These days, it seems like ramen imports from Japan just keep showing up state side. And yet every time we get sucked in by the hype, it always hits. Afuri Ramen is no different. The Tokyo noodle and dumpling shop specializes in yuzu flavor, which adds a touch of freshness to the rich and salty dish. Their signature yuzu shio ramen infuses the citrusy zing of yuzu in a flavorful layered broth, and comes with all the fixings: tender chashu, marinated bamboo and a perfectly cooked ajitama “ramen egg” for a balanced meal in a bowl. They also make a delightful gyoza, pan fried to golden perfection with the crispy lacy edges.

The downtown Los Angeles location is, like many Arts District restaurants, spacious with an industrial vibe. It gives “brewery” and certainly serves up plenty of beverages and “small plates” that make for great bar bites. On the drinks side they have plenty of draft beers, a well rounded selection of sake, and a selection of sake, whiskey and shochu flights. It’s a great all day kind of place, where you feel compelled to hang out for a bit, not just come for a meal.