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ZipPicks Awards
Best Ramen in Sawtelle Japantown
Master Critic Review
Shin-Sen-Gumi Yakitori Izakaya
8.0
A charcoal-grilled yakitori and tonkotsu ramen joint on Sawtelle's Japanese corridor built around the traditional izakaya format—staff shout greetings in unison, the room stays loud by design, and the menu rewards groups who order across both the skewer and ramen sides of the kitchen. The dual specialization in charcoal-grilled skewers and long-simmered pork broth gives tables two distinct ordering lanes, which is why it draws late-night crowds who want the full Japanese pub experience rather than a quiet bowl of ramen.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tonkotsu Ramen, Yakitori Skewers, Wontons
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Late-night izakaya on Sawtelle's Japanese corridor serving charcoal-grilled yakitori alongside rich tonkotsu ramen in a rowdy, communal atmosphere.
Who should go: Groups craving izakaya-style sharing after 10 PM
When to visit: Late night for the full izakaya energy and crowd
What to order: Start with a round of yakitori skewers for the table, split a bowl of tonkotsu ramen, and add wontons and spinach as shared sides.
Insider tip: Ask your server about off-menu specials or daily features
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No on-site lot or valet. Public paid lot at Massachusetts Ave & Corinth Ave (1-min walk). Free street parking on Corinth Ave, metered spots on Massachusetts Ave. South end of Sawtelle strip so less competitive than the north blocks—read meter signs carefully.
Dress code: Casual—jeans, t-shirts, sneakers all standard. It's an izakaya, not a white-tablecloth spot.
Noise level: Loud by design—staff shout traditional Japanese greetings in unison when you walk in and throughout your meal. Expect an energetic, boisterous room. Not the place for quiet conversation.
Weekend wait: Typically around 10–15 minutes on Saturday nights without a reservation. Reservations available for 6:00–7:30pm window only, booked through their site ($15/person no-show fee).
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Solid selection: grilled vegetable skewers (eggplant, okra, shiitake, shishito, Japanese yam), edamame, agedashi tofu, green gyoza, okonomiyaki, goma spinach, super tofu salad, and vegetarian ramen.
Vegan options: Limited confirmed options: edamame and grilled vegetable skewers (eggplant, okra, shiitake, shishito). Many other vegetable dishes may contain dashi, egg, or mayo—ask staff about specific preparations.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you want a fun, casual date — not a quiet romantic one. This is a traditional izakaya where staff shout Japanese greetings in unison, the energy is high, and the noise level makes intimate conversation difficult. Great for a lively, adventurous date where you're bonding over shared plates of yakitori and drinks, but skip it if you're looking for candlelit ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, walk-ins are accepted and waits tend to be shorter than other Sawtelle spots. Reservations are only available for the 6:00–7:30pm dinner window and can be made by phone at (424) 208-3293. Outside that window, it's walk-in only. Expect a short wait on weekends and Friday nights. Note: there's a $15/person charge for no-shows if you do book.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — they offer a dedicated Mini Set kids meal ($15) with ramen, chicken rice, yakitori skewers, fruit, and a small toy. High chairs are available. The loud, bustling atmosphere means kids won't stand out or bother anyone. Best for families who don't mind a noisy, pub-style environment. Keep in mind it is an izakaya, so alcohol is a central part of the menu and vibe.
Is it good for groups? Yes — the restaurant is well-suited for group dining and the shared yakitori format works naturally for parties. They have a heated, semi-private patio area that can accommodate gatherings including birthdays and corporate events. No private dining rooms are available. Specific max party size is not confirmed online — call (424) 208-3293 for groups over 6 to confirm seating arrangements.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — the restaurant has a heated, semi-private patio area that doubles as an event-friendly space. Specific details on whether it is fully covered are not confirmed online — call ahead if weather protection matters for your visit.
Best For
Better for: Groups sharing dozens of small plates over beer, late-night runs (open until 11pm), and anyone who wants a loud, energetic izakaya atmosphere on Sawtelle.
Skip if: You want a quiet or romantic dinner—the constant shouting is intentional and nonstop. Also not ideal if you need substantial vegan options.
Hours
Monday11:30am - 2pm, 5pm - 11pm
Tuesday11:30am - 2pm, 5pm - 11pm
Wednesday11:30am - 2pm, 5pm - 11pm
Thursday11:30am - 2pm, 5pm - 11pm
Friday11:30am - 2pm, 5pm - 11pm
Saturday12pm - 11pm
Sunday12pm - 11pm