AFURI Ramen Arts District

This is a great hidden gem in the art district of LA. I love that they have so many Ramen options including those that are gluten-free. It's been a treat tto go have this as a restaurant options for lunch in the area

So Clay’s ramen game was on a bit of a hiatus (still bring the girls out often though) as I’ve been exploring a gluten reduced diet. Don’t fret, I’m still in the game and had to get over to the new Afuri in the Arts District in DTLA. Afuri is a chain from Japan with locations in many parts of the world. Very nice space with a @obeygiant Fairey mural out front. Tried the Yuzu Shio (citrus salt base/pictured) gluten free noodle and the standard Tonkotsu regular noodles. Also got some gyoza (dumplings/average) and karage (fried chicken/dang good). Ok, the Yuzu Shio broth was light, crisp and tasty although the gluten free noodle was shirataki or ito-konnyaku (translucent, gelatinous traditional Japanese noodles made from the konjac yam) which were kinda tasteless and left a little film in my mouth which was kinda unpleasant. Bothered me anyways. I think a rice based noodle would be better. Venice Ramen (top ramen spot in LA, along with Tastunoya) uses a pho type noodle for their gluten free option and it’s noice. The Tonkotsu with regular noodles had a sophisticated broth but just not smooth enough. Noodle was ok but the chashu wasn’t on point. Cool yuzu cocktails though! All in all, was excited to try but going with a 3.5, close to 4 out of 5 bowl rating. 🍜🍜🍜.5 #claysramengame #broth #noodles #ramen #konnyaku #yuzu #soup #japanesefood #japan #artsdistrictla #🍜