Ajisen Ramen

For ramen enthusiasts across California, finding that perfect bowl — a harmonious blend of rich broth, springy noodles, and tender toppings — is a continuous quest. In the heart of the San Gabriel Valley, Ajisen Ramen in Temple City stands as a long-standing contender, offering a comforting and flavorful experience that aims to satisfy those deep ramen cravings. While it may appear "unassuming from the outside," as many locals might note, this establishment has built a reputation for its hearty bowls that keep patrons coming back.

Ajisen Ramen is part of a global chain that originated in Kumamoto, Japan, in 1968, famously known for its "World-Famous White Soup" – a rich Tonkotsu (pork bone) broth that is slow-cooked for hours. This foundational element, along with their unique straight noodles, forms the backbone of their extensive menu. While individual experiences can vary, the Temple City location strives to deliver on the brand's promise of delicious and satisfying ramen. This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of Ajisen Ramen in Temple City, helping California residents discover what makes this a reliable spot for a quick and flavorful Japanese meal.

Whether you're seeking a classic Tonkotsu, a spicy kick, or a unique curry ramen, Ajisen Ramen offers a broad selection designed to cater to diverse palates. Its dedication to a signature broth and commitment to a straightforward, satisfying experience solidifies its place within the vibrant San Gabriel Valley dining scene.

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Ajisen Ramen in Temple City is located at 9202 E Las Tunas Dr, Temple City, CA 91780, USA. This address places it squarely within Temple City, a well-connected and easily accessible city in the San Gabriel Valley of Los Angeles County. Las Tunas Drive is a significant commercial artery, providing good visibility and straightforward access for drivers from various parts of Temple City and neighboring communities such as Arcadia, San Gabriel, and Rosemead.

The restaurant is situated in a plaza, and public information indicates that "Parking: Private Lot" is available. This is a significant convenience for diners in California, where parking can often be a challenge in bustling commercial areas. While specific comments on parking availability at this exact location weren't provided in the recent reviews, the presence of a private lot generally suggests a more convenient parking experience compared to relying solely on street parking. However, as with any popular establishment during peak dining hours, the lot may still experience high demand.

For those utilizing public transportation, Las Tunas Drive is served by various Metro bus lines, offering connections to other parts of Temple City and the broader Los Angeles County public transit network. This makes Ajisen Ramen accessible for a wide range of California residents, whether they arrive by car or public transit, seeking a convenient spot for their ramen fix.

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Ajisen Ramen in Temple City offers a comprehensive menu centered around its famous Tonkotsu ramen, complemented by a variety of other Japanese comfort foods and a focus on efficient service.

• Dine-In Service: The restaurant provides a casual and straightforward dining environment. While described as "unassuming" and potentially "dingier" by some, the emphasis is on the food and efficient delivery, making it suitable for a "quick bowl of ramen."
• Extensive Ramen Menu: Ajisen Ramen's core offering is its diverse range of ramen bowls, all featuring their signature "World-Famous White Soup" (Tonkotsu pork broth) and unique straight noodles.
  • Classic Ramen Options: Includes their signature "Ajisen Ramen," "B.B.Q. Pork Ramen," "Shoyu Ramen," and "Miso Ramen."
  • Specialty Ramen:
    • Tender Pork Ribs Ramen: Available in both regular and spicy versions, featuring tender pork ribs.
    • Spicy Beef Ramen: (Note: One review mentioned this dish at the Temple City location lacked its usual spiciness, but was a former "golden standard" from their Irvine location.)
    • Spicy Miso Ramen: A shrimp-flavored pork soup base with a spicy kick.
    • Pork Cutlet Curry Ramen: Crispy pork cutlet served with curry sauce and ramen.
    • Roast Black Garlic Oil Ramen (Kuro Ramen): Infused with rich black garlic oil.
    • New York Steak Cutlet Ramen: Featuring tender New York steak cutlet.
    • Black Truffle Ramen: A premium option with black truffle.
    • Tan-Tan Men: A spicy ramen option containing peanuts.
    • Tom Yum Seafood Ramen: A hot and spicy seafood broth.
    • Grilled Hokkaido Scallop Ramen: Another seafood option with a shrimp-flavored pork soup base.
  • Vegetarian Option: "Assorted Vegetable Ramen" with a medley of fresh vegetables.
• Rice Dishes (Donburi & Curry Rice): Beyond ramen, they offer a variety of rice-based meals.
  • Curry Rice: Options include Curry Rice with Pork Cutlet, Fried Chicken, Beef, and New York Steak Cutlet.
  • Rice Sets: Such as Grilled Eel Rice Set, Teriyaki Salmon Rice Set, Teriyaki Chicken Rice Set, Beef Bowl, and Pork Cutlet Rice Set.
• Udon: Including "Chicken Curry Udon."
• Appetizers & Sides: A selection of popular Japanese appetizers:
  • Gyoza - Dumplings (5 Pcs.): Pan-fried dumplings, highly rated by customers.
  • Fried Garlic Shakers: Available on tables for "extra flavor enhancement," a unique and appreciated feature.
  • Other common appetizers like spring rolls, edamame, and tempura are often found on Ajisen menus.
• Lunch Specials: Offerings such as Curry Rice with Pork Cutlet, Tender Pork Ribs Ramen, Spicy Beef Ramen, and various rice sets at special pricing during lunch hours (e.g., 11:00 AM - 2:30 PM on weekdays).
• Takeout and Delivery: Ajisen Ramen in Temple City offers takeout and delivery services through popular platforms like DoorDash and Uber Eats, providing convenience for enjoying their food at home.
• Beverages: A selection of sodas and potentially Japanese-inspired drinks.

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Ajisen Ramen in Temple City, despite its "unassuming" exterior, offers several notable features and highlights that contribute to its appeal and standing among ramen lovers in California.

• Hearty and Flavorful Broth: The "broth is delicious and balanced," a consistent strong point for Ajisen Ramen, which is globally known for its "World-Famous White Soup" (Tonkotsu pork broth) that is slow-cooked for hours. This rich, savory foundation is key to a satisfying ramen experience.
• Fried Garlic Shakers on Tables: A highly appreciated and unique feature. Customers "love the fried garlic shakers on the table for that extra flavor enhancement it gives." This allows diners to customize the intensity of their ramen's flavor, adding a distinct aromatic and crunchy element.
• Extensive Ramen Variety: The menu offers a broad selection beyond just basic Tonkotsu, including Spicy Miso, Tender Pork Ribs Ramen, Curry Ramen, Black Garlic Oil Ramen, and even Black Truffle Ramen. This diversity caters to a wide range of preferences and encourages repeat visits to explore different flavors.
• Speed and Efficiency: Ajisen is noted as a "great place to stop for a quick bowl of ramen," indicating that food is served efficiently, making it suitable for those on a time crunch.
• Accommodating Staff: While described as "not the most enthusiastic or energetic," the staff is noted as "accommodating," ensuring that basic needs are met and the dining experience is smooth.
• Consistent Brand Quality (Globally): As a large international chain established in 1968 in Japan, Ajisen Ramen adheres to certain brand standards for its broth and noodles, which are made using a "special blend of water and flour" passed down through generations. This heritage contributes to a recognizable flavor profile for those familiar with the brand.
• Lunch Specials Value: The availability of lunch specials offers a more economical way to enjoy some of their popular ramen and rice dishes, providing good value for money.

While some aspects like the texture of the chashu or consistency of spice levels in certain dishes might vary, the core strengths of Ajisen Ramen — its flavorful broth, customizable garlic addition, and broad menu — make it a solid choice for a casual and satisfying ramen meal.

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Ajisen Ramen in Temple City offers various value-driven options through its menu structure, particularly its lunch specials, which serve as ongoing "promotions" for its customers in California. While specific, time-limited discounts might not be consistently advertised, the restaurant provides clear ways to enjoy its offerings at a good value.

• Lunch Specials: A key promotional aspect is their dedicated "Lunch Special" menu. These specials typically offer popular ramen bowls or rice sets at a competitive price point, making it an attractive option for midday diners. Examples of items often included in lunch specials feature "Tender Pork Ribs Ramen," "Spicy Beef Ramen," "Curry Rice with Pork Cutlet," and various "Rice Set" combinations (e.g., Teriyaki Chicken or Salmon Rice Set). These specials are generally available during specific weekday hours (e.g., 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM).
• Combo Meals: While not explicitly detailed as "combos" in all online menus, many of their "Ramen" and "Rice" dishes come with various toppings and components that effectively create a value-packed meal. For instance, a "Pork Cutlet Curry Ramen" combines two popular dishes into one hearty serving.
• Gyoza as a Value Add: The "Gyoza - Dumplings (5 Pcs.)" are frequently ordered and highly liked, suggesting they offer good value as an appetizer or complement to a ramen bowl, especially if purchased as part of a meal.
• Takeout/Delivery Platform Specials: While not directly from the restaurant, third-party delivery apps like DoorDash and Uber Eats often run their own promotions, such as "free delivery" or "percentage off" for orders from Ajisen Ramen. Locals checking these platforms might find additional savings.

For the most current and specific promotions, California residents are encouraged to visit Ajisen Ramen Temple City's official website, check their in-store menus, or inquire directly with staff. Their commitment to offering well-priced lunch options is a consistent benefit for local patrons.

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For those looking to enjoy a hearty bowl of ramen at Ajisen Ramen in Temple City, here are the essential contact details:

Address: 9202 E Las Tunas Dr, Temple City, CA 91780, USA

Phone: (626) 292-3888

Mobile Phone: +1 626-292-3888

The restaurant has specific operating hours that often include a midday break, so it's advisable to check these before visiting:

• Mondays to Thursdays: 11:00 AM - 2:30 PM & 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
• Fridays: 11:00 AM - 2:30 PM & 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
• Saturdays: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
• Sundays: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

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For residents of California, particularly within the bustling San Gabriel Valley, Ajisen Ramen in Temple City presents a highly suitable option for those seeking a satisfying and reliable ramen experience. Despite its unassuming exterior, its core strengths resonate well with local preferences for convenience, flavor, and value.

Firstly, the restaurant's primary appeal lies in its "hearty and flavorful bowls" of ramen. The consistency of their "delicious and balanced" Tonkotsu broth, a hallmark of the Ajisen brand, ensures a comforting and familiar taste. For Californians who appreciate a robust broth as the foundation of their ramen, Ajisen delivers. The unique addition of "fried garlic shakers on the table" is a standout feature, empowering diners to customize their flavor profile to their exact liking, a level of personalization often sought after by food enthusiasts.

Secondly, Ajisen Ramen in Temple City is an excellent choice for a "quick bowl of ramen." Its efficient service ensures that diners can enjoy a satisfying meal without excessive waiting, making it ideal for lunch breaks or spontaneous cravings. This focus on speed, combined with the availability of a private parking lot, enhances its convenience for busy locals navigating the San Gabriel Valley.

Finally, while expectations for atmosphere or specific nuances like chashu texture might vary, the restaurant consistently provides a solid, accessible ramen option with a diverse menu that caters to many tastes, from classic Tonkotsu to various spicy and curry renditions. For a reliable, flavorful, and convenient ramen fix in Temple City, Ajisen Ramen remains a highly suitable and worthwhile destination for local Californians.

Ajisen Ramen

9202 E Las Tunas Dr, Temple City, CA 91780, USA