Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Los Angeles

Unique ramen

You have had enough standard bowls to know when a ramen shop is doing something different. You are looking for a recipe that breaks the mold.

Based on 653 Opinions
+650
User
User
User
Updated April 2026
01
Hinodeya Ramen Bar Little Tokyo image 1
Hinodeya Ramen Bar Little Tokyo image 2
Hinodeya Ramen Bar Little Tokyo image 3
View all

Japanese-style ramen bar offers a spacious, stylish setting with taiko drum greetings and custom Ghibli music creating a welcoming atmosphere. Tables feature glass jars of toppings and soft lighting, enhancing the dining experience. The vibe blends authentic Japanese design with a lively, comfortable energy.

Broth stands out with a dashi-based flavor that is lighter yet full of taste. Noodles come fresh with generous toppings like clams in the Hamaguri ramen, making each bowl authentic and carefully crafted.

Make-Your-Own Mini Miso Soup offers a unique twist not found elsewhere. The Yu-Lin-Chi appetizer delivers a distinct sweet spicy flavor. Ramen has a strong, distinct aroma that fills the air before tasting.

People are saying

"The Japanese food, especially the ramen, is incredibly tasty and comforting."

"I found the ramen here really delicious and tasty."

"Our server Mija was so sweet and fun to talk to."

Good to know

1

Hinodeya Ramen Bar offers only ten bowls of hotate ramen each day.

2

Parking nearby costs about $10-15 per day.

3

Expect a wait on busy days due to limited seating.

02
Laki RAMEN image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, stylish Japanese restaurant with a modern, clean interior and a cozy, homey atmosphere that feels authentic to Japan. Bright, thoughtfully designed space includes a pet-friendly outdoor patio. Known for high-quality, inventive ramen that stands out in Los Angeles.

Ramen here features a very rich broth and authentically Japanese recipes crafted by a Japanese chef. The scallop ramen stands out as a special menu item now made permanent, offering a unique and high-quality experience.

Ramen here stands out with higher quality and a distinct taste unlike others in LA. The Matcha Tiramisu offers a unique blend of bitterness, sweet cream, and crunchies. Vegan options bring distinct flavor profiles that add to the unique menu.

People are saying

"I thought the ramen was awesome and very tasty."

"I enjoyed the delicate, crispy, and tender shrimp cocktail."

"I found the ramen here to be truly unique and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour menu features hearty options and runs from 4-6pm daily.

2

Parking is available in a small lot; street parking is also an option nearby.

3

The lunch special offers a good deal for those looking to save.

03
Torisoba Tonsho image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small restaurant with modern, clean decor offers a cozy, inviting atmosphere that feels like eating in Japan. The menu features unique chicken-based ramen with savory, buttery broth and high-quality chicken, setting it apart from typical ramen spots.

Chicken broth ramen stands out with super authentic Japanese flavor and a greater depth of chicken flavor with truffle oil. Varieties like the Original and Lemon Butter ramen feature rich broth, tender chicken, and soba noodles, offering a light yet flavorful meal.

Chicken broth offers a unique flavor unlike typical pork-based ramens. Ramen dishes present unusual looks paired with distinctive tastes that stand out in the scene.

People are saying

"I thought the chicken paitan ramen broth was rich yet light."

"You have to try the lemon butter ramen with a hint of truffles."

"I tried ramen that looked unusual but tasted very unique."

Good to know

1

Torisoba Tonsho does not have a liquor license.

2

There is free parking with validation in the hidden lot behind the building.

3

Street parking can be difficult on Wednesday nights.

04
Menya Tigre image 1
Japanese curry restaurant

Small, cozy space with an open kitchen and covered outdoor patio featuring heating lamps. Loud atmosphere with a 90s hip hop and reggae soundtrack creates a lively, youthful vibe. Seating includes a bar and well-spaced tables, attracting a crowd that enjoys rich, flavorful Japanese curry dishes.

Curry ramen stands out with its rich, flavorful broth and a mild kick. The chicken-based broth offers a unique twist compared to typical pork or beef ramen, delivering a comforting and deeply satisfying taste.

Rich, flavorful curry ramen offers a unique twist on traditional Japanese cuisine. This dish stands out for its bold taste and distinct style.

People are saying

"The pork cutlet curry was excellent, tender and juicy."

"The curry ramen here is packed with flavor."

"The curry ramen here is unique and rich."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, their tsukemen is 15% off.

2

Parking is challenging in the area, so plan ahead.

3

Expect about a 20-minute wait for a table on Saturday nights.

05
Torisoba Sumiya image 1
Japanese restaurant

Open kitchen with charcoal grill flames creates a cozy, lively atmosphere accented by warm wood and modern decor. Seating is tight but inviting, with a large wooden bar facing the kitchen and about 10 tables. The vibe blends authentic Tokyo style with casual comfort, making it quietly distinctive.

Charcoal grilled chicken adds a smoky aroma and rich umami to the ramen broth. Large bowls come packed with flame-kissed chicken and thick scallions, creating a unique and flavorful ramen experience.

Charcoal-grilled chicken ramen offers a unique smoky flavor that stands apart from typical pork tonkotsu ramen. The rich chicken broth combined with this distinctive twist creates a flavorful and authentic ramen experience.

People are saying

"The Japanese Food here has a uniquely smoky, charred chicken."

"The ramen here is super flavorful with perfectly chewy noodles."

"The ramen's unique smoky flavor from charcoal chicken is amazing."

Good to know

1

Parking is free with validation in the basement parkade.

2

Expect a five-minute wait before being seated during peak hours.

3

They stop accepting new guests at 9 pm, so arrive early.

06
Japanese Village Plaza image 1

Cobblestone paths and wooden facades mimic traditional Japanese shopping streets, creating an immersive small-town feel. Bright red lanterns and a 50-foot replica fire lookout tower add to the authentic Edo-period design. The plaza buzzes with lively energy, especially on weekends, drawing crowds to its outdoor dining and arcade games.

Multiple restaurants serve authentic ramen, including tonkotsu and Hakata Ikkousha styles. The compact area makes it easy to explore various ramen options alongside other Japanese dishes.

Lively atmosphere blends with unique little shops selling traditional crafts, kimonos, and anime merchandise. Red lanterns and Japanese-style architecture create a distinct vibe not found elsewhere.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Japanese food and casual sweets."

"I loved the authentic ramen here."

"You'll find unique shops selling Japanese gifts and anime."

Good to know

1

The plaza hosts cherry blossom events in spring with sakura-themed stalls.

2

Nisei Week Japanese Festival in August includes Obon dancing, taiko drums, and a parade.

3

Parking can get crowded and expensive on weekends.

07
ORIGIN Korean BBQ image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Korean barbecue restaurant with tabletop charcoal grilling and waitstaff-cooked meat offers an interactive yet relaxing dining experience. Interior blends retro-industrial 1960s Seoul style with modern design, creating a lively and warm atmosphere. Unique features include built-in hot pot burners and a scratcher game adding excitement to meals.

Ramen here features a rich, flavorful broth with brisket and vegetables. The Dwenjang Jji Gae Ramen offers a unique twist with its bean paste soup base.

An extensive menu offers premium meats with distinct flavors and unique cuts. The dining experience includes a scratcher game and a lively vibe from the 1960s Seoul-inspired décor.

People are saying

"The Korean BBQ here has delicious, tender meats and yummy sides."

"The ramen's meat quality, especially the short rib, was a real highlight."

"The meats here are so tender and bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

2

Parking can be challenging in the area, so plan accordingly.

3

Expect a wait during peak hours, especially on weekends.

08
TENKAIPPIN LA 本店 image 1
Ramen restaurant

Ramen restaurant offers spacious modern design with a warm, inviting atmosphere blending Kyoto and Los Angeles styles. The vibe stays lively and efficient, reflecting authentic roots with community-style seating. Broth stands out as thick, creamy, and richly flavored, setting it apart from typical ramen spots.

Kotteri ramen features a super thick, creamy broth made mainly from chicken and vegetables, not pork. Noodles come cooked to perfection, and the flavor stays rich and authentic to Kyoto style.

A super rich soup stands out with a flavor unlike any other ramen in LA. This place offers a genuinely unique taste experience.

People are saying

"The ramen broth is uniquely creamy and rich, almost like gravy."

"The Gyoza here are thick and rich, almost gravy-like."

"The unique ramen broth is rich, thick, and almost like a savory gravy."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $1 per hour for the first two hours at Aiso Parking Garage.

2

Ramen dishes are priced between $19.50 and $28, depending on thickness.

3

Expect to pay around $109 for a meal for four, indicating elevated prices.

09
Ramen Nagi image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small, modern space with Japanese theme and large glass windows creates a bright, open feel. Atmosphere is lively and energetic, often busy with long lines and a sense of being rushed. Offers authentic ramen flavors that attract enthusiasts despite the casual, bustling environment.

Broth bursts with tonkotsu richness and deep flavor. Squid ink ramen offers a strong garlic punch. Lamb ramen adds a unique twist to traditional bowls.

Broth stands out with its unique flavor. A ball of miso-infused minced pork adds deep savory notes. Specials rotate, offering distinctive dishes occasionally.

People are saying

"The ramen here is flavorful with a rich, clean broth."

"The ramen here is delicious, especially the flavorful chashu."

"The customizable ramen options here are truly unique."

Good to know

1

Expect to wait 20-45 minutes for a table during peak hours.

2

They only accept credit card payments.

3

There is no parking validation available.

10
TGI Korean BBQ image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Spacious outdoor patio with gas lamps and rooftop dining offers a lively and authentic Korean barbecue experience. Atmosphere ranges from vibrant and fun to occasionally smoky and loud, suitable for groups and casual hangouts. Large parties gather here, enjoying interactive grilling and occasional sports on screen.

Broths range from refreshing soybean paste to spicy ramen with a good kick. Options include premium beef cuts and classic Korean flavors like tteokbokki and spicy fish stew.

Unique dishes include Korean Fried Chicken, dynamite scallops, and Louisiana Cajun shrimp. Meat dipped in cheese and the Giant Beef Rib offer distinct flavors. The patio adds a unique atmosphere.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating here has amazing lobster and premium meats."

"The bottomless lobster tails were delicious and worth the price."

"The giant beef rib here is a truly unique experience."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday to Thursday from 5 PM to 7 PM with BOGO drinks.

2

Weekend lunch special is available from 11:30 AM to 4 PM for $27.99.

3

Parking is available for $3 directly next to the restaurant.

11
El Gato Night Market image 1

Outdoor market fills a small parking lot with bright lights and many food stalls offering diverse options. Atmosphere feels family-friendly and lively, with live music and entertainment adding to the energy. Crowds can make the space feel cramped, especially later in the evening.

Birria ramen stands out with its rich flavor that does not need extra seasoning. The menu includes both traditional ramen and a unique Ramen Birria option blending Hispanic flavors.

A unique mix of flavors and aromas fills the air, showcasing Mexican food from various states. Crowds gather to try many distinctive dishes and a wide range of dessert choices.

People are saying

"I found a large variety of food options here."

"You'll find so many unique food options here, like birria tacos and bubble waffles."

"You have to try the birria ramen; it's so rich in flavor."

Good to know

1

Parking across the street costs $10 for all day.

2

Parking can be difficult to find, especially on busy nights.

3

The market is open Friday to Sunday, with peak crowds on weekends.

12
Killer Noodle Tsujita image 1
Ramen restaurant

Ramen restaurant offers spacious seating with both indoor and outdoor options, featuring heated patio for cooler weather. Atmosphere includes loud noise levels and house music, creating a lively vibe. Interior design uses red and black accents with an open, clean aesthetic.

Rich, peanut butter-infused broth defines the Tokyo-style ramen here, blending Japanese and Chinese spice influences. Multiple vegetarian options exist, and diners can customize spice and numbness levels for a unique ramen experience.

Ramen features a unique spice profile blending Japanese and Chinese influences. Dishes include peanut butter for an unusual flavor twist and emphasize spiciness throughout.

People are saying

"The soup's flavor is off-the-hook, with a great balance of heat and depth."

"The ramen here is rich and tastes like peanut butter."

"The ramen here has a unique, flavorful spice profile."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging on Sawtelle.

2

The restaurant gets really busy after 6PM.

3

You need to jot your name down on their wait list to avoid waiting idly.

13
Gangnam Station Korean BBQ image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Korean barbecue restaurant offers self-serve meat and side dish bars that let diners grill their own food at the table. Large glass windows provide a panoramic city view with seating that overlooks the block below. The atmosphere is modern and inviting, with K-pop music playing softly in the background.

A hot bowl of customizable Shin ramen comes at the end of the meal as a free bonus. The ramen tastes like store-bought Shin ramen and serves as a palate cleanser after the meat and salad bar.

Dining happens on top of a train station, creating a unique setting. The menu features a Hawaiian BBQ bulgogi flavor and a semi buffet style with a meat and salad bar for self-service.

People are saying

"You can find parking nearby easily, and it's often validated."

"The ramen at the end was a delicious bonus."

"The semi-buffet style here is unique; you can grab your own meats."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs on weekdays until 4 PM with all-you-can-eat options for $25.

2

The weekday lunch special starts at $26.99 with 45 items available.

3

There is a two-hour limit for the buffet, and last orders are denied 20 minutes before time is up.

14
DTLA AYCE KBBQ image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Open-air setup with patio string lights and fire lamps creates a semi-outdoor dining experience that feels spacious but can be chilly. TVs show sports and K-pop videos, adding to a lively, energetic vibe with loud music. Tables offer a cozy yet spacious setting suitable for intimate dinners or group gatherings.

Unique dishes include kimchi fried rice and a ramen fried rice with a distinct cup ramen flavor. Sides like nachos with cotija cheese and savory salsa add to the variety.

People are saying

"The Korean Food here has fantastic, plentiful meat options."

"The outdoor seating is great for enjoying the tasty meat."

"You'll find unique sides like nachos, tots, and onion rings."

Good to know

1

The all-you-can-eat price is $26.95 per person, with a two-person minimum.

2

They stop serving food at 9:20 PM, despite being open until 10:30 PM.

3

Street parking is available, but be aware of metered spots.

15
Kura Revolving Sushi Bar image 1
Conveyor belt sushi restaurant

Conveyor belts display sushi plates with names while robots deliver drinks, creating a tech-forward vibe. The atmosphere is lively and fun, featuring touch screen ordering and a game rewarding diners after multiple plates. Seating includes Japanese-style booths, and the environment can be loud and energetic.

A revolving sushi bar offers a unique dining experience with a variety of quality sushi and distinctive menu items. The setup makes the meal interactive and different from typical sushi spots.

People are saying

"It's a fun experience with the conveyor belt sushi and robot drink delivery."

"It's a fun, kid-friendly place with prizes for eating plates."

"The revolving sushi belt offers a unique and fun dining experience."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; expect long wait times, especially on weekends.

2

Parking is available for free for customers.

3

The restaurant has a unique prize system for eating 15 plates of sushi.

16
Mrs. Fish image 1
Japanese restaurant

Underground Japanese restaurant with aquarium ceiling creates a relaxed, elegant vibe. Live music and DJs add vibrant energy without overpowering conversation. Unique menu and decor offer a distinct dining experience.

Pork belly ramen features a unique broth that stands out. The Kurobuta pork ramen offers a rich, flavorful experience. Both dishes highlight the quality and depth of the ramen here.

Massive aquarium ceiling creates a standout ambiance. Cocktails come in unique, picture-worthy styles. Menu and decor both offer a distinct Japanese dining experience.

People are saying

"The seafood here is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented."

"The Japanese restaurant's menu and decor are truly unique."

"I thought the ramen was the best I had ever eaten."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a table, especially during peak hours.

2

Valet parking costs $17.57 before tip, with no street parking available.

3

Happy hour runs from 5 to 6:30 pm with discounted sushi options.

17
Chinchikurin Little Tokyo image 1
Okonomiyaki restaurant

Okonomiyaki restaurant with Japanese-inspired interior and open kitchen creates an authentic dining experience. Tables feature built-in grills for keeping food warm, supporting a lively, interactive atmosphere. The space suits groups well, combining traditional art elements with casual seating.

Spicy goam features a unique flavor with onions, jalapenos, Japanese mayo, a pancake-like patty, and noodles. The menu offers distinctive Japanese dishes that stand out for their originality.

People are saying

"This Japanese food, the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, is a layered masterpiece."

"The takoyaki here is authentic, soft, and moist."

"The food here is unique, with amazing flavor explosions."

Good to know

1

Parking validation is available, making it easier to avoid street parking.

2

Happy hour offers nice drink prices, making it a good time to visit.

3

Expect long lines during peak hours, especially on weekends.

18
Tsujita LA Artisan Noodles image 1

Outdoor seating expands the space with a cozy, relaxing vibe that contrasts the intimate, buzzing interior. The atmosphere hums with the sound of slurping noodles and chopsticks, reflecting a serious ramen focus. Seating is limited indoors but spacious outside, creating a dynamic energy between the two areas.

Specialty tsukemen ramen stands out with rich, authentic flavors. The sunrise vegan ramen offers a notable vegetarian option with deep, satisfying taste.

Ramen features a unique fishy broth and a silky texture that stands out. The tonkotsu ramen carries a distinctive pork bone aroma, and the peach juice offers a mildly salty flavor that pairs well with the meal.

People are saying

"The Tsukemen broth is rich, deeply umami, and has a thick, grainy texture."

"The ramen broth is rich, deeply umami, and has a thick, grainy texture."

"The ramen here has a unique, rich, and savory tonkotsu broth."

Good to know

1

During busy hours, especially dinner time from Thursday to Saturday, there can be up to an hour-long wait.

2

On Monday evening, there was no line at Tsujita LA Artisan Noodles.

3

Seating is limited and the restaurant is very popular.

Discover more

Los Angeles, California

Area guide
Loading Map...