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AFURI
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
AFURI
8.0
Tokyo-based concept featuring signature yuzu-infused shio ramen with bright, citrusy chicken broth that diverges from heavy tonkotsu styles. Known for lighter, refreshing bowls alongside creative items like hazelnut tantanmen and quality dumplings, with outdoor patio seating at The Culver Steps and all-day happy hour at the bar.
Must-Try Dishes:
Yuzu Shio Ramen, Spicy Yuzu Ramen, Chicken Karaage
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Signature yuzu citrus-forward ramen with lighter, refreshing chicken-based broths
Who should go: Diners seeking lighter ramen alternative with unique yuzu flavor
When to visit: Weekday lunch for deals, Friday-Saturday until 10:30pm
What to order: Yuzu Shio ($13), Yuzu Tsukemen dipping noodles, gyoza
Insider tip: Happy hour runs all day at the bar Monday through Friday
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Structure parking at The Culver Steps ($2-4 validation), street parking available on nearby side streets
Dress code: Casual - athleisure and jeans perfectly fine, matches the healthy-leaning concept
Noise level: Moderate - outdoor patio allows easy conversation, indoor can get livelier during peak hours
Weekend wait: 20-30 min typical for prime hours (7-9pm), counter seating moves faster
Weekday lunch: Walk-in friendly - minimal to no wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - vegetable ramen with mushroom broth, veggie dumplings, and tofu options available
Vegan options: Limited but possible - vegetable ramen can be made vegan by omitting egg, confirm broth preparation
Gluten-free options: No - ramen noodles contain wheat, broths may contain soy sauce
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes - the outdoor patio at Culver Steps creates a relaxed, low-pressure atmosphere. Moderate noise level allows conversation, and $13-15 bowls keep it casual without seeming cheap. The yuzu ramen is a great conversation starter.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Generally yes - they don't take reservations. Counter seating is first-come, first-served and moves quickly. For outdoor patio tables on weekend evenings, arrive by 6:30pm or expect a 20-30 minute wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for ages 8+ - simple menu with familiar items like dumplings, but ramen can be messy for younger kids. Outdoor seating is more forgiving for families. No kids' menu but portions are shareable.
Best For
Better for: Lighter, refreshing ramen that won't weigh you down - ideal when you want ramen but not the heavy tonkotsu richness. The yuzu citrus profile is unique in LA's ramen scene, and all-day bar happy hour beats competitors' limited windows.
Skip if: You're craving traditional rich, porky tonkotsu or want the deeply layered complexity of spots like Tsujita or Daikokuya. Also skip if you need gluten-free options - head to Silverlake Ramen instead which offers rice noodles.
AFURI
7.8
Tokyo-based chain specializes in signature yuzu shio ramen with citrus-forward broths and offers dumpling-focused menu alongside cocktails. Dog-friendly patio with heaters creates relaxed California dining vibe in The Culver Steps plaza.
Must-Try Dishes:
Yuzu Shio Ramen, Tonkotsu Tantanmen, Crispy Pork Gyoza
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Signature yuzu-infused broths with full-service bar and scenic outdoor seating
Who should go: Casual diners seeking lighter ramen with cocktails and patio vibes
When to visit: Happy hour Monday-Friday all day at bar and patio
What to order: Yuzu shio for citrus brightness, gyoza, hazelnut tantanmen
Insider tip: Dog-friendly patio with heaters and they even have ramen for dogs
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free parking in The Culver Steps structure with validation - street parking also available on nearby streets
Dress code: Casual comfortable - athletic wear and flip flops perfectly fine for outdoor patio vibe
Noise level: Moderate to lively - plaza atmosphere means ambient chatter but conversation flows easily
Weekend wait: 20-30 min typical, outdoor seating turns faster than indoor
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait - walk-ins usually seated within 10 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - vegetarian ramen options with plant-based broths and seasonal vegetable toppings
Vegan options: Limited but available - vegan ramen can be prepared, confirm broth and toppings with server
Gluten-free options: Challenging - traditional ramen noodles contain wheat, rice bowl alternatives available
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual vibes - outdoor patio setting keeps things relaxed and low-pressure, cocktails available if you want to extend the evening, but not romantic-intimate if that's the goal
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch and happy hour usually no problem as walk-in, weekend dinner reserve ahead or expect 20-30 min wait for outdoor seating which moves faster
Is it kid-friendly? Excellent for kids - casual outdoor setting means no stress about noise, kids menu available, ramen appeals to most ages, and The Culver Steps plaza gives them space to move around before/after
Good for groups? Yes - outdoor patio accommodates larger parties easily, shareable gyoza and varied menu means everyone finds something, casual vibe keeps it easy
What if I bring my dog? Dog paradise - patio is pet-friendly with water bowls, they literally have ramen for dogs on the menu, outdoor heaters keep it comfortable year-round
Best For
Better for: Choose AFURI over traditional ramen spots when you want lighter citrus-forward broths instead of heavy tonkotsu, need outdoor seating with your dog, want cocktails with your ramen, or prefer The Culver Steps plaza atmosphere over strip mall ramen joints
Skip if: You're craving rich traditional tonkotsu ramen, want a quiet intimate dinner setting, need authentic Tokyo hole-in-the-wall experience, or prefer indoor dining - head to Tsujita LA or Daikokuya instead