Tatsu Ramen

For Californians with a serious appreciation for a perfectly crafted bowl of ramen, Tatsu Ramen on Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles has established itself as a true culinary standout. This isn't just a place to grab a quick bite; it's an experience, renowned for its rich, flavorful broths, fresh ingredients, and an atmosphere that consistently earns five-star reviews from its devoted patrons. Whether you're a long-time ramen connoisseur or new to the world of Japanese noodles, Tatsu Ramen promises a memorable and deeply satisfying meal.

What sets Tatsu Ramen apart in the vibrant and competitive Los Angeles food scene is its commitment to both traditional excellence and innovative fusion. From their signature "Bold Broth" to groundbreaking creations like the "Birria Ramen," they push the boundaries of what ramen can be, all while maintaining an exceptional standard of quality. It’s a beloved spot for locals, perfect for a late-night craving or a planned culinary adventure that will leave you wanting to return "soon enough."

Tatsu Ramen is perfectly positioned at 7111 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046, USA. This prime location places it squarely in the heart of the iconic Melrose Avenue, a bustling and trendy street known for its eclectic mix of shops, art, and diverse dining options. Its presence on Melrose makes it easily accessible for residents across Hollywood, West Hollywood, Fairfax, and beyond.

Accessibility, as with many popular spots in Los Angeles, requires a bit of navigation when it comes to parking. While Tatsu Ramen itself does not offer on-site parking, there are often meters available on Melrose Avenue and surrounding streets. Additionally, various public and private parking garages can be found within a short walking distance. Many locals opt for ride-sharing services, especially for late-night visits, to fully enjoy the experience without the hassle of parking. The vibrant street life on Melrose also adds to the overall appeal, making the journey to Tatsu Ramen part of the Los Angeles experience.

Tatsu Ramen on Melrose provides a comprehensive and highly satisfying ramen dining experience, catering to various tastes and dietary needs:

• Dine-In Service: Enjoy your meal in their lively and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant is open late, making it an excellent choice for late-night ramen cravings, with hours extending until 1 AM on weeknights and 3 AM on weekends.
• Extensive Ramen Menu: Tatsu Ramen boasts a wide variety of ramen options, going beyond the typical. Signature broths include:
  • Bold Ramen: A rich, slow-cooked Tonkotsu (pork) broth with a unique blend of bold ingredients, customizable with various spice and garlic levels.
  • Cheeky Ramen: An ultra-rich and creamy chicken broth, a lighter yet equally satisfying option.
  • Hippie Ramen: A popular vegan-friendly broth made from kelp, mushroom, ginger, and onion, topped with fresh spinach.
  • Old Skool Ramen: A classic, mild Tonkotsu broth inspired by traditional Kyushu styles.
  • Red Ramen: Tonkotsu broth infused with their secret umami red sauce.
  • Soul Ramen: Tonkotsu broth enhanced with black garlic oil and Gochujang miso paste.
  • Naked Ramen: A unique, broth-less vegan-friendly curly noodle dish with sweet sesame glaze.
• Innovative Fusion Creations: They are celebrated for their experimental dishes, notably the "Birria Ramen," a fusion of Mexican and Japanese flavors featuring slow-cooked tender beef in an adobo sauce with classic thick ramen noodles.
• Customizable Bowls: Diners can customize their ramen bowls with choices of protein (Kurobuta pork, all-natural chicken breast, organic tofu, ground beef), noodle types (thin, curly vegan, gluten-free), and a variety of toppings (seasoned soft-boiled egg, kikurage mushrooms, scallions, fried onions, corn, spinach, garlic oil, chili paste, cheese topping, and more).
• Side Dishes and Appetizers: Complement your ramen with delicious sides like Spicy Edamame, Garlic Edamame, various Gyoza (chicken, pork), Fried Rice (regular and veggie), Juicy Pork Buns, and other rice bowls (Chicken Rice, Red Rice, Pork Chashu Rice, Gyudon).
• Beverage Selection: A range of Japanese and American drinks are available, including Ramune, Ice Green Tea, and sparkling teas.
• Online Ordering & Delivery: For ultimate convenience, Tatsu Ramen offers online ordering for pickup and delivery through various third-party platforms.

Tatsu Ramen on Melrose Ave is celebrated for several distinguishing features that make it a local favorite:

• Exceptional Broth Quality: The "delicious Bold Broth" is consistently praised as a highlight, indicating a mastery of ramen fundamentals. Customers appreciate the option to customize spiciness and garlic levels, ensuring a perfect bowl every time.
• Innovative Fusion Cuisine: The "Birria Ramen" is a particular standout, described as "the thing of dreams" and an "exemplar of fusion food," showcasing Tatsu Ramen's willingness to experiment and create unique, memorable dishes.
• Diverse Ramen Selection: The extensive variety of ramen types means there's something for everyone, whether you prefer rich Tonkotsu, light chicken broth, or a hearty vegan option.
• Fresh and Delicious Sides: Appetizers like the "spicy edamame" are noted for their "amazing simplicity," proving that even the accompanying dishes are crafted with care.
• Late-Night Dining: Being open until 1 AM on weeknights and 3 AM on weekends makes it a prime destination for late-night ramen cravings, a valuable service in the LA area.
• Five-Star Atmosphere and Service: Patrons consistently rate the "atmosphere, service and food" as "5 stars," highlighting a well-rounded and positive dining experience. The staff is typically noted for being friendly and efficient.
• Customization Options: The ability to tailor your ramen with various proteins, noodles (including gluten-free), and toppings enhances the personal dining experience.
• Strong Local Recommendation: The strong inclination of customers to "highly recommend everyone come and experience" the food, and the intent to "be back soon enough," signifies a loyal and growing local following.

While the provided reviews don't highlight explicit daily happy hour deals, Tatsu Ramen does offer value in other ways:

• Free Gyoza with Purchase: They offer a promotion where you can get a free order of Chicken Gyoza with a purchase over $45, which is a great value for group dining or those looking to try more of their menu.
• Ramen Challenges: For the adventurous, Tatsu Ramen offers a "Godzilla Bowl Ramen Challenge" where finishing a colossal bowl of ramen (equivalent to 4 regular bowls) in under 20 minutes earns you the meal for free. This is a fun and unique "special offer" for competitive eaters.
• Customization Value: The extensive customization options allow diners to build their perfect bowl, effectively getting exactly what they want without feeling limited, which adds to the perceived value.

Given their popularity, Tatsu Ramen's consistent quality and unique offerings are often seen as their primary "special offer." For the most up-to-date information on any seasonal specials or rotating menu items, local diners are encouraged to check Tatsu Ramen's official website or inquire directly during their visit.

To experience the renowned ramen at Tatsu Ramen on Melrose Avenue, you can reach them using the following contact details:

• Address: 7111 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046, USA
• Phone: (323) 879-9332

Given its popularity, especially during peak dining hours and late nights, it's worth noting that there might be a small line upon arrival, though service is typically fast.

For Californians, especially those living in or frequently visiting Los Angeles, Tatsu Ramen on Melrose Avenue is an outstanding choice for a satisfying and memorable ramen experience. Its suitability for locals stems from its exceptional culinary offerings, convenience, and vibrant atmosphere. The "delicious Bold Broth" and the ability to customize levels of spice and garlic ensure a personalized and perfect bowl every time, catering to individual preferences. The innovative "Birria Ramen" exemplifies their commitment to exciting fusion, offering a unique dish that stands out in the crowded LA food scene.

Furthermore, Tatsu Ramen’s extended operating hours, especially their late-night service until 3 AM on weekends, make it an ideal spot for those unexpected ramen cravings after an evening out. The consistently high ratings for "atmosphere, service and food" affirm its reliability and quality. For any local seeking a top-tier ramen experience that combines traditional flavors with exciting innovations, served in a lively environment, Tatsu Ramen on Melrose is a must-visit destination that promises to leave you eager for your next bowl.

Tatsu Ramen

7111 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046, USA