Ramen Tatsunoya Menu Overview in Old Pasadena California USA 91103 16 N Fair Oaks Ave Authentic Tonkotsu Ramen and Japanese Dishes in a Cozy Setting Pasadenans Foodies and Travelers Recommend Gyoza and Tonkotsu Broth
Ramen Tatsunoya in the heart of Old Pasadena offers a delightful menu focused on authentic tonkotsu ramen and traditional Japanese flavors. Known for its rich, garlicky broths and thick, flavorful noodles, this cozy eatery is a must-visit for both locals and travelers seeking hearty and satisfying Japanese cuisine.
Starters to Stimulate Your Palate
Kick off your meal with an array of delicious starters crafted from fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. The Gyoza boasts a crispy exterior wrapped around a juicy filling of ground pork, shiitake mushrooms, green onions, cabbage, garlic, and sesame oil—the perfect light yet flavorful bite. Other tempting starters include edamame delicately tossed with salt and sesame oil, garlic shrimp seasoned with pepper and salt, and the uniquely satisfying flavored egg infused with soy sauce, mirin, and sake.
- Crispy gyoza with pork and shiitake mushroom filling
- Edamame lightly salted with sesame oil
- Garlic shrimp seasoned with garlic, salt, and pepper
- Flavored egg marinated in soy sauce, mirin, and sake
- California roll with creamy avocado and fresh crab
- Takoyaki savory octopus balls topped with bonito flakes
- Tatsunoya roll featuring mentaiko and chopped chashu with avocado
Hearty Mains Centered on Tonkotsu Ramen
The mains at Ramen Tatsunoya are devoted to the soul-warming tonkotsu ramen, steeped in a rich pork bone broth bursting with umami and depth. The Koku Tonkotsu is a classic choice, combining pork back fat, umami paste, onion, and garlic-infused oil to create a linger-worthy broth that perfectly complements thick noodles. For those craving a bit of heat, the Spicy Miso Tonkotsu blends red, white, and barley miso with the tonkotsu broth, offering a comforting yet mildly spicy noodle experience that balances flavor and texture beautifully.
Other ramen options include the more subtle Jun Tonkotsu which features a mild tonkotsu broth, and the Koku Extra Chashu and Spicy Miso Tonkotsu Extra Chashu which amp up the indulgence with additional tender chashu pork.
- Koku Tonkotsu with pork back fat, umami paste, and garlic oil
- Spicy Miso Tonkotsu with red, white, and barley miso
- Jun Tonkotsu featuring mild tonkotsu broth
- Koku Extra Chashu with extra tender chashu pork
- Spicy Miso Tonkotsu Extra Chashu combining miso-spiced broth with extra chashu
Unique Rice Bowls and Wraps
For a satisfying alternative to ramen, try the signature chashu rice bowls, each topped with succulent pork and your choice of yuzu or spicy mayonnaise. The Chashu Bowl with Yuzu Mayo offers a citrusy zest, while the spicy mayo version delivers a creamy kick. For a lighter bite, the crispy spicy chashu wraps combine spicy chopped chashu, lettuce, cheese, tempura crunch, and seaweed for a fusion of textures and flavors.
Decadent Desserts and Refreshing Drinks
Complement your meal with the restaurant’s selection of desserts and drinks. While the menu highlights traditional dishes, patrons often enjoy the sake offerings that pair beautifully with ramen or sushi rolls, enhancing the authentic Japanese dining experience.
Experience the true flavor of Old Pasadena at Ramen Tatsunoya
Whether you're craving the deep, savory tonkotsu ramen, the crispy and juicy gyoza, or a uniquely crafted chashu rice bowl, Ramen Tatsunoya delivers a memorable meal in a welcoming atmosphere. This spot is perfect for groups and families looking for authentic Japanese taste with a local Pasadena twist.
