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ZipPicks Awards
Best Business Lunch Restaurants in Sawtelle Japantown
Best Cheap Eats in Sawtelle Japantown
Master Critic Review
Daikokuya
8.3
A high-traffic ramen institution that delivers rich tonkotsu and garlic-forward bowls with dependable speed. It’s casual and loud, but ideal for a no-nonsense lunch that feels like a neighborhood ritual.
Must-Try Dishes:
Daikoku Ramen, Spicy Miso Ramen, Homemade Gyoza
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Classic LA tonkotsu ramen with decades of local loyalty.
Who should go: Teams who want a fast, filling lunch.
When to visit: Early afternoon after the main rush.
What to order: Daikoku ramen, spicy miso, gyoza on the side.
Insider tip: Go for the bar seats for quickest turnaround.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No on-site lot. Free 2-hour metered street parking directly outside on Sawtelle Blvd; free unmetered parking on Beloit Ave (1 min walk). Paid garages on Olympic Blvd from $16/2hrs if meters are full.
Noise level: Loud and energetic — small, crammed space with constant bustle. Expect to raise your voice over the clatter of ramen bowls and chatter.
Weekend wait: 60-90 minutes typical; line forms on the sidewalk outside
Weekday lunch: Minimal to 20 minutes, especially before noon or mid-afternoon
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Vegan Sesame Ramen, White Creamy Vegan Ramen, and Kappa Maki (cucumber roll) are all vegetarian-friendly
Vegan options: Two dedicated vegan ramens: Vegan Sesame Ramen (sesame broth with bean sprouts, green onion, carrot, garlic) and White Creamy Vegan Ramen (creamy soy broth with grilled veggies)
Best For
Better for: A quick, satisfying solo ramen run or casual catch-up with a friend who doesn't mind waiting in line — the rich pork-fat broth is the star
Skip if: You need a quiet conversation spot, hate sidewalk waits, or want a spacious dining room — the space is tiny and the line is real
Hours
Monday10am - 1am
Tuesday10am - 1am
Wednesday10am - 1am
Thursday10am - 1am
Friday10am - 1am
Saturday10am - 1am
Sunday10am - 1am