Let me start off with saying what a huge ramen fan I am…more specifically Nissin Top Ramen. I’ve always used it as a base to build on before I add my spices and all my fresh herbs and vegetables.
I know those colorful bags get a bad rap and are considered the bottom of the barrel even for those eating on a budget but I think it’s a staple in every Asian kitchen. I’ve always used it as a base to build on before I add my spices and all my fresh herbs and vegetables.
My friends kept telling me that I needed to ditch the bags and go check out this ramen house in Little Tokyo. I was also told it the best ramen house in Los Angeles. I have no idea if what I tasted was the best, because I don’t have another ramen house to compare it to, but it definitely was tasty.
Daikokuya is a little hole in the wall on 1st avenue right across the street from the Japanese village in Little Tokyo. We had no idea there was going to be an hour an a half wait but because this place had amazing revues, we were totally willing to take the 30th spot on what looked like a never ending list of names. Plus, if everyone else was willing to wait so long than obviously something’s going right inside. Interesting note-I didn’t hear one complaint about the wait being so long.
The restaurant was smaller than we expected but felt super cozy. I was really impressed that they were able to get people in, fed, satisfied, paid up and out the door in such a small amount of time. I had no idea what to expect and thought I was going to have a hard time deciding which ramen to get but there are only three to choose from. The signature Daikokuya ramen, the spicy miso ramen and the cold Tsukemen ramen. All of us ordered the combo that included their signature Daikokuya Ramen, the critically acclaimed shredded pork rice bowl and the Japanese coleslaw. The portions are really big. They also have an assortment of appetizers and of course there are things like fried rice, tempura and sushi but we were on a ramen mission.
The noodles tasted so fresh and were really soft and fluffy. The hard-boiled egg added a nice touch and the broth was super meaty. There was so much depth and richness. Our host showed us what to add so in went the spoonfuls of the minced garlic paste and chili oil, which took it up a notch.
The shredded pork over rice was hands down a favorite of the entire table. The rice was cooked perfectly. The pork belly was juicy and marinaded in a sweet sauce topped with a heavy portion of fresh green onions and brightly colored pink pickled ginger. All the flavors combined covered all 5 basic food senses.
Daikokuya was a great find. If the wait seems ridiculous then get your name on the list and head over to the Japanese Village to kill some time. There’s boba’s, beautiful macaroons, karaoke, mochi shops and lots of Hello Kitty. So much to love about Little Tokyo.
TIPS: If you need to take the ramen to go make sure to have them separate the juice from the noodles. Also the shredded pork is still yummy on day 2.