What's the difference between Tonkotsu, Miso, Shoyu, and Shio ramen?

These are the four main "tare" or flavor bases for ramen broth. **Tonkotsu** is a rich, creamy pork bone broth, often cloudy and deeply savory. **Miso** ramen uses fermented soybean paste for a complex, umami-rich flavor that can be nutty and slightly sweet. **Shoyu** ramen is a clear broth flavored with Japanese soy sauce, offering a tangy, savory, and light taste. **Shio**, meaning salt, is the lightest and clearest broth, seasoned with salt to highlight the natural flavors of the underlying chicken or pork stock. Many ramen restaurants in Los Angeles specialize in one or two of these styles.

How can I find authentic Japanese ramen in Los Angeles?

Finding "authentic Japanese ramen" means looking for a few key signs. Check for restaurants that make their noodles in-house, offer a variety of traditional broths like Tonkotsu or Shoyu, and have toppings like chashu (braised pork), ajitama (marinated soft-boiled egg), and nori (seaweed). Our directory helps you find authentic ramen shops in Los Angeles by highlighting these features and including user reviews that often mention authenticity.

Are there vegetarian or vegan ramen options available?

Yes! The demand for "vegetarian ramen" and "vegan ramen" has grown, and many restaurants in Los Angeles now offer delicious plant-based options. These often feature a vegetable or mushroom-based broth, tofu or other plant-based proteins, and a variety of fresh vegetable toppings. Use our "vegetarian options" or "vegan" filter to easily discover noodle shops that cater to your dietary needs.

What is Tsukemen, and how is it different from ramen?

Tsukemen is a popular variation where the noodles and broth are served separately. The noodles, usually thicker and served cold or at room temperature, are dipped into a very concentrated, intensely flavored broth before eating. It's a unique and interactive dining experience. Many top-rated ramen restaurants in Los Angeles also feature "tsukemen ramen" on their menu.

What are some common ramen toppings I should try?

Beyond the noodles and broth, toppings define your ramen experience. Popular choices include **Chashu** (tender braised pork belly), **Ajitama** (marinated soft-boiled egg with a jammy yolk), **Menma** (bamboo shoots), **Nori** (dried seaweed), **Narutomaki** (cured fish cake with a pink spiral), and fresh scallions. Many shops also offer add-ons like corn, butter, or a "spice bomb" for a "spicy ramen" kick.

Is it rude to slurp my ramen noodles?

Not at all! In Japan, slurping noodles is considered a sign that you are enjoying your meal. It also helps cool down the hot noodles as you eat them and enhances the flavor. So go ahead and slurp away at any ramen restaurant in Los Angeles—it's part of the authentic experience!

Kae-dama is a system for ordering an extra serving of noodles. If you've finished your first portion of noodles but still have broth left, you can order a "kae-dama" to keep the meal going. It's a great way to get more out of that delicious broth and is a common practice at many authentic ramen shops, especially those specializing in Hakata-style ramen.

How can I find ramen restaurants that are good for a date night or groups?

Finding the right atmosphere is key. For a "ramen for a date night," look for restaurants with a "full bar," "private booths," or a more "romantic" ambiance. For groups, search for "ramen for groups" or check for restaurants that take reservations or have large communal tables. Our directory filters in Los Angeles help you find the perfect spot for any occasion, whether it's a "business lunch" or a "family-friendly" dinner.

How do I find affordable ramen or cheap eats near me?

Ramen can be a fantastic "budget-friendly" meal. To find "affordable ramen restaurants" in Los Angeles, use our price filters to sort by cost. Also, look for "happy hour ramen specials," "lunch specials," or "ramen deals" in our listings. Many great noodle shops offer a delicious and filling bowl for a great value.

Can I find ramen with gluten-free noodles?

Yes, many ramen shops are now offering "gluten-free noodles" to accommodate dietary restrictions. These are often made from rice or other alternative flours. Because not all restaurants offer this, it's best to check our directory or call the restaurant ahead of time. Use our "gluten-free noodles" filter to find accommodating ramen places in Los Angeles.

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Found 75 Ramen Studios Near You in Los Angeles, California

Showing 31-45 of 75 listings in Los Angeles, California.

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Showing 31-45 of 75 listings in Los Angeles, California.

Hokkaido Ramen Santouka

3760 S Centinela Ave, Los Angeles, California, United States

4.5(566 reviews)

Experience the authentic taste of Hokkaido at Santouka, a beloved ramen shop renowned for its rich, flavorful broths and perfectly chewy noodles. Specializing in Shio (salt) ramen, their signature bowls are served piping hot, featuring tender pork cheek and a comforting, savory broth. While the menu offers variety, including Miso and Shoyu, the focus remains on quality ingredients and traditional preparation. Located conveniently within a Japanese market, Santouka provides a casual, no-frills dining experience with reasonable prices and quick service, making it a go-to spot for a consistently delicious and satisfying ramen meal.

Ramen Nagi

10250 Santa Monica Blvd Ste. #2850, Los Angeles, California, United States

4.5(541 reviews)

Experience Ramen Nagi's signature customizable ramen, a vibrant taste of Tokyo right in LA. Known for its award-winning Original King broth and unique variations like the spicy Red King and aromatic Green King, Nagi offers a truly personalized ramen journey. Choose your spice, garlic, noodle type, firmness, and toppings to craft your perfect bowl. The rich, savory broths and perfectly cooked noodles are complemented by delicious add-ons like karaage chicken and flavorful pork. With efficient, friendly service and a lively atmosphere, Ramen Nagi delivers an authentic and exciting ramen experience that keeps customers lining up.

Hachioji Craft & Vegan Ramen

313 1st St, Los Angeles, California, United States

4.5(534 reviews)

Hachioji Craft Ramen offers a refreshing alternative to traditional tonkotsu, specializing in lighter, chicken-based shoyu and shio broths, harmonized with grated onion. Praised for its authentic Japanese ambiance and friendly staff, this Little Tokyo gem provides a cozy dining experience. Beyond classic ramen, enjoy popular sides like perfectly fried karaage and a variety of sushi rolls. Vegan and vegetarian options, including a creamy white vegan ramen, are readily available, along with gluten-free noodles. With quick service, a great happy hour, and a unique selection of Japanese beers, it's a highly recommended spot for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Slurpin Ramen Bar - 8th St

3500 W 8th St, Los Angeles, California, United States

4.5(474 reviews)

Slurpin' Ramen Bar in Koreatown is a must-visit for its exceptionally creamy and flavorful tonkotsu broth, paired with perfectly textured noodles. Praised as a top LA ramen spot, it offers a calm atmosphere ideal for late-night cravings. Dive into their signature bowls, customize your spice level, and don't miss the heavenly takoyaki. While vegan options are available, the rich, savory ramen is the main draw. Friendly service and reasonable prices make it a consistent favorite, though parking can be a challenge.

Fukurou RAMEN

5103 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, California, United States

4.5(389 reviews)

Fukurou Ramen offers a late-night haven for ramen lovers, staying open until 11:30 PM. Reviewers rave about the delicious ramen, with specific praise for the rich, flavorful broths and perfectly textured noodles. Combos are a great value, featuring ramen alongside tasty fried rice and gyoza. While some found the chashu flavor too charred or the broth slightly salty, the overall consensus points to a satisfying and authentic experience. The cozy, quiet atmosphere, often accompanied by Studio Ghibli music, makes it a relaxing spot, and the friendly, attentive staff ensures a welcoming visit.

Peking Tavern

236 S Los Angeles St suite g, Los Angeles, California, United States

4.5(365 reviews)

Peking Tavern is a vibrant Chinese gastropub offering an exciting fusion of authentic flavors and contemporary charm. Renowned for its handmade dumplings, savory dim sum, and flavorful noodles, the menu is a culinary adventure. Complement your meal with a selection from their craft beer, fine wine, or artfully crafted cocktail list. With a stylish ambiance, a welcoming patio, and 90 minutes of complimentary parking, it’s the perfect spot for a lively dining experience that celebrates culture and community.

Ramen Tatsunoya

3440 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, California, United States

4.5(286 reviews)

Discover Silverlake's top ramen destination, celebrated for its rich and flavorful broths, from creamy Koku Tonkotsu to vibrant Spicy Miso. Diners consistently praise the perfectly cooked noodles, delicious add-on eggs, and must-try gyoza. This chill, welcoming spot offers great value and friendly service, earning accolades as one of the best ramen experiences in Los Angeles. With vegan options available and convenient parking, it's the ideal spot for a satisfying and authentic bowl.

Kai Ramen Westchester

8334 Lincoln Blvd, Los Angeles, California, United States

4.5(241 reviews)

Experience the rich flavors of Kai Ramen, a highly recommended spot celebrated for its delicious broths and welcoming atmosphere. Dive into signature bowls like the popular Black Garlic or Bomb Ramen, with flavorful options including spicy beef and a standout vegan spinach ramen. Kai Ramen caters to all with dedicated vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free choices. Diners consistently praise the friendly service, often highlighting the owner's personal touch, and the clean, modern decor. While occasional service mix-ups are noted, the exceptional taste and quality make Kai Ramen a must-visit destination for authentic, satisfying ramen.

Tsujita Artisan Noodle

740 E 3rd St, Los Angeles, California, United States

4.5(222 reviews)

A legendary Los Angeles destination, this spot is a must-visit for its famous tsukemen (dipping noodles). Prepare for a potential wait, but the reward is a bowl of thick, chewy noodles served alongside an intensely rich and flavorful pork broth, simmered for over 60 hours. Diners love the tender char siu and perfectly cooked ajitama egg. The experience is enhanced with a squeeze of lime to cut the richness, and you can finish with a "soup-wari" by having them add lighter broth to your dipping bowl. While they also offer traditional ramen, the unforgettable tsukemen is what makes this place a top-tier choice.

Suehiro Mini

642 N Broadway #5, Los Angeles, California, United States

4.5(178 reviews)

Craving authentic Japanese comfort food, especially late at night? Suehiro Mini in LA's Chinatown is your destination. This beloved spot serves delicious ramen, with rave reviews for its rich tonkotsu and a uniquely praised vegan tomato broth. Enjoy hearty, flavorful bowls and other Japanese favorites like udon and donburi, all at reasonable prices. Known for its fast, friendly service and cozy, welcoming atmosphere, Suehiro Mini is the perfect place to satisfy your cravings, day or night. Open late, it offers a genuine taste of Japanese home cooking.

IZAKAYA Taberu Japanese Restaurant

806 E 3rd St #140, Los Angeles, California, United States

4.5(157 reviews)

Experience a hip, modern Izakaya in DTLA that masterfully blends American and Japanese flavors. While celebrated for its creative skewers, A5 Wagyu, and fusion small plates like spareribs and seafood tartar, Taberu also serves delicious ramen, including Tokyo Laksa and Pai Koh Ramen. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, perfect for late-night gatherings. Exceptional service, highlighted by standout servers like Savior and Xavier, truly elevates the dining experience. With vegetarian, halal, and gluten-free options available, it's a welcoming spot for all to discover authentic Japanese tastes with an innovative fusion twist.

Totoyama Ramen DTLA

888 S Figueroa St # 120, Los Angeles, California, United States

4.5(118 reviews)

Discover authentic Japanese ramen at Ramen Totoyama, a DTLA gem run by staff from Japan, offering a true taste of Tokyo. Savor their rich, milky Tonkotsu ramen and flavorful Shoyu broth, alongside delicious karaage that transports you to Japan, fresh sushi, and other Japanese delights. They also offer gluten-free options. Enjoy a calm, clean atmosphere and friendly service, complemented by convenient free validated parking. Ramen Totoyama delivers a genuine, comforting Japanese dining experience.

Daikokuya Little Tokyo

327 1st St, Los Angeles, California, United States

4.4(4276 reviews)

Daikokuya, a beloved ramen institution in LA's Little Tokyo, offers an authentic taste of Japan with its signature Daikoku Ramen. Expect a wait for this popular, cash-only spot, but the reward is a rich, flavorful tonkotsu broth and incredibly tender chashu pork. Their homemade noodles and well-executed appetizers like gyoza and karaage are also highlights. The cozy, bustling atmosphere evokes a classic Japanese ramen bar, making it a go-to for comforting, hearty bowls. While some find it pricey, many agree the delicious, soul-warming ramen is worth the experience.

Orochon Ramen

123 Astronaut Ellison S Onizuka St #303, Los Angeles, California, United States

4.4(1409 reviews)

Discover Orochon Ramen, a vibrant Little Tokyo staple celebrated for its intensely flavorful and customizable ramen. Dive into a choice of savory miso, soy, or salt broths, and select your perfect spice level, from mild to the legendary 'Man vs. Food' challenge. Diners consistently praise the generous portions, chewy noodles, and authentic taste that make each bowl a satisfying adventure. With a cozy atmosphere and options for vegetarians, Orochon Ramen offers a memorable experience for those craving bold flavors and hearty servings.

Tsujita LA Artisan Noodle Annex

2050 Sawtelle Blvd, Los Angeles, California, United States

4.4(1013 reviews)

Experience the intense, rich flavors of authentic Jiro-style ramen at this popular LA spot. Known for its signature thick, chewy noodles and deeply savory, garlicky pork broth, this restaurant offers a truly unique and hearty meal. The tender, flavorful char siu and perfectly cooked soft-boiled egg complement the robust soup. While the rich, sometimes salty, and oily broth is a defining characteristic, it's balanced by additions like fresh garlic and chili for a customizable kick. Expect generous portions and a lively, often busy atmosphere, making it a must-try for ramen enthusiasts seeking an intense, satisfying experience.

Ramen Restaurants in Los Angeles