs, but can feel snug for larger groups. The counter and small table seating are comfortable enough for quick meals, but don’t expect spacious family-style arrangements. Noise levels are moderate the hum of the kitchen, clattering bowls, and quiet chatter create a lively but not overwhelming atmosphere.
It’s not particularly kids-focused; the menu is heavy on pork broth and spicy options, so younger children might have limited choices. I’d recommend visiting with 2–4 people max for the most comfortable experience. Groups larger than four may find it a tight squeeze, but the ramen is worth it for anyone craving authentic Bugis tonkotsu.
Ordering, Takeaway & Delivery Options
Keisuke Ramen Bugis is designed for dine-in experiences nothing beats slurping a steaming bowl right at the counter while watching the chefs at work. That said, takeaway is available, perfect if you want to enjoy the ramen at home or at the office. Some delivery platforms like Foodpanda and GrabFood carry a limited selection, but I personally recommend dining in for your first visit. The aroma, the heat, the sound of the kitchen it all adds to the experience that a delivery box simply can’t replicate. For first-timers, nothing beats a warm, freshly served bowl straight from the kitchen.
Best Time to Visit
From my experience, timing your visit makes a huge difference in comfort and wait times. Here’s a quick guide:
| Time | Experience |
| Lunch (12–2 PM) | Very busy, mostly office crowd — expect a wait |
| Afternoon | Shorter wait, more relaxed vibe |
| Dinner (6–8 PM) | Peak crowd again, lively but bustling |
| Late evening | Calm, quick seating, perfect for a quieter ramen fix |
Pro tip: If you want to avoid long queues, weekdays are definitely better than weekends. Personally, I love popping in late evening the broth smells just as divine, but you can enjoy it at your own pace without the rush.
Deals, Promotions & Value Sets
Keisuke Bugis keeps things simple but value-focused, especially if you love trying more than one item without breaking the bank.
- Set Meals: Some ramen options come with rice or side dishes, making them a filling and balanced meal. For first-timers, these are a smart choice to taste multiple flavours without overordering.
- Seasonal Ramen: Each season brings special tonkotsu variations Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter specials often including extra toppings like flavoured eggs or seaweed. These are perfect if you want a more indulgent experience.
- Add-on Value Deals: Want to make your bowl extra satisfying? Extras like additional noodles or chashu rice add volume and value, letting you customise your meal without paying full price for another bowl.
I personally always go for a Seasonal Special with extra noodles it’s indulgence done right.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
If it’s your first visit to Keisuke Bugis, here’s how to make it a smooth, delicious experience:
- What to order first: Go for the Signature Tonkotsu Ramen or a Seasonal Special — it’s the perfect introduction to their rich, creamy broth.
- Customizing spice & noodles: Don’t be shy you can adjust the spice level and choose noodle firmness to match your preference.
- Best time to avoid queues: Arrive late afternoon or late evening on weekdays for shorter waits.
- Getting the best value: Opt for Special ramen with extra noodles or set meals with sides, giving you a hearty, indulgent bowl without overordering.
Trust me follow these tips, and your first bowl will feel like a warm hug in Bugis
People Also Ask
What is Keisuke Bugis famous for?
Rich, creamy tonkotsu ramen with authentic Japanese flavours.
Where is Keisuke Bugis located?
On Middle Road, near Bugis Junction and Bugis MRT Exit B.
Is Keisuke Ramen Bugis halal?
No — all broths are pork-based.
What is the best ramen to order?
Signature Tonkotsu or Seasonal Special for full flavour and toppings.
Is there usually a queue?
Yes, especially lunch and dinner peak hours; wait times vary 15–30 mins.
My Final Thoughts
My visit to Keisuke Bugis left me thoroughly satisfied the rich, creamy tonkotsu broth and hearty portions make it worth every penny. The taste easily matches, and even surpasses, the price, especially if you go for a Seasonal Special or add extra noodles. I would definitely return, whether for a solo lunch, a quick dinner, or a comforting ramen fix after exploring Bugis. This spot is perfect for ramen lovers, those seeking authentic Japanese flavours in Singapore, and anyone who appreciates a filling, flavour-packed bowl without fuss. Truly, it’s a little slice of Japan in Bugis.
