In Japan, ramen shops are very common and popular, and are sometimes referred to as ramen-ya (ラーメン屋) or ramen-ten (ラーメン店).
Some ramen shops operate in short-order style, while others provide patrons with sit-down service.
[7] In the 1990s in Japan, corporate restructuring led to increased employment layoffs and cuts, and during this time articles were published in various magazines about starting up a ramen shop as a means to generate income and become a self-employed entrepreneur in attempts to offset the job layoffs and cuts.
[a][7] Many ramen restaurants have limited seating, and some only have a bar with stools for patrons to eat at.
[10] At some ramen establishments, patrons place their order and remit payment at a ticket machine located in front of the shop, and then wait in line for their food.