Umemura

For Californians with a deep appreciation for authentic Japanese comfort food, Umemura Ramen in Gardena is a name that resonates. This unassuming gem, located at 1724 W Redondo Beach Blvd, has been serving up delicious and hearty bowls of ramen, alongside other beloved Japanese staples, for decades. It's the kind of place that once you find it, you become a loyal customer, returning time and again for that distinct flavor and comforting experience.

Umemura Ramen isn't just another ramen shop; it's a piece of local history, with some patrons having frequented the establishment since the early 1990s, a testament to its enduring quality and appeal. While it might be described as a "very small restaurant," its size contributes to its intimate, no-frills charm, allowing the focus to remain squarely on the fantastic food. Known for its generous portions, particularly its ramen, fried rice, and gyoza, Umemura has cultivated a loyal following who swear by its delicious flavors and friendly service. This article will explore what makes Umemura a cherished spot for locals seeking an authentic and satisfying Japanese meal in Gardena.

Umemura Ramen is conveniently situated at 1724 W Redondo Beach Blvd, Gardena, CA 90247, USA. This location places it squarely within Gardena's vibrant culinary landscape, a city renowned in Southern California for its strong Japanese community and diverse Asian food scene. Redondo Beach Boulevard is a well-trafficked street, ensuring easy visibility and access for diners.

The restaurant's presence on a major road typically means straightforward navigation for those driving. While specific, dedicated parking facilities for Umemura are not explicitly detailed in all public data, commercial areas along Redondo Beach Boulevard generally offer parking options, whether in shared lots or street parking. Given its popularity and long-standing presence, it's reasonable to expect accessible parking in the vicinity, though it might vary during peak hours. The "small restaurant" size suggests it can be a quick stop for a satisfying meal, perfectly suited for locals seeking efficiency alongside quality. Its consistent appeal across decades highlights its convenient and practical location for the community.

Umemura Ramen focuses on delivering a selection of classic Japanese comfort foods, renowned for their flavor and generous portions.

• Dine-In Experience: Umemura offers a casual and cozy dine-in experience. Despite being a small establishment, the emphasis is on the food and friendly service, creating a comfortable atmosphere for enjoying a meal.

• Extensive Ramen Menu: Ramen is the star of the show at Umemura. Their menu features a variety of ramen bowls including:

  • Shoyu Ramen
  • Miso Ramen
  • Chashu Ramen (with sliced pork)
  • Wonton Ramen
  • Umani Ramen (often described as rich and savory, a standout favorite)
  • Kanitama Ramen
  • Mabo Ramen
  • TanTan Miso Ramen
  • TanTan Shoyu Ramen
  • Tan Men (a vegetable-heavy ramen)
  • Miso Tan Men
  • Vegetarian Miso Tan Men (catering to diverse dietary preferences)
  • Cold Ramen (for warmer days)
  • Wakame Ramen
  • Moyashi Ramen
  • Yakiniku Ramen
  • Kimchi Ramen
  Customers consistently praise the delicious flavor and large bowls of ramen, with many highlighting the excellence of the broth and noodles.

• Exceptional Fried Rice (Chahan): Umemura's fried rice, known as Chahan, is another highly celebrated item. Described by loyal customers as "to die for" and "so light and fluffy," it's considered a must-order alongside ramen. Varieties include classic Fried Rice, Shrimp Fried Rice, Kanitama Chahan, and Gyoza Rice.

• Delicious Gyoza: The gyoza (pot stickers) at Umemura also receive rave reviews, often described as "excellent." They are a popular accompaniment to both ramen and fried rice, praised for their flavor balance and non-overwhelming garlic taste.

• Other Rice Dishes: Beyond Chahan, the menu includes other rice-based options like Umani Rice, Kanitama Rice, and Mabo Rice, offering variety for those who prefer rice over noodles as their main carb.

• Fried Noodle Dishes: For those seeking something different from soup-based ramen, Umemura also offers fried noodle dishes such as Umani Yakisoba and Kata Yakisoba, with the latter noted for its unique crispy noodles and rich sauce.

• Appetizers and Sides: Complementing the main dishes are appetizers like Gyoza and Mabo Tofu Only (Side Order), as well as extra toppings for ramen such as Wonton, Boiled Egg, Cooked Bamboo Shoots, Bean Sprouts, Seaweed, Tofu, Spinach, Beef, Pork, and Shrimp.

• Beverages: A selection of drinks including Japanese Beer, Domestic Beer, Sake (hot and cold), Hot Tea, Calpico, Iced Tea, and Oolong Tea are available to complete the meal.

• Friendly and Attentive Service: Customers consistently report friendly and patient service, with staff actively checking if diners need anything or are satisfied with their meals.

• Pescatarian and Vegetarian Options: The menu caters to diverse dietary preferences, offering both pescatarian and vegetarian choices, ensuring a wide range of guests can find something to savor.

Umemura Ramen stands out in the Gardena dining scene due to several distinct features that have earned it a dedicated following:

• Long-Standing Legacy and Consistent Quality: A significant highlight is its remarkable longevity. With customers having visited since the early 1990s and expressing happiness that it's "still around," Umemura demonstrates an impressive history of consistent quality. This sustained presence speaks volumes about its ability to maintain its high standards and beloved flavors over decades, a rare feat in the restaurant industry.

• Exceptional Flavor and Generous Portions: The food consistently receives rave reviews for its "delicious flavor" and "large bowls." The ramen, in particular, is noted for being "excellent" with "huge portions." This combination of great taste and ample servings provides outstanding value, making it a highly satisfying meal for any appetite. The fried rice (chahan) is also frequently praised as "to die for," and the gyoza as "excellent," forming a trio of must-try items.

• Authentic Japanese Comfort Food: Umemura offers a genuine taste of traditional Japanese comfort food. It delivers that satisfying, hearty, and nostalgic feeling often associated with classic ramen shops, especially those found in Japan. This authenticity, despite its small size, is a major draw for those seeking a true Japanese culinary experience.

• Friendly and Patient Service: Customers consistently commend the staff for being "extremely patient and friendly," always attentive to diner needs and satisfaction. This warm and welcoming service enhances the overall dining experience, making patrons feel valued and comfortable.

• Focus on Core Offerings: While the menu is extensive, Umemura truly excels in its main dishes: ramen, fried rice, and gyoza. The dedication to perfecting these core items ensures a consistently high-quality experience for what many consider to be the essentials of a Japanese comfort meal.

• Casual and Unpretentious Ambiance: Described as a "very small restaurant," Umemura embraces a simple, down-to-earth atmosphere. This lack of pretension allows the food to speak for itself, appealing to those who prioritize delicious meals and friendly service over elaborate decor. It feels like a beloved neighborhood spot.

While the provided customer testimonials do not explicitly detail specific, ongoing promotions for Umemura Ramen, it's customary for long-standing local establishments to have ways of valuing their regular customers or attracting new ones.

To inquire about any current promotions or special offers, locals are encouraged to:

• Call Directly: The most reliable method is to call Umemura Ramen at (310) 217-0970. This will allow you to ask about any daily specials, lunch deals, or seasonal offerings that might not be widely advertised.

• Check Their Online Presence: While not specifically mentioned in the provided information, many restaurants today utilize their own websites or social media platforms (if they have them) to announce promotions. It would be worthwhile to search for Umemura Ramen online to see if they have an official page with such details.

• Inquire In-Person: When visiting the restaurant, don't hesitate to ask the friendly staff about any ongoing specials. Sometimes, the best deals are only available or advertised within the establishment itself.

Given Umemura's reputation for fair pricing and generous portions, any additional promotions would only enhance its already strong value proposition for the Gardena community.

Ready to savor a delicious and hearty meal at Umemura Ramen? Here’s how you can connect with them:

• Address: 1724 W Redondo Beach Blvd, Gardena, CA 90247, USA

• Phone: (310) 217-0970

• Mobile Phone: +1 310-217-0970

It is always a good idea to call ahead for their current operating hours, especially as these can sometimes vary.

For residents across California, particularly those in Gardena and the surrounding South Bay area, Umemura Ramen is an exceptionally suitable dining choice, offering a unique blend of quality, value, and authenticity that fosters deep loyalty.

Firstly, its decades-long presence and consistent quality make it a reliable and trusted institution. In an ever-changing culinary landscape, Umemura's ability to remain a "regular place to visit" for customers since the early 90s speaks volumes about its enduring appeal and commitment to taste. This longevity means locals can count on a consistently excellent meal, a rare and valuable commodity.

Secondly, the combination of delicious flavors and incredibly generous portions sets Umemura apart. The "delicious flavor" of their ramen and the "huge bowls" ensure a satisfying and filling experience every time. The "light and fluffy" shrimp fried rice and "excellent" gyoza further solidify its reputation for high-quality, abundant comfort food. This provides great value, especially appealing for families or anyone looking for a hearty meal that truly satisfies.

Finally, the friendly and patient service contributes significantly to the overall welcoming atmosphere. The staff's attentiveness ensures a comfortable and positive dining experience, making every visit feel like coming home. For Californians seeking a no-frills, authentic Japanese restaurant where the food is consistently fantastic, the portions are ample, and the service is genuinely friendly, Umemura Ramen in Gardena is a true local treasure. It’s a place that transcends being just a restaurant; it’s a beloved community fixture that continues to deliver a taste of tradition.

Umemura

1724 W Redondo Beach Blvd, Gardena, CA 90247, USA