With the cold weather in Minnesota, we decided to travel out west for ramen to Los Angeles. It’s been a while since we last visited the Golden State where the ramen scene is forever changing. This time our research brought us to a ramen joint in Sawtelle Japantown (formerly known as Little Osaka) in West L.A. called Tsujita LA Artisan Noodles. Their signature dish is the Tsukemen ramen or “dipping ramen” but they are also known for their Tonkotsu ramen. When we arrived at Tsujita there was already a line of people outside hoping to land a spot at the ramen bar or a table, which got us excited because we felt we were in for a treat! We threw our names on the waiting list, peeked at the menu to pre-plan which ramen bowls to order, and observed the reactions of the customers leaving the restaurant. We were soon to be enlightened by the restaurant’s motto, “The ‘Taste’ creates ‘Bond’ of people, that is Tsujita’s belief.”
We got seated at the bar. Tsujita gives you the option of choosing between soft, medium or hard noodles (hard noodles = al dente). Their noodles are not made on site and instead are prepared by Sun Noodles. We ordered the Cha Siu Tonkotsu Ramen and the Killer Tonkotsu Ramen (spicy). The Killer Tonkotsu came with three tender pork belly slices, green scallions, nori, black fungus, and red chili peppers. The spice level was just right so if you’re in the mood for spicy ramen, we highly recommend trying the Killer Tonkotsu. The Cha Siu Tonkotsu had a rich, salty pork flavor but with a bit too much green onions. We enjoyed the soft boiled egg served warm. Overall, great atmosphere with modern décor, friendly wait staff, and well crafted ramen bowls.
