LA Jolla's Best Ramen [Updated 2024]

I've slurped my way through 13 different ramen shops in the area, and let me tell you, it's been a delicious journey. From rich tonkotsu to savory miso broth, I've tasted it all.

So, if you're craving a warm bowl of noodles on a chilly day, or just want to explore the best that LA Jolla has to offer, look no further! Here are my top picks for the best ramen joints around town.

Let's dig in!

Blue Ocean / Harumama

Highlights
Stunning views
Unique dishes
Exceptional service
Best sushi and sake

First of all, let's talk about the stunning views. The restaurant is located right by the ocean and offers a breathtaking view that will make your meal even more enjoyable. While you're waiting for your food, take a moment to admire the waves crashing against the shore.

Now, let's move on to the food. Blue Ocean / Harumama offers unique dishes that are not only delicious but also visually pleasing. I highly recommend trying their ramen dishes, which are full of flavor and cooked to perfection. Don't forget to try their sushi as well; it's some of the best in town! And if you're feeling adventurous, ask for their sake recommendations - they have an exceptional selection.

But what really sets this place apart is their exceptional service. From the moment you walk in, you'll be greeted with a smile and treated like royalty throughout your entire meal. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and will gladly answer any questions you may have.

Overall, I had an amazing experience at Blue Ocean / Harumama. If you're looking for a restaurant with stunning views, unique dishes, exceptional service, and some of the best sushi and sake in LA Jolla, look no further!

You might also want to check out the best seafood boil in San Diego.

Kinoyume Sushi and Grill

Highlights
Spicy salmon is actually spicy
Friendly and accommodating service
Delicious strawberry sake
OMG roll is a must-try
Excellent overall sushi quality

First off, I have to say that the spicy salmon in their sushi rolls is no joke. It's actually spicy, which is a rarity these days. The service was also top-notch - the staff were friendly and accommodating, making me feel right at home.

Now let's talk about their drinks. I had the pleasure of trying their delicious strawberry sake, which paired perfectly with my sushi rolls. It provided a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the sushi, leaving me wanting more.

Speaking of sushi, let me tell you about the OMG roll. It definitely lives up to its name - it was amazing. The combination of flavors and textures made it a must-try for any sushi lover.

Overall, Kinoyume Sushi and Grill exceeded my expectations in terms of both food quality and service. If you're looking for excellent sushi in LA Jolla, this is the place to be.

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in San Diego.

Shiku

Highlights
Fresh sushi
Attentive staff
Accommodates requests
Fast and friendly service
Variety of sushi options

First things first, I have to say that the sushi at Shiku is so fresh that it makes me question if they have their own private fish tank in the kitchen. The staff is not only attentive but also accommodating to my requests. For example, I like my ramen with a little extra spice and they were happy to oblige.

The service was both fast and friendly, which means that you can enjoy your meal without feeling like you're being rushed out the door. One thing that stood out to me was the variety of sushi options available on their menu. You can choose from classic favorites like California rolls or try something new like their specialty sashimi rolls.

Overall, Shiku is definitely a spot for those who want quality food without any fuss. If you're looking for a laid-back atmosphere with great sushi and ramen options, then you need to check this place out! With such fantastic highlights, it's no wonder Shiku has become one of my top picks for best ramen in LA Jolla.

You might also want to check out the best tacos in San Diego.

The Bistro at the Strand

Highlights
High quality sushi
Outdoor seating
Takeout available

First of all, let me just say that I was blown away by the quality of their sushi! It was so fresh and expertly prepared that I almost forgot I was there to try their ramen. But fear not, dear readers, their ramen did not disappoint either.

I ordered the pork belly ramen and it was a delightful blend of rich broth, tender noodles, and melt-in-your-mouth pork. The portion size was generous but not overwhelming, leaving just enough room for some of their amazing appetizers.

The outdoor seating area provided a lovely atmosphere for dining and people watching. It's perfect for those who want to enjoy the beautiful LA Jolla weather while indulging in some delicious food.

And for those on-the-go or wanting to eat at home, they also have takeout available which is great for those busy days when you just can't make it to the restaurant.

Overall, The Bistro at the Strand is definitely a must-visit spot for anyone looking for high-quality ramen in LA Jolla. Their sushi alone is worth the trip!

You might also want to check out the best sushi in San Diego.

URBN Sushi - La Jolla

Highlights
Amazing sushi and service
Diverse menu with vegetarian options
Spicy garlic edamame is a must-have
Spicy baked salmon roll recommended
Delicious seared salmon nigiri

First off, let's be real, I know I'm here to review their ramen, but I can't ignore the fact that their sushi is amazing! The diverse menu has something for everyone, including those who don't eat meat. As a vegetarian myself, I appreciate when restaurants have options beyond just a boring salad.

Now back to the ramen. While it may not be their specialty, URBN Sushi still serves up a pretty decent bowl of noodles. But what really stood out to me were the appetizers. The spicy garlic edamame was so addictive that I couldn't stop popping them in my mouth. And the spicy baked salmon roll? Chef's kiss. It was recommended by our server and it did not disappoint.

And let's talk about the seared salmon nigiri... oh my goodness! It was so deliciously melt-in-your-mouth that it made me forget about ramen altogether (just kidding, nothing can replace ramen in my heart).

Overall, URBN Sushi - La Jolla is definitely worth checking out if you're in the area and looking for some delicious Japanese cuisine. Just don't forget to order those appetizers!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in LA Jolla.

Shōwa Ramen

Highlights
Balanced broth
Delicious flavor
Beautiful branding

One of the things that stood out to me was their balanced broth. It had the perfect blend of flavors without being overpowering or too salty. The noodles were cooked to perfection and had a great texture.

But what really blew me away was the delicious flavor of their signature Shōwa Ramen. The combination of their special sauce, pork belly, and soft-boiled egg made for a mouth-watering experience that left me craving more.

Aside from the amazing taste, I also appreciated the beautiful branding of the restaurant. From the moment you walk in, you're transported to a traditional Japanese ramen shop with modern twists. The ambiance is cozy yet vibrant, making it a great spot for both solo dining and group outings.

Overall, Shōwa Ramen is definitely one of my top picks for best ramen in LA Jolla. If you're looking for a delicious bowl of ramen with an unforgettable taste and aesthetic experience, this is definitely the place to go!

You might also want to check out the best pizza in San Diego.

Nozomi Sushi La Jolla

Highlights
Pink Panda roll
Samurai roll
Dynamite roll
Great for special occasions

First of all, let me say that this place is not just about ramen. In fact, they have a wide range of sushi rolls that will make your taste buds dance with joy. I highly recommend trying their Pink Panda roll, which is a perfect combination of salmon and tuna topped with spicy mayo and eel sauce. Trust me; it's delicious.

But let's get back to ramen. Nozomi Sushi La Jolla didn't disappoint in this department either. Although they don't have many options when it comes to ramen, the one they do have is pretty amazing. Their Samurai Ramen has a rich broth that will warm up your soul and tender chashu pork that will melt in your mouth.

If you're feeling adventurous, try their Dynamite Roll, which lives up to its name with its spicy kick. This restaurant also has an elegant ambiance, making it perfect for special occasions or date night.

In conclusion, while Nozomi Sushi La Jolla may not be known as a ramen spot, their Samurai Ramen is definitely worth trying. And while you're there, why not indulge in some sushi rolls too? You won't regret it!

You might also want to check out the best burger in San Diego.

Izakaya Underbelly

Highlights
Aesthetically pleasing atmosphere
Great ramen
Nice drinks

Upon entering, I was immediately struck by the aesthetically pleasing atmosphere. The dim lighting and Japanese-inspired decor gave me a sense of calm and comfort. As I perused their menu, I couldn't help but notice the variety of drink options available. From classic cocktails to unique sake blends, there was something for everyone.

Now on to the main event - the ramen. Let me tell you, the ramen at Izakaya Underbelly is top-notch. The broth had a rich umami flavor that left my taste buds dancing with joy. The noodles were cooked to perfection and the toppings were plentiful without being overwhelming. It was clear that great care went into each bowl.

I also appreciated how accommodating the staff was when it came to customizing my order. As someone who likes their ramen on the spicier side, they were more than happy to add extra chili oil for me.

Overall, if you're looking for a place with great ramen and nice drinks in LA Jolla, Izakaya Underbelly should definitely be on your list. Just make sure to come hungry because these bowls are not for the faint of heart!

You might also want to check out the best seafood in San Diego.

Ramen Ryoma Pacific Beach

Highlights
Fresh and tasty food
Friendly staff
Pretty decor
Mouth-watering pot stickers
Delicious volcano and dragon rolls

As soon as I stepped into the restaurant, I was greeted by a friendly staff who showed me to my seat. The decor was pretty and definitely set the tone for an enjoyable dining experience.

Now let's talk about the food! The pot stickers were mouth-watering and left me wanting more. But the real star of the show was the ramen itself. It tasted incredibly fresh and had just the right amount of seasoning. Every bite was a party in my mouth!

If you're feeling adventurous, I highly recommend trying their volcano and dragon rolls. They were absolutely delicious and definitely worth every penny.

Overall, my visit to Ramen Ryoma Pacific Beach was delightful. The food was fresh, tasty, and satisfying, while the staff made sure I had everything I needed to enjoy my meal. If you're looking for some of the best ramen in LA Jolla with a fun atmosphere, then look no further than Ramen Ryoma Pacific Beach!

You might also want to check out the best brunch in San Diego.

Sushi Mori

Highlights
Fresh daily fish
Beautiful sushi rolls
Top quality service
Family-owned for 15 years

First of all, let me start by saying that Sushi Mori is a family-owned restaurant that has been around for 15 years. And I must say, they've got it right! From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with top-quality service. The staff was knowledgeable and friendly, and the atmosphere was cozy and inviting.

Now, let's talk about the food! The first thing that caught my attention was their fresh daily fish. You could taste the difference compared to other sushi restaurants in LA Jolla that claim to have fresh fish. It was absolutely delicious and melted in my mouth like butter.

But what really impressed me were their beautifully crafted sushi rolls. They were like pieces of art on a plate. Each roll had a unique flavor profile and they were all absolutely delicious. My personal favorite was the Dragon Roll which had tempura shrimp, avocado, eel sauce, and tobiko.

Overall, Sushi Mori exceeded my expectations with their fresh daily fish, beautiful sushi rolls, and exceptional service. If you're looking for great sushi in LA Jolla or even just craving some tasty ramen options nearby, then Sushi Mori should definitely be at the top of your list!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Downtown San Diego.

Silver Lake Ramen - UTC

Highlights
Delicious ramen
Japanese fried chicken
Marinated eggs well-cooked
Unique truffle garlic ramen
Polite and friendly staff

First of all, the ramen was absolutely delicious! The broth was rich and flavorful, and the noodles were cooked to perfection. But that's not all - the Japanese fried chicken was a game changer. It was crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making it the perfect accompaniment to my ramen.

The marinated eggs were also a highlight for me. They were well-cooked and added an extra layer of flavor to my meal. And if you're looking for something unique, I highly recommend trying their truffle garlic ramen. It's a one-of-a-kind dish that will tantalize your taste buds.

But what really stood out to me during my visit was the polite and friendly staff. They made sure that everything was perfect from start to finish, and they were more than happy to answer any questions I had about their menu.

Overall, I would definitely recommend Silver Lake Ramen - UTC to anyone who is looking for a delicious bowl of ramen in LA Jolla. Their attention to detail, unique flavors, and excellent service make them stand out from other ramen restaurants in the area.

You might also want to check out the best mexican restaurant in San Diego.

Himitsu

Highlights
Attentive service
Top quality sushi
Great sake selection
Lovely atmosphere

Firstly, I was blown away by the attentive service. From the moment I entered, the waitstaff greeted me with a warm welcome and guided me to my table. They were always on hand to answer any questions and made sure my dining experience was nothing short of excellent.

Now let's talk about the main attraction - the ramen. While Himitsu is known for its top-quality sushi, their ramen did not disappoint either. The broth was rich and flavorful, with a perfect balance of spices and herbs that left me wanting more. The noodles had just the right amount of chewiness, making each bite a delight.

To accompany my meal, I chose from their great selection of sake, which only added to the overall experience. It paired perfectly with the ramen and elevated my taste buds to new heights.

Lastly, I have to mention the ambiance. The beautiful decor creates a lovely atmosphere that’s both cozy and elegant at once. It's an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or even just catching up with friends over delicious food.

Overall, if you're looking for an unforgettable ramen experience in LA Jolla, Himitsu is definitely worth checking out!

Kazanori Pokemoon Express

Highlights
Corn in ramen
Spicy options
Reasonable prices
Consistent menu

First of all, the restaurant has a consistent menu which means you won't be surprised by sudden changes in their offerings. This is always a plus point for me as I like to know what I'm getting into.

Moving on to the food, one of the standout features at Kazanori Pokemoon Express is the addition of corn in their ramen. Now, some people might think that's strange, but trust me when I say it adds a unique sweetness and texture to the dish that will leave your taste buds dancing.

If you're someone who likes a bit of heat in your ramen, then you'll be happy to know that they have some spicy options available as well. Just make sure you have a glass of water handy!

Another great thing about this place is their reasonable prices. You won't have to break the bank to enjoy some delicious ramen here.

Overall, if you're looking for a playful yet professional spot with consistent menu and tasty ramen with corn, then Kazanori Pokemoon Express should definitely be on your list.