California is filled with noodle places, whether you’re craving a bowl of hot pho or refreshingly cool soba. Handmade noodles, broths boiled for hours or days and a variety of creative chefs as well as rich culinary traditions, you can find some of the best noodles outside of Asia throughout California. Check out just a few of the best picks for ramen noodles, pho noodles and other noodle selections.
RakiRakhas an extensive menu and has numerous accolades for many menu items. When it comes to a bowl of noodles, choose the oxtail ramen. Tokyo-born chef and owner frequently combines new trends like ramen burgers with more traditional dishes like a steaming bowl of oxtail ramen made Tokyo-style.
The vegan ramen shop is a modern take on ramen in the newly revitalized Grand Central Market in downtown LA. Using vegetables and vegan ingredients to create a rich broth, you won’t even miss the meat in the OG ramen bowl, which is highly recommended. Get a big bowl of ramen and inventive side dish.
Mensho is the stateside outpost of the popular Tokyo-based ramen chain. Check out the Tori Paitan on a first visit and then try the many different other variations or even enjoy the noodles on their own, without soup.
Try the signature Orenchi Ramen at Orenchi Ramen, a rich pork both bowl of ramen. You can add toppings to the bowl and choose from a variety of side dishes that perfectly accompany your bowl. Wash down your noodles and other choices with a variety of traditional alcoholic beverages.
Ramen Shop in Oakland has a few ramen dishes that merge perfectly with a vast selection of appetizers, so bring a crowd to fill your table. You can also head to Ramen Shop for a weekend brunch or order it to go or delivery. This spot even has an extensive cocktail menu.
Tsujita LA Artisan Noodle has many variations in the LA area and a few outside. With a low key appearance, they are amongst the best ramen shops in the city. Try the Tsukemen, which is boiled for days on end for some of the richest flavor you’ll ever enjoy.
OB Noodle House is a family owned restaurant that also includes another noodle bar and a live music venue. OB Noodle House is the original and has been featured on Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives” and is a prominent part of the local community. You’ll find a variety of delicious pho bowls as well as cold vermicelli noodles, egg noodles and noodle dishes.
Mee Heng Low Noodle House is a favorite neighborhood joint. Despite the list of specials and other menu items that include many different types of noodles, the twice cooked pork is a favorite with everyone.