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ZipPicks Awards
Best Late Night Ramen in Culver City
Best Ramen in Culver City
Master Critic Review
Moto Ramen
7.9
Vibes:
Hidden Gems Heaven
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Comfort Food Classics
Okinawa-inspired neighborhood ramen shop from the team behind Ramen Yukinoya, featuring black garlic tonkotsu, spicy tan tan men, and vegan options. Established in 2020 with a local, laid-back vibe and covered patio seating, offering generous portions with flavorful broths and attentive service from owners Sarah Kim-Jenkins and Yuki Nakamoto.
Must-Try Dishes:
Black Garlic Tonkotsu, Spicy Tan Tan Men, Chicken Karaage
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Locally-owned Okinawan-style ramen with black garlic tonkotsu specialty since 2020
Who should go: Budget-conscious locals seeking generous portions and neighborhood atmosphere
When to visit: Lunch service for bento boxes, dinner closes 9pm
What to order: Black garlic tonkotsu, cold tan tan men, pork buns
Insider tip: Owner Sarah personally responds to dietary questions and menu customizations
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available on Washington Blvd and side streets, typically easy to find. Small lot behind building with 6-8 spaces. Metered until 8pm on weekdays.
Dress code: Super casual - jeans, t-shirts, athleisure all normal. Neighborhood spot where locals come as-is.
Noise level: Quiet to moderate - easy conversation even when busy. Intimate 30-seat space with sound-absorbing patio.
Weekend wait: 15-25 min wait common 6-8pm Friday/Saturday, but turnover is quick with ramen service
Weekday lunch: Minimal to no wait - bento boxes move fast, in and out in 30 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - vegetable ramen with mushroom broth, vegetable buns, and several appetizers. About 5-6 options.
Vegan options: Yes - dedicated vegan broth available, can customize most vegetarian dishes. Owners very accommodating per reviews.
Gluten-free options: Limited - no GF noodles, but can do rice bowls and some appetizers. Call ahead for Sarah's recommendations.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if casual fits your vibe - cozy covered patio is surprisingly romantic for a ramen shop, prices won't stress anyone's budget, and food arrives quick so no awkward long waits. Skip if you need impressive/fancy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes - they don't take reservations. It's first-come, first-served. Weekday dinner and all lunch service usually seats immediately. Friday/Saturday 6-8pm expect 15-25 min, but bar seating often available.
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely - simple menu kids understand, quick service, casual atmosphere where noise is fine. Smaller portions available. Locals bring families regularly. High chairs available.
How does it compare to Ramen Yukinoya? Same owners but different vibe - Moto is more neighborhood/casual with Okinawan style and black garlic specialty. Yukinoya is their original, slightly more traditional. Both excellent, Moto feels more 'hidden gem' local.
Is the patio heated? Yes - covered patio has heaters for cooler LA evenings. Actually preferred seating for most diners when weather cooperates.
Can I get takeout? Yes - packages broth separately so noodles don't get soggy. Bento boxes particularly good for takeout. Online ordering available.
Best For
Better for: Generous portions at budget prices ($12-15 bowls), personalized owner attention, vegan/vegetarian accommodations, neighborhood atmosphere without West LA pretension, unique black garlic tonkotsu you won't find elsewhere
Skip if: You want ultra-authentic Tokyo-style ramen, need reservations for large groups (seats 30 max), expect full bar service (beer/sake only), or want late-night hours (closes 9pm, not midnight-ramen spot despite 'late night' category)
Hours
Monday11am - 2:30pm, 4:30pm - 9pm
Tuesday11am - 2:30pm, 4:30pm - 9pm
Wednesday11am - 2:30pm, 4:30pm - 9pm
Thursday11am - 2:30pm, 4:30pm - 9pm
Friday11am - 2:30pm, 4:30pm - 9pm
Saturday4:30pm - 9pm
Sunday11am - 2:30pm, 4:30pm - 9pm