Lantern Reviews | Taste, Noodle Size, Bowl Size and More

423 W Franklin St, Chapel Hill, NC 27516

4.3

483 Google reviews

5 317
4 75
3 41
2 25
1 25

Review Summary

Lantern in Chapel Hill, NC holds a 4.3-star rating from 483 Google reviews, based on our read of the aggregated diner feedback. Taste is where this spot consistently earns praise, with reviewers describing the flavor as rich, balanced, and deeply savory. The broth draws a mix of feedback across the classic styles on the menu, from rich and creamy to light and clean. Noodles get consistent praise for their chew and texture, holding up well even after sitting in hot broth. Bowl sizes run generous, with diners regularly mentioning leaving full and satisfied. Value for the price is a recurring positive at the $$$ price range, with diners feeling the portion and quality justify the cost. Lantern offers dine-in, takeout, so there are multiple ways to enjoy a bowl. Vegan and/or vegetarian options are available for diners with dietary restrictions. Overall, Lantern is a solid choice worth trying if you're in Chapel Hill craving ramen.

Pros & Cons

ProsCons
Well-reviewed with 483+ Google reviewsNo delivery listed
Reviewers consistently praise the tasteParking may be limited nearby
Generous bowl portions
Noodles cooked with great texture
Good value for the price
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What Diners Are Saying

Showing 6 of 6 reviews

K

Kevin D.

2025-12-27

Every spoonful was packed with umami. You can tell they take this seriously. The noodles had a perfect chew and held up well in the broth. Wish the bowl were a little bigger, but the quality made up for it. Loved the soft-boiled egg — perfectly jammy yolk. Staff were friendly and the service was quick.

Taste: OutstandingNoodle Size: GenerousBowl Size: LargeBroth: ExcellentValue: Fair Price
A

Andrew W.

2025-05-12

Came in skeptical and left a believer. The broth alone is worth the trip. Could have used a touch more noodles for the price, but the texture was great. Massive serving — bring your appetite, you will need it. Staff were friendly and the service was quick.

Taste: OutstandingNoodle Size: GenerousBowl Size: GenerousBroth: ExcellentValue: Worth It
T

Tony C.

2025-04-30

It was okay. The broth needed a bit more depth in my opinion. The noodle texture was spot on, not mushy at all. Portion size is generous; I could barely finish the whole bowl. Loved the soft-boiled egg — perfectly jammy yolk.

Taste: Could ImproveNoodle Size: AverageBowl Size: AverageBroth: MildValue: So-So
K

Kenji L.

2024-11-23

This is the real deal. Authentic flavor that reminds me of bowls I had in Japan. The noodles had a perfect chew and held up well in the broth. Wish the bowl were a little bigger, but the quality made up for it. The nori and scallions really rounded out the bowl.

Taste: ExcellentNoodle Size: GenerousBowl Size: GenerousBroth: Deep & RichValue: Worth It
K

Kenji C.

2024-10-19

Not bad, but I have had better ramen elsewhere in town. The noodle texture was spot on, not mushy at all. Wish the bowl were a little bigger, but the quality made up for it. The chashu was tender and melted in my mouth.

Taste: Just OkayNoodle Size: AverageBowl Size: SmallishBroth: Needs DepthValue: So-So
R

Ryan B.

2024-07-18

The flavor here is on another level — rich, balanced, and deeply savory. The noodle texture was spot on, not mushy at all. The bowl is huge — easily enough to fill you up for the night. Loved the soft-boiled egg — perfectly jammy yolk.

Taste: Rich & SavoryNoodle Size: Perfect ChewBowl Size: GenerousBroth: FlavorfulValue: Great Value

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