Nestled in the heart of Old Pasadena at 16 N Fair Oaks Ave, Ramen Tatsunoya is a must-visit spot for ramen enthusiasts and food lovers alike. Known for its authentic tonkotsu ramen, this casual eatery delights guests with a rich, flavorful broth and thick, tender chashu pork that melts in your mouth. The brick-walled interior creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere, perfect for a comforting meal after a day exploring the city.
Aside from the signature tonkotsu ramen, the menu features savory gyoza with a perfectly crispy exterior, special sushi rolls including a unique pink rice sushi, and a variety of sake to complement your meal. The noodles have a fantastic texture and come in thick or thin varieties, ensuring every bowl is just right. While the spicy miso ramen offers a mild kick, the overall flavors are robust and satisfying.
Friendly service and a welcoming vibe are hallmarks here, with staff known for their kindness and attentive care. Though the space is small, it’s brightly lit and immaculately clean, making it a pleasant spot for groups and families alike. Some visitors have noted a wait at peak times, a testament to its popularity, but the delicious bowls make the wait worthwhile.
- Parking options include nearby paid garages and street parking; a popular garage charges an $11 flat fee, but cheaper alternatives are just a block away.
- The restaurant accepts credit and debit cards as well as NFC payments, making transactions quick and convenient.
- Ramen Tatsunoya serves lunch, dinner, and dessert but does not offer breakfast or cocktails.
- Takeout and delivery services are available, perfect for enjoying their ramen at home or on the go.
- Although there is no outdoor seating, the interior is wheelchair accessible and family-friendly.
- Is there a vegan option? Not at this location.
- Do they accept reservations? Yes, reservations are accepted.
- Is there outdoor seating available? Yes, the restaurant offers outdoor seating.
- Is the restaurant wheelchair accessible? Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.
- Do they offer delivery? Yes, delivery is available.
The community buzz around Ramen Tatsunoya is overwhelmingly positive. Diners rave about the "best tonkotsu ramen" they've ever had, praising the deep, rich broth and the generous portions of chashu pork. The gyoza, with its unforgettable crispiness, often steals the spotlight as well. Guests appreciate the friendly staff and the spotless environment, creating a memorable dining ambiance. While it can get busy, the consensus is that the wait is well justified by the exceptional flavors and quality. This spot has become a treasured gem for locals and visitors seeking authentic ramen in Pasadena.
Whether you're a ramen connoisseur or a curious foodie, Ramen Tatsunoya promises a satisfying and comforting culinary journey in the vibrant Old Pasadena neighborhood.
Ramen Tatsunoya is a distinguished name in the world of Japanese cuisine, celebrated especially for its traditional tonkotsu ramen. This culinary gem originally opened its doors in 1999 in Kurume City, nestled in Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan—a region renowned for pioneering some of the best ramen styles in the country. Its foundation in Kurume set the stage for a rich heritage centered around crafting deeply flavorful, slow-cooked pork bone broth that ramen enthusiasts crave.
After firmly establishing a reputation for excellence in Japan, Ramen Tatsunoya embarked on an exciting journey overseas by opening its first United States location in December 2015. Choosing Pasadena, California, as its American home was no accident. This historic city, known for its vibrant food scene and cultural richness, provided the perfect backdrop to introduce authentic tonkotsu ramen to a broader audience. Today, Ramen Tatsunoya in Pasadena is lauded not only for its deeply savory broth and perfectly cooked noodles but also for its welcoming atmosphere and dedication to quality.
Visitors to this cozy eatery delight in a menu that highlights traditional dishes with an emphasis on rich flavors and authentic preparation techniques. The signature tonkotsu ramen boasts a creamy, pork-bone broth that is simmered for hours to extract an intense umami taste, paired with thick, tender slices of chashu pork that melt in your mouth. Besides ramen, patrons enjoy gyoza and exclusive sushi rolls, complementing their meal with sake in a relaxed, brick-walled setting that balances simplicity with comfort.
- Authentic Tonkotsu Ramen known for its rich and creamy pork bone broth.
- Established Legacy tracing back to its founding in Kurume City, Japan, 1999.
- Pasadena Location opened in 2015, becoming a local favorite in Southern California.
- Menu Highlights including gyoza, special sushi rolls, and sake to complement the ramen experience.
Ramen Tatsunoya continues to thrive by honoring its roots while adapting to the tastes and preferences of its diverse clientele. Whether you're a devoted ramen lover or a first-time visitor seeking an authentic taste of Japan, this Pasadena spot delivers an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates tradition, flavor, and community.
Nestled in the heart of Old Pasadena, Ramen Tatsunoya stands out as an authentic Japanese eatery specializing in traditional tonkotsu ramen. This cozy spot boasts a rich and flavorful broth, complemented by tender chashu pork that melts in your mouth. Food enthusiasts and ramen lovers alike appreciate its casual ambiance, making it a welcoming destination for both families and groups.
Ramen Tatsunoya offers more than just ramen; its menu includes popular gyoza and special sushi rolls, paired with sake for a complete dining experience. The atmosphere is casual and brick-walled, creating a cozy feel that encourages lingering. Customers rave about the friendly and efficient service, which enhances the overall enjoyment.
Convenience is key here, with delivery and takeout options available, alongside wheelchair accessibility and outdoor seating to accommodate diverse needs and preferences.
Despite its many strengths, visitors should be aware that the restaurant can have occasional wait times due to its popularity. Additionally, those seeking vegan options may find the choices limited, as the menu primarily focuses on meat-based dishes. Parking in the area is available but often requires payment, which is common in downtown Pasadena.
- Pros Authentic tonkotsu ramen with rich broth and tender chashu pork, cozy ambiance, friendly service, delivery and takeout available, wheelchair accessible, outdoor seating, good for groups and families.
- Cons Occasional wait times, limited vegan options, paid parking in nearby lots.
