Kawa Ramen and Sushi 川ラーメンと寿司 | East Side in Milwaukee, WI
Savor top-rated ramen and sushi in Milwaukee’s East Side! Open daily (except Tuesday) from noon to 9 PM. Call or check online for updates.
If you’re craving real ramen or sushi in Milwaukee, Kawa Ramen and Sushi is one of those spots locals actually go back to, not just hype up for visitors. It’s not a fancy date-night place, but you’ll get honest Japanese comfort food and quick, friendly service. Just set your expectations for casual and you’ll probably leave happy (and full).
Kawa’s got two locations—one on the East Side and another in the 3rd Street Market Hall downtown—each with its own vibe. The East Side spot just reopened after a kitchen fire last year, so everything feels refreshed but still relaxed. Parking can be a little unpredictable, especially on weekends, but it’s manageable if you don’t mind a short walk.
Location & Contact
Address: 2321 N Murray Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53211, USA
Phone: (414) 800-7979
Website: Official site
Parking: Free and paid street parking on the East Side, but it fills up fast on weekends—expect to circle the block a couple times if it’s busy. For the Market Hall location, you’ll need to use nearby public parking garages or lots downtown.
Accessibility: Both locations are wheelchair accessible, including entrances, seating, and restrooms.
Useful Resources
🍽️ Menus & Pricing
- View Menu
- Vegetarian options and gluten-free requests are accommodated, but there’s no dedicated gluten-free menu.
📅 Reservations & Booking
- Call the East Side location directly at (414) 800-7979 for reservations. Walk-ins are common, but calling ahead helps if you’re with a group.
🚗 Delivery & Takeout
- Order online for pickup or delivery through the East Side location’s ordering page.
📱 Social Media
🎵 Events & Entertainment
- No regular events, but you can call for info if you’re curious about private bookings or group dining.
What's the Deal
What's the Food Scene Like
Walking into Kawa, you’ll catch that savory broth smell right away—the kind that makes you wish you hadn’t had a snack before coming. Their tonkotsu ramen is rich and legit, and the noodles have that springy bite you want. Sushi is fresh, with solid cuts of fish and well-made rolls—nothing super avant-garde, just good quality and nicely plated.
Service is quick, and you usually don’t have to wait long even when it’s busy. The East Side location feels relaxed and a little buzzy, with a mix of families, students, and neighborhood regulars. If you’re with kids, they have high chairs, and there’s enough space to not feel cramped. The Market Hall spot is more grab-and-go, so it’s perfect if you’re downtown and want something fast but better than mall food.
Real Talk
The ramen here is genuinely satisfying, and the sushi holds up against pricier places in town. Portions are usually generous, but a few folks have mentioned they wanted a bit more for the price on certain rolls, so check the menu before you order. If you’re hoping for a cozy, dim-lit vibe or a spot to work for hours, this isn’t it—but if you want a reliable, casual Japanese meal, you’ll get exactly that.
Practical Reality
What You Should Know
- Timing: Weeknights are usually mellow, but Friday and Saturday dinners can get crowded (especially on the East Side). If you’re in a hurry, Market Hall is your best bet for a quick meal.
- Service: Staff are friendly and efficient—don’t be surprised if your food comes out fast. They’re happy to answer questions about the menu or help with allergies.
- Logistics: They take cards and cash. For groups, call ahead to the East Side location. For takeout or delivery, use the online menu linked above.
Timing Considerations
No big seasonal changes—indoor and outdoor seating is available, and there aren’t any known issues with crowds due to weather. The East Side location just reopened, so everything feels fresh and clean for now.
The Local Food Culture
Kawa Ramen and Sushi isn’t just a spot for college kids or sushi newbies—it’s become a staple for Milwaukee’s East Side and downtown crowds looking for something reliably good. It’s one of those places people mention when you ask where to get real ramen in the city, and it helps round out the whole Japanese food scene here. Whether you’re a regular or just passing through, you’ll probably spot locals grabbing dinner after work or families out for a casual night.
Bottom Line
Worth visiting? If you want casual, tasty ramen or sushi without a long wait or pretense, Kawa is a solid pick. It’s not the fanciest place in town, but it’s consistently good, easy to access, and super convenient—especially if you’re staying or hanging out on the East Side or downtown.
