Discover the authentic udon experience at Marugame Monzo in downtown Los Angeles.
Nestled in the heart of Little Tokyo, Marugame Monzo is a hip destination famed for its expertly hand-pulled udon noodles crafted in an open kitchen. Each dish bursts with distinctive flavors, combining traditional Japanese techniques with creative twists. The menu caters to a variety of tastes, offering both light and hearty options that highlight the chewy, fresh noodles and rich broths or sauces.
Starters to whet your appetite
Begin your meal with crunchy and flavorful appetizers. The Fried Chicken Skin offers a delightfully crispy texture that pairs perfectly with udon dishes. For those craving variety, the Assorted Tempura features an array of expertly battered and fried items, delivering a satisfying mix of flavors and crispiness that set the tone for an unforgettable dining experience.
Main dishes showcasing udon mastery
The heart of Marugame Monzo’s menu lies in its diverse udon creations, each made with fresh, hand-pulled noodles renowned for their satisfying texture and chew. Whether you prefer hot broths, creamy sauces, or refreshing cold preparations, there’s a dish to delight every palate:
- Sea Urchin Cream Udon: A luxurious blend of sea urchin and cream enveloping the noodles for an indulgent taste.
- Miso Carbonara Udon: A unique fusion marrying savory miso with creamy carbonara sauce for a rich, comforting bowl.
- Mentai Squid Butter Udon: Featuring mentaiko cod roe and tender squid, enhanced by creamy butter for a decadent flavor.
- Duck Nanban Udon: Succulent duck paired with freshly made udon noodles for a flavorful and hearty dish.
- Cold Dashi Udon: A refreshing chilled udon noodle dish served with delicate cold dashi broth — perfect for warmer days.
- Zaru Udon: Chilled noodles served with a savory dipping sauce for a classic and clean taste.
- Plum Shiso Bukkake Udon: A tangy and herbaceous delight with plum and fragrant shiso leaf topping fresh udon.
- Curry Udon: Udon noodles bathed in rich, aromatic curry sauce for a warm and satisfying meal.
Decadent desserts and refreshing drinks
While the menu is centered on udon, Marugame Monzo delights guests with authentic Japanese desserts that offer a sweet finish to your meal. Complement your dining experience with beer or wine, as the establishment proudly serves these beverages to pair beautifully with their rich flavors.
Specialties you won't want to miss
For first-timers and seasoned visitors alike, the Uni Udon and Beef Udon receive high praise for their rich and satisfying profiles. The Hot Dragon and Garlic Clam Sauce dishes have also been highlighted by patrons as unforgettable flavor experiences, showcasing Marugame Monzo's careful balance of tradition and innovation.
Marugame Monzo stands as a must-visit spot in Los Angeles for anyone seeking the pinnacle of udon craftsmanship in a welcoming and vibrant downtown setting.