Daikokuya Little Tokyo

1. The broth of the ramen had a good balance of thickness and flavor! I also love the thin noodles! 2. The spot has fun casual vibes! The interior is cozy! 3. The staff was friendly and timely with my order! It was ready after 10 mins! Note: This spot does have restrooms for customers! Photo: Lemonade and Daikokuya Ramen

I’ve been coming in and out of Little Tokyo in Downtown LA for about 25 years, and this place has always stood out as one of the most well-known ramen shops in the area. It’s consistently busy, often crowded, and parking around here has never been easy—which already tells you how popular it is. I’ve eaten here a few times over the years, and the most distinctive feature of their ramen is the broth. It’s extremely rich, thick, and hearty, with a very deep flavor. The soup is definitely on the bold side and can taste a bit salty, but if you enjoy a heavy, intense tonkotsu-style broth, this is likely right up your alley. Personally, I wouldn’t say this is my absolute favorite ramen spot, but I also don’t assume my taste matches everyone else’s. Given how many people have loved and supported this place for so long, I think there’s a good reason it remains such a staple. There are paid parking lots nearby, and street parking is also available. However, street parking can be difficult to find, so I’d recommend coming either earlier in the day or later in the evening to make parking a bit easier. If you’re visiting Downtown LA or Little Tokyo, I think Daikokuya is one of those places worth trying at least once. Experiencing their signature rich broth firsthand can be both interesting and memorable.

Beat ramen we've ever had. Even though we went on a Sunday evening during a holiday weekend and there was always a line the whole time were there, the staff was quick and efficient in getting us in. There's not a lot of tables inside but plenty outside so if you're not picky with where you sit, you won't have to wait too long. Food: the karage came out quick. Its light and crispy outside and moist and juicy inside. 10/10 We got one regular daikoku with garlic oil (so bomb), one daikoku kotteri style (it makes the broth a little sweeter and much creamier) and the spicy miso ramen (rich and creamy). They all are amazing. The best part of all bowls have to be the eggs. They're the most flavorful ramen eggs ive tried. 1000/10 Service was quick and friendly. The restaurant has an old charming vibe, clean and tidy. 1000/10 would recommend

My friend raved about this spot for so long that I really thought she was overhyping it. However, I was not disappointed. The Daikoku Ramen is mouthwateringly delicious. I highly recommend adding the Kotteri which adds a layer of rich texture and flavor. The noodles are perfectly cooked and the portion sizes are massive. The takoyaki is not bad but the ramen just steals the show. If you are near any of their locations, you have to stop by! Now for my standard comments. The location is clean and well kept. Comfortable indoor seating. They have a waitlist outside and you cannot get into the restaurant until they come out to call you in. We must have gotten there at a good time because we did not wait for more than ten minutes.

Daikokuya Little Tokyo absolutely delivers. The curry udon with chicken was rich, deeply savory, and perfectly balanced—thick, chewy noodles in a comforting curry broth with tender chicken, onions, and carrots. The shrimp tempura on the side was light, crisp, and golden, not greasy at all, with a clean dipping sauce that let the shrimp shine. You can feel the energy of the place the moment you walk in—busy kitchen, fast-moving staff, and that unmistakable Little Tokyo buzz. Everything came out hot and fresh, and the portions were generous without being overwhelming. If you’re craving authentic, satisfying Japanese comfort food in Little Tokyo, this spot lives up to the reputation. I’d come back in a heartbeat.