Shujinko Melbourne: Tonkotsu Ramen and Dipping Noodles on Russell Street

Would you choose pork-bone ramen, a bonito-infused broth or thick noodles dipped into a separate bowl of soup?

If you’re searching for ramen in Melbourne CBD, Shujinko on Russell Street offers several directions to explore. Its official website highlights a 12-hour pork-bone broth, with options ranging from signature tonkotsu to spicy bowls and tsukemen dipping noodles.

For the fifth instalment of this Melbourne Japanese food series, we’re moving from sandwiches to a sit-down noodle stop near Chinatown.

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Start with Shujinko Tonkotsu Ramen

The signature Shujinko Tonkotsu Ramen combines pork-bone broth with aburi pork belly, marinated egg, bean shoots, scallion, black fungus and seaweed.

For a first visit, this would be a useful starting point. Try the broth before mixing everything together, then taste it again alongside the noodles and toppings. That gives you a better sense of what each element contributes.

If you’re comparing tonkotsu ramen in Melbourne, pay attention to the broth’s texture, seasoning and how well it coats the noodles. Those details will tell you more than a photograph alone.

Black Ramen for Bonito and Pork-Broth Flavours

Shujinko describes its Black Ramen as a combination of bonito and tonkotsu, with a smoky, seafood-forward character.

This is an option to investigate if you enjoy seafood flavours in your ramen. For two people willing to share tastes, ordering the signature tonkotsu and Black Ramen would create a straightforward comparison between the broths.

Despite its name, don’t assume it is a black-garlic ramen—the restaurant’s published description specifically highlights bonito.

Tsukemen: Dip the Noodles Yourself

For a different way to eat ramen, the website lists tsukemen, with thick noodles served alongside a concentrated pork-and-seafood dipping broth.

If you’re looking for tsukemen in Melbourne, this is a candidate to add to your list. Dip a manageable portion of noodles at a time and explore how much broth you prefer with each bite.

It also gives a dining companion something different to order while you try a conventional soup ramen.

Prefer Something Spicy?

The published selection includes Kara-Kuchi Ramen, which adds a spice blend to tonkotsu, and Volcano Ramen, described as the restaurant’s spiciest bowl. Pork Miso Ramen is another listed option.

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Ask the staff about spice levels before choosing. If your tolerance is low, the signature tonkotsu is a more sensible starting point than selecting a bowl for its dramatic name.

A Ramen Stop Near Melbourne’s Chinatown

Shujinko’s Russell Street branch is located at 225 Russell Street, between Little Bourke and Lonsdale streets.

The restaurant describes an open kitchen, counter seating and approximately 40 seats. It operates on a walk-in basis without reservations.

For a Japanese restaurant in Melbourne CBD, that makes it an option to work into a city outing. Allow some flexibility around your meal, particularly if you’re visiting with a group.

Shujinko Russell Street Opening Hours

The branch’s official page currently lists:

Days	Listed hours
Monday–Thursday	11am–midnight
Friday–Saturday	11am–4am the following morning
Sunday	11am–midnight

These are branch-specific published hours. Confirm current trading and last-order times directly before making a late-night trip.

📍 Address: 225 Russell Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
🌐 Website: Shujinko Russell Street

Which Bowl Would You Choose?

Start with the signature tonkotsu if you want to explore the restaurant’s core offering. Consider Black Ramen for bonito flavours, or tsukemen if you prefer dipping your noodles.

Whether you’re planning lunch near Chinatown or searching for late-night ramen in Melbourne, save the Russell Street branch’s details—and check the hours before heading over.