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    Oiistar

    4.2 (1.2k reviews)
    ModerateAsian Fusion, Ramen
    Closed 12:00 pm - 9:30 PM
    Updated over 3 months ago

    Oiistar Photos

    OIISTAR ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Casual
    Trendy
    Moderate noise
    Good for groups

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    Vegetable Ramen
    Nicole W.

    Oii! Im eating ramen over here! Oiistar has been in this location for years and it'll likely remain a favorite for more to come. We stopped in and had ~15 min wait, got seated at the bar. The inside is a bit dark, so you may need to pull out the phone flashlight. We tried the shrimp bun (pretty good, would recommend, the tempura was nice and I like the pickled) and the veggie ramen (it was great, a lot of food but was $19). We were able to split both items and be full, but if you're eating solo you can ask for to go containers. Overall, I like this ramen spot it definitely remains one of the favorites in this area.

    #3. PAITAN SHIO with FUKUOKA ROASTED GARLIC RAMEN w/ added ground pork
    Scott N.

    I was excited to get some ramen at Oiistar. It was Sunday and we arrived just before 5:30. For some reason we thought it would be a slow night, but boy howdy were we wrong! When we walked in there was already a line. I put in our name and received a "welcome to the waitlist" text at 5:27. I think they told me it would be 30 minutes. We went next store to peruse the art gallery. I got a text they were ready to seat us at 5:44 - a pretty quick turnaround. We were seated at the bar, which wasn't idea but beggars can't be choosers. Turns out they took great care of us. David started with a tempura shrimp bun. It looked wonderful. He didn't share any insights on the flavor, but he cleaned the plate! Two of us ordered #3, PAITAN SHIO with FUKUOKA ROASTED GARLIC RAMEN. I added ground pork to mine. David had the SPICY GARLIC SHOYUMEN. There was nothing I didn't love about my ramen. The ground pork was a delicious addition, providing a nice meaty flavor to every bite. I thought the pork belly was wonderful. Mark found it too fatty, but I think that's to be expected. I was nervous about the bamboo shoots, but my concerns were unfounded. The bamboo shoots were small, delicate and delectable. There are so many options, if we lived in the area we would come back often in order to taste all the options. If you love ramen and haven't been to Oiistar, do yourself a favor and check it out.

    Pork belly bun
    Nikhil D.

    This might be my new favorite ramen spot! As someone loyal to Gyuro Ramen for their rich gyukotsu broth, I wasn't expecting to be blown away, but Oiistar completely exceeded expectations. Umami Ramen - Absolutely incredible. The broth has this perfect umami depth that rivals the best tonkotsu I've had. Spice level 2 was spot-on, flavorful heat without overwhelming the complex miso base. The Berkshire pork belly literally melts in your mouth, and they're generous with both meat and broth portions. This is easily two meals worth of food and completely satisfying. Bao Buns: Berkshire Pork Belly Bun - This set the bar high and delivered. The pork belly is rich and flavorful (essentially the same as what's in the ramen), with great contrast from the cucumber and daikon sprout. The sweet sake soy reduction ties it all together beautifully. Must try. Tempura Shrimp Bun - Good but not memorable. The shrimp was well-battered but got lost under too much pickled fennel slaw. The Thai sweet chili mayo was nice, but wouldn't order again. Service was excellent - staff helped me pick my ramen and gave great recommendations. The atmosphere is perfect for a casual ramen experience, and thoughtful touches like having a proper coat rack show they care about the details. Highly recommend!

    Duck Breast Tempura Shrimp
    Anya J.

    Late Review This past spring I came here while I was pregnant craving ramen for the umpteenth time. I've ordered take out from Oiistar twice but never sat down to eat. Finally decided to and had the best server. He said he'd been working there for about 10 years and knew everything on the menu. Perfect timing for me as I was 8 months. We initially ordered the pork belly bao bun and one other I can't remember the name of. He accidentally sent out the shrimp bao bun and let us keep it (glad he did because it was best out of 3). For the ramen, I was looking for a specific item that wasn't on the menu anymore but he pointed out all I had to do was swap broths. Naturally, I don't remember the item but it was absolutely delicious. It's a fairly small restaurant so not expecting any upscale cocktails but I would have enjoyed a non-alcoholic beverage that wasn't a fountain drink. I ended up sticking with water. Did I mention my server was great? Loved my experience! Overall 8.5/10

    Allison K.

    Pretty solid spot for some ramen (4.5/5 stars)! My friend and I visited here on a Tuesday afternoon so thankfully there was a good amount of space for street parking. Right when we walked in, we were greeted by a very welcoming/friendly server who took us to our seat. I enjoyed how open and aired out the restaurant felt. The big windows also allowed so much natural lighting to come in which felt nice during lunch time. This is what my friend and I ordered: Tonkatsu Buns Umami (Spicy Level 2) Paitan Shio Fried Garlic Chicken Sambal Both ramens had a savory, rich broth which was very satisfying. The char shiu (pork belly) was an absolute star- so tender and flavorful (honestly the best I've had in a while). The portions are also pretty large too so I had to take my leftovers to go. The Tonkatsu Buns were good but nothing really special in my opinion. As for the fried garlic chicken, the flavor was spot on but the texture was okay- I wish it wasa tad bit crispier since the sauce made the exterior a little soft. Overall, my friend and I had a pleasant experience at Oiistar and we can't wait to come back and try more items from the menu!

    Berkshire por belly bun
    Andrés W.

    I met this restaurant on the 2019, after a long trip for work out of Chicag, it was one of those days that I came back on O'hare and didn't want to go home and cook. Looked for places for lunch and I was craving for ramen, Oiistar popped up on my screen and I decided to go over there. For 6 years this place has been consistent, the food just get better with time and it is amazing. Everytime a friend of mine suggest maybe they don't like ramen, or they know what is a good ramen, I would say immediately: Let me take you to this place and we talk later about a good ramen. Everytime, I order the Bershire pork buns and the oiimen ramen for my friends to try, and they always love how sweet and tender is the meat (you can tell it is berkshire pork for sure), the soup is always on point and the noodled is amazing! The waiter always make sure that we have everything we need and that my friends always have the pleasure to enjoy a good ramen (even in the busiest days they had been really nice). The best thing, they have a patio for summer and music is not too loud, you can easily eat, talk and enjoy with your friends anytime.

    Inna Y.

    Delicious ramen with the most flavorful and rich broth! I always drop by Oiistar when I'm in Chicago because it has never failed me. As someone who lives in Asia, ramen is not new to me. Still, Oiistar takes the cake when it comes to ramen here in the US. I have tried another ramen place in Wicker Park (that already closed) and it cannot compare to the flavors of Oiistar ramen. Servings were generous. The pork belly was melt-in-your-mouth tender. Service was quick and efficient. Overall, I always have a great time in Oiistar.

    Reshma A.

    I called ahead on a Friday night to ask about the wait and the girl on the phone was so sweet. When I got there, the wait was about twenty minutes, which was not bad at all for a packed restaurant. The waiter, however, was not the nicest and the overall vibe from him felt a bit rude, even though he did not explicitly say anything. The food itself was honestly a big disappointment given all the hype. The garlic chicken was decent and surprisingly more flavorful than the ramen. Both ramen dishes lacked depth and flavor. They did have a nice creamy texture and generous portions, but overall there are definitely better ramen spots in the city.

    Black Garlic Ramen
    Alan H.

    A classic ramen spot that hits the spot with zero frills. The garlic ramen was very flavorful but it definitely could use more garlic since it is in the name. The fried chicken was exceptional and unique with its thin but crispy crust. It was doused in a sweet sauce but spicy can be opted for. Highly recommend both when you visit. Great atmosphere to bring a group of friends to socialize over ramen. The servers were attentive even when it was super busy. I'd come back next time I'm in Chicago.

    Pork Bun
    Uche N.

    Wonderful time at Oiistar. We were able to sit outside quickly and our waiter came and greeted up promptly. The pork bun is PHENOMENAL. Absolutely worth the hype. The ramen is generous in portions with ample to take home. Wicker park fest was going in the background but still wasn't too loud. We weren't super packed with other tables which made for a comfortable environment. Looking forward to returning.

    Gregory F.

    My mom and I were looking for something reliably delicious and we found it here! Generous helpings for fairly affordable cost for a big city ramen spot (took plenty home for leftovers) - service was attentive and the interior of this place is pretty sleek/modern and appealing.

    Amy D.

    INSANE NOODS. Oiistar is seriously everything I hoped it would be and more. The fatty broth in their ramen is magical and the pork within is practically melting into the bowl (in the best way). I've heard so many great things about this spot, and it completely lives up to the hype. Even though the atmosphere lacks a bit, I'll keep coming back regardless. If you're a ramen lover in Wicker, you need to try Oiistar. -AT

    Umami
    Blake B.

    I really was looking forward to this and went back and forth on my review but after comparing it to several other ramen spots in the area including value, quality and ambiance this just falls short. If you have no other options then why not, but I wouldn't come back due to there being nothing worth coming back for. The veggie ramen was a waste of space on the menu and severely lacking flavor. They drinks were okay but nothing spectacular or unique. I will say the staff was friendly and attentive.

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    RAMEN-SAN

    RAMEN-SAN

    4.0
    (3.3k reviews)
    2.5 mi
    $$

    I had a quick work trip to Chicago and came across this ramen spot since it was near the hotel I…read morewas staying in. I stopped by around 2pm, and the restaurant was a bit empty. The decor in here was nice and the dessert and cocktail menus were SO CUTE! I tried the 10 Hour Tonkotsu ramen, the xoxo shrimp and pork dumplings, and the spicy kimchi. The kimchi and dumpling combination was to die for!!! It had the perfect balance of flavor and spice. The dumplings were so crispy and juicy, and the kimchi was packed with lots of flavor. 10000/10 The ramen on the other hand, was just okay in my opinion. I asked if they could make it a bit spicy and the waiter said that the only way to add spicy was to order the sesame chili. I ordered that and mixed it into my ramen but it was still missing something, not quite sure what. I'd rate the ramen a 8/10. Nothing crazy but not bad. Overall would stop by again (if im in the area) to try other items on their menu. 9/10

    Watery Ramen with basic flavors. This was the most disappointing tonkotsu Ramen I have had…read more The shrimp dish was decent, but overly sweet. Gyoza was supple and delicious, however, the Ramen had lost the battle by this point. The basil old-fashioned was a nice turn on the traditional drink, but not as flavorful enough. Prompt service and lively ambience.

    Photos
    Chili oil, low sodium soy sauce, chili flakes and furikake on each table
    Chili oil, low sodium soy sauce, chili flakes and furikake on each table
    Express lunch
    Express lunch
    Honey fried Shrimp

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    Honey fried Shrimp
    Ramen Wasabi

    Ramen Wasabi

    4.2
    (2.3k reviews)
    1.3 mi
    $$

    I love Wasabi Ramen. Stopped in for a late lunch and was greeted with the familiar smell and…read morescenery. Had the tonkotsu with spice umami (it's always a hit), the sesame mai tai, and my husband had the spicy chicken paitan ramen and naked & famous. I was surprised at how tasty his ramen was! I may get it next time as it was as (if not more?!) delicious than my tonkotsu! I can't wait for next time.. this place has held up for years and I'm extremely confident it will continue to do so for many more.

    A great spot to grab a bowl of steaming ramen on a rainy Sunday afternoon in Chicago. Note they…read moreclose sharply @3pm probably for a lunch break for the staff. The Alaskan cod sandwich was served on a bed of cabbage covered in a sweet teriyaki & brown mustard sauce with maybe a squeeze of kewpie sprinkled in between. The Berkshire pork eggrolls had microgreens & shaved radish on top of a crema type of sauce that balanced the heat of the kimchi nicely!! For the main attraction I ordered the spicy garlic ramen that was such a delightful mouth experience it really hit all the taste buds! The noodles were perfectly bouncy with the right amount of chew. The jellied egg was perfect and rounded the soup very well! The red chili threads enhanced the spicy miso broth just enough to slurp all the delicious goodness down! My husband ordered the Sapporo miso soup which had more of a creamy type of broth vs the spicy garlic. The noodles were also thinner than regular ramen & had a bouncy springy texture that just hit the spot! Since it was kinda chilly outside we also ordered hot green tea to accompany our spectacular ramen dishes. This place also offers delicious seasonal cocktails on the menu or hot sake if that's what you are hankering for. Definitely try this ramen joint if you are in the Logan square area your tummy will be so happy that you did!!

    Photos
    Spicy Roasted Garlic Miso Ramen
    Spicy Roasted Garlic Miso Ramen
    Inside
    Inside
    Tokyo Spicy Wings Small Plate

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    Tokyo Spicy Wings Small Plate
    Kyuramen - Downtown Chicago

    Kyuramen - Downtown Chicago

    4.2
    (625 reviews)
    2.5 mi
    $$

    First time having Ramen and we LOVED it…read more The seating is very unique and private. We will be eating there again.

    Came here as it was close to where I was staying downtown. I went on a Sunday and there were only 6…read morecustomers in the restaurant at 545pm. I was seated at a table and they brought out water right away. But that's where the service stopped. I was handed 3 menus... food, drinks, cocktail. It took forever to get one of the servers to come over and take my order. They were all huddled by the kitchen and hostess stand chatting with each other and on their cell phones. Finally one of them walked by my table and I had to get her attention and told her I would like to order. She brought out the iPad then looked around seeing if someone else should probably take the order. I felt I inconvenienced her. Got the tonkatsu shoyu ramen with black garlic and the takoyaki. Food came out fast. Takoyaki after the ramen but the takoyaki was delicious. Soft and creamy on the inside with the octopus was very tender. It was topped with plenty of katsuoboshi. Ramen was another story. Noodles had a really good chew as they advertised using sun noodle company. However the broth tasted very watered down and did not have the rich flavor and usually fat globules that make the soup. Cha siu was charred beautifully and portion size was good. Hopefully they can focus on the front of house service and the team can pay attention to customers. Maybe this is why there were only 6 customers at prime dinner time.

    Photos
    Honeycomb pods
    Honeycomb pods
    Matcha Pudding W. Red Bean
    Matcha Pudding W. Red Bean
    Thai Iced Tea

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    Thai Iced Tea
    Monster Ramen

    Monster Ramen

    4.3
    (189 reviews)
    2.4 mi
    $$

    I'm sitting here in my living room, mired by an early, uninvited awakening. It was not a thud. No…read morealarm. Just a gentle frazzle of sunlight stealing me from night. In no way had my body rested. Donned in dawn, my underwear-pajamas slightly slid down revealed a sad vision of man, sloppily tangled in ruffled sheets. Exposed. There is nothing pretty about me, I thought, as I pondered if the sunlight were judging what it saw. Before reaching my current perch on the living room couch, I sat in bed flicking through news in search of something good, but simultaneously only pausing on the bad. Glorifying in the doom, really. It was the pinch I needed to prove I was indeed awake. All day I seek the pinch of pain to prove I am not dreaming. Coffee, cats, clothes, splashof water, and 20 steps later I find myself in the planning pose, here in the living room. The planning pose is very much like the wake-startle, sans the sheets and exposed crack. It involves me laying here on the couch actually reading the articles I perused earlier. I like to rationalize that the information gleaned is to set me up for a day of human interaction. Perhaps it is a study session to get up to human-social-speed. Right now it is dawning on me -- my second uninvited dawn of the day -- that perhaps behavior isn't responsible humanity, it is prolonged self torment. The tighter pinch. The proverbial purple nurple of challenging my awakened state. Cats gather around me. One at my feet and the other curled beside my thigh. Am I king to them? They are fed. Surely they are not here in need of something. Have I done something to warrant this attention? My affection toward them is inconsistent. It ebbs in startling fits of overly attentive playing or petting followed by long droughts of disregard. My ambivalence as their king gives me this luxury, and supports my theory that they may think I am indeed king. This is the type of cyclical example loop I am using as evidence to propel me from the underwear'ed fat man the sun observed moments ago. Evidence that says: "See, Sun, I am more than the larva you spotlighted. I am a god! The cats are evidence! And they sleep in your sun-puddles in undisputed, recognizable perfection, not the ugly crack-exposed heap you found me in. You love them. They love me. So, pinch yourself, and stop judging me!" Obviously the coffee is working, or maybe the cats are doing their trick: making me feel accepted in the universe. Whatever the case may be, I pet my cat. Dander floats into the sun's beams and crystallizes in the air. If you've ever seen dust in a thinly sliced light beam at dawn you know: Hope is the accidental luck of shadows bouncing off of the chaos but always cutting through. Always meeting a surface. Penetrating the thickest of atmospheres and colliding on flowers and alleys, on well planned solar panels, on potholes, through any crack, on my crack, projecting obtuse triangles, acute bi-angles, and isosceles quad-tangles, even while penetrating deep into the sea, revealing all the magnificent details of art, and occasionally falling on me. Trees bend to it. I give the cat closest a good scratch behind the ear and look out the window at the trees greening in spring. A dog walker pauses to pick up excrement. A squirrel cowers behind a branch. The ramen restaurant on the corner is cut through by light warming empty tables; tables preparing to slurp up hungry, hopeful lunchers into the belly of contentment. Dark, seemingly an antagonist to light's hero demeanor, sheepishly slinks away, humbly realizing it is not the opposite of light, but the absence. "Beautiful," I think as I see the spicy broth of life warming in the sun glow beyond the glass. Yes. It is beautiful. It really is. I couldn't see how much in the dark but the rhythm out the window is now clear. I turn to my cat, who is winding down a purr. We share a slow-blink gaze at one another as the last sliver of dawn is replaced with shadow in my house. He moves to the window sill to soak in every second as it departs. "Welp, buddy. Nothing left now. Time to bend to the light"

    Was very excited to try this place since I've heard a lot of good things. We had a reservation so…read morewe were seated pretty quickly but since the restaurant was small, we were placed at a 4-person table where me and my friend had to sit next to 2 random strangers which I wasn't really a fan of. Our server was very nice and attentive though, we knew what we wanted so we placed our order and received our food quickly too. I enjoyed The Monster ramen that I got, the broth was super flavorful and perfectly creamy. I loved the beef jam and Wagyu chashu, Although, I will say the noodles themselves didn't really stand out. I enjoyed my ramen but I'm not sure I would get it again. I would definitely come back to try their other ramen though.

    Photos
    Seating
    Seating
    Miso Wagyu
    Miso Wagyu
    Menu as of 9.20.25

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    Menu as of 9.20.25

    Oiistar - asianfusion - Updated June 2026

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