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Totoyama Ramen DTLA
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Totoyama Ramen DTLA
8.1
A tucked-in ramen shop in the Figueroa corridor delivering hearty bowls with a serious focus on broth depth and noodle chew. It’s a quietly strong downtown option when you want ramen that feels cared for, not templated.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tonkotsu ramen, Black garlic ramen, Gyoza
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Broth-forward ramen with better-than-expected downtown precision.
Who should go: Solo diners or ramen pairs.
When to visit: Weeknights dinner.
What to order: Tonkotsu, black garlic, gyoza.
Insider tip: Request firmer noodles for best texture.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Figueroa can be hit-or-miss at peak hours; the nearby surface lots are the most reliable option, typically $6–$10 depending on the time.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; most guests come in everyday wear, including work clothes or hoodies.
Noise level: Moderate — conversation is easy at two-tops, though the room hums during dinner rush.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes depending on the hour; the shop is small so waits fluctuate quickly.
Weekday lunch: Often no wait, with a short queue only during peak office lunch times.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but workable — one or two ramen options can be made vegetarian and sides are mostly flexible.
Vegan options: Very limited — broth bases are animal-forward; expect only a couple of sides that qualify.
Gluten-free options: Not ideal — noodles contain wheat and there is no dedicated gluten-free noodle option.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date appreciates a cozy, low-key ramen setting. It’s intimate but not showy, better for relaxed conversation than big impressions.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s walk-in only. Arrive slightly before the dinner rush for the fastest seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes for older kids who enjoy ramen; space is tight and there are no kid-specific menu items, so families with toddlers may find it less comfortable.
Best For
Better for: Deep, comforting broths and a quiet, no-nonsense ramen focus that feels more handcrafted than nearby quick-serve options.
Skip if: You need extensive vegan or gluten-free choices, large group seating, or a more polished, high-design setting.
Totoyama Ramen DTLA
7.8
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Comfort Food Classics
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Totoyama Ramen DTLA sits just off Figueroa pouring rich tonkotsu and shoyu ramen alongside a full slate of rolls, nigiri, and veggie maki. Office workers and arena-bound fans treat it as a casual spot where you can pair a comforting noodle bowl with a Real Dragon Roll or simple tuna roll in one sitting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Kyushu Tonkotsu Ramen with Chashu, Real Dragon Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: A ramen-focused Japanese spot that still offers a full sushi and roll lineup at everyday prices.
Who should go: Casual diners craving ramen plus simple rolls near the arena
When to visit: Pre-game evenings or relaxed weeknight dinners
What to order: Kyushu tonkotsu ramen, Real Dragon Roll, spicy tuna roll
Insider tip: Use lunch specials or combo options to pair a smaller ramen with a roll for better value.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Figueroa and surrounding blocks is limited during events; nearby paid garages at FIGat7th and LA Live usually have space.
Dress code: Completely casual — come as you are, from office attire to game-day outfits.
Noise level: Moderate; conversation is easy on weeknights but can rise during pre-game crowds.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes unless there's an event at Crypto.com Arena, when waits can stretch to 25–35 minutes.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait; quick turnover with plenty of seating.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — veggie maki, vegetable ramen, and tofu add-ons are available.
Vegan options: Limited — a couple of vegetable rolls and some sides work, but ramen broths are not vegan-friendly.
Gluten-free options: Limited — sushi is easier to navigate than ramen; tamari may be available upon request but cross-contact is likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for casual meetups than impression-making first dates; it’s quick, affordable, and comfortable, but not particularly atmospheric.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — they operate on a walk-in model. Outside of arena events, you can usually sit immediately or within a few minutes.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — the menu is approachable, portions are generous, and service is fast. Best for kids 6+ who enjoy noodles or simple rolls.
Best For
Better for: A budget-friendly ramen-plus-sushi combo in one stop, especially for quick meals before events or for solo diners.
Skip if: You want premium sushi, specialty rolls with finesse, or a more atmospheric dining experience — nearby higher-end sushi bars fit those needs better.