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ZipPicks Awards
Best Late Night Ramen in Culver City
Best Ramen in Culver City
Master Critic Review
AFURI
8.0
Tokyo-based concept featuring signature yuzu-infused shio ramen with bright, citrusy chicken broth that diverges from heavy tonkotsu styles. Known for lighter, refreshing bowls alongside creative items like hazelnut tantanmen and quality dumplings, with outdoor patio seating at The Culver Steps and all-day happy hour at the bar.
Must-Try Dishes:
Yuzu Shio Ramen, Spicy Yuzu Ramen, Chicken Karaage
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Signature yuzu citrus-forward ramen with lighter, refreshing chicken-based broths
Who should go: Diners seeking lighter ramen alternative with unique yuzu flavor
When to visit: Weekday lunch for deals, Friday-Saturday until 10:30pm
What to order: Yuzu Shio ($13), Yuzu Tsukemen dipping noodles, gyoza
Insider tip: Happy hour runs all day at the bar Monday through Friday
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Structure parking at The Culver Steps ($2-4 validation), street parking available on nearby side streets
Dress code: Casual - athleisure and jeans perfectly fine, matches the healthy-leaning concept
Noise level: Moderate - outdoor patio allows easy conversation, indoor can get livelier during peak hours
Weekend wait: 20-30 min typical for prime hours (7-9pm), counter seating moves faster
Weekday lunch: Walk-in friendly - minimal to no wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - vegetable ramen with mushroom broth, veggie dumplings, and tofu options available
Vegan options: Limited but possible - vegetable ramen can be made vegan by omitting egg, confirm broth preparation
Gluten-free options: No - ramen noodles contain wheat, broths may contain soy sauce
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes - the outdoor patio at Culver Steps creates a relaxed, low-pressure atmosphere. Moderate noise level allows conversation, and $13-15 bowls keep it casual without seeming cheap. The yuzu ramen is a great conversation starter.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Generally yes - they don't take reservations. Counter seating is first-come, first-served and moves quickly. For outdoor patio tables on weekend evenings, arrive by 6:30pm or expect a 20-30 minute wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for ages 8+ - simple menu with familiar items like dumplings, but ramen can be messy for younger kids. Outdoor seating is more forgiving for families. No kids' menu but portions are shareable.
Best For
Better for: Lighter, refreshing ramen that won't weigh you down - ideal when you want ramen but not the heavy tonkotsu richness. The yuzu citrus profile is unique in LA's ramen scene, and all-day bar happy hour beats competitors' limited windows.
Skip if: You're craving traditional rich, porky tonkotsu or want the deeply layered complexity of spots like Tsujita or Daikokuya. Also skip if you need gluten-free options - head to Silverlake Ramen instead which offers rice noodles.
Hours
Monday11:30am - 2:30pm, 5pm - 9pm
Tuesday11:30am - 2:30pm, 5pm - 9pm
Wednesday11:30am - 2:30pm, 5pm - 9pm
Thursday11:30am - 2:30pm, 5pm - 9pm
Friday11:30am - 10pm
Saturday11:30am - 10pm
Sunday11:30am - 9pm