6.22.2008

Daikokyu Ramen | Little Tokyo | LA


They say you can't judge a book by it's cover. And I say, "You can judge a restaurant by it's crowd... of people waiting to get a table to eat." 9 times out of 10 I always have to wait to grab a seat at this super popular noodle house in Little Tokyo called Daikokyu Ramen. Some people love it, some people hate it, all I know is that I let the food speak for itself.


Ever since I was introduced to this place a year ago, I have been hooked. It is the noodle place to go in Little Tokyo. I love everything about it, from the food itself, to it's hole in the wall vibe, to the Asian movie posters that surround the joint. Daikokyu isn't just a noodle house, it's an institution.



I brought my out of town newlywed friends Jacqui & Brennan, and they loved it. I met up with them after watching a hip hop anime version of "Pippin" at East West Players. Which was visually pleasing, and the cast was extremely talented.


They have the best gyoza (potstickers) in LA. I love the shape, the texture, and the taste.


Daikokyu Ramen consists of noodles, a boiled egg, bamboo shoots, bean sprouts, and scallions in a pork broth soup. Now what makes Daikokyu Ramen so good is that the soup itself is made from soy sauce, pork broth which comes from boiling pork bones for nearly a full day. The pork they use is kurobuta or black pork which is know for its soft tenderness and flavor. If you are craving a great noodle house, you have to check this place out. Parking is tricky and I suggest to drive around for a free spot, and if you come with friends, drop one person off so they can put your names on a wait list to shorten the time. Dress in layers, it can get hot in there, so once your temperature rises you can peel off the clothing. The prices are cheap and they also have sake and beer.

Daikokyu Ramen
327 E. 1st Street
Los Angeles, CA. 90012
Phone:213.626.1680
www.daikokyu-ten.com


www.eastwestplayers.org

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