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Rice DTLA
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Rice DTLA
7.9
Rice DTLA is a 100% gluten-free modern Japanese restaurant in the Little Tokyo Galleria with a deep menu of vegan-friendly ramen, crispy rice, and small plates alongside seafood options. Opened in 2024, it has quickly become a destination for diners who need strict gluten-free kitchens but still want contemporary Japanese flavors and plant-based choices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Vegan Ramen, Crispy Rice with vegetable toppings, Baked Dynamite Fried Potato (request vegan prep)
Scores:
Value: 6.3
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: A fully gluten-free Japanese kitchen with clearly labeled vegan ramen and plates.
Who should go: Gluten-free diners and vegans wanting modern Japanese
When to visit: Dinner hours when the full ramen and crispy rice menu runs
What to order: Vegan Ramen, vegetable crispy rice, baked potato starter vegan-style
Insider tip: Use the mall’s parking and take the elevator straight to the third floor to avoid circling for street parking.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Little Tokyo Galleria’s structured garage offers ample parking; 2-hour validation is common for dinner. Street parking is limited and often metered until late.
Dress code: Smart casual. Most guests lean modern and slightly dressy, but jeans and a clean top fit right in.
Noise level: Moderate. Conversations are easy at two-tops, though weekend groups and the open room add some energy.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes without a reservation, longer during peak 7–8pm windows.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, especially before 1pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several starters, rice plates, and customizable bowls fit vegetarian needs.
Vegan options: Yes — clearly labeled vegan ramen, crispy rice options, and a few small plates.
Gluten-free options: Excellent — the entire kitchen is 100% gluten-free, including fryers and prep surfaces.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The modern, clean setting and thoughtful menu make it great for a low-pressure first date, especially if one person has dietary restrictions.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually. Walk-ins are common, but for prime weekend dinner hours it helps to arrive before 7pm or be willing to wait 20–40 minutes.
Is it kid-friendly? Moderately. The spacious Galleria layout makes it stroller-friendly, but the menu leans adult-focused. Older kids who enjoy ramen or rice bowls will be comfortable.
Best For
Better for: A fully gluten-free Japanese experience with several vegan options — ideal for mixed-diet groups wanting a polished setting without compromising on safety.
Skip if: You want traditional izakaya comfort foods with heavier fried items or a classic Little Tokyo atmosphere — Rice DTLA skews modern, clean, and dietary-conscious.
Rice DTLA
8.6
Rice DTLA is a 100% gluten-free modern Japanese spot on the third floor of Little Tokyo Galleria, serving brown-rice sushi, ramen, and small plates in a sleek, softly lit dining room. It’s one of downtown’s rare dedicated gluten-free kitchens, drawing celiac diners and date nights alike with careful sourcing and polished service.
Must-Try Dishes:
Blue Crab Hand Roll, Brown Rice Salmon Sushi, Vegan Ramen Bowl
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 6.8
What makes it special: A fully gluten-free Japanese kitchen in downtown Los Angeles.
Who should go: Celiac and gluten-free diners wanting modern Japanese.
When to visit: Dinner or weekend evenings when the room feels lively.
What to order: Blue crab hand roll, vegan ramen, seasonal sashimi plate.
Insider tip: Ask about gluten-free beer or sake to pair with your rolls.