Shin-Sen-Gumi
This mini chain (you'll find its other spots in West LA, Fountain Valley, Monterey Park, and Gardena) has made name for itself thanks to its totally customizable bowls of soup, with a choose-your-own-adventure-style menu that leads to the exact dish you're craving. Beyond ramen, they also serve sushi and udon, and whip up some ultra-tasty and authentic yakitori: bite-size pieces of charbroiled chicken that are skewered on bamboo sticks and either sprinkled with salt or topped with teriyaki.
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Shin-Sen-Gumi became one of the area’s first breakout ramen stars when it opened in Gardena, partly by providing so much flexibility. A creamy tonkotsu base comes topped with juicy pork chashu, punchy pickled ginger, and scallions, but each bowl is a canvas for customization; you dictate your noodle firmness, soup oil level, and saltiness. From there, Shin-Sen-Gumi provides a choice of over three-dozen bonus toppings, including cod roe, pig ear, and a scoop of borderline dangerous Carolina Reaper pepper paste. Shin-Sen-Gumi also runs LA ramen locations in Rosemead, Alhambra, West LA, Little Tokyo, and Downtown.
How to order: Check the specific location for dine in and reservations. Order for pickup via their website or delivery via UberEats and other apps.
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