
SELECTED RESTAURANT
Los Angeles, United States
Discover Marugame Monzo in Downtown Los Angeles, CA USA - Home of Handmade Udon Noodles and Authentic Flavors!
Tucked in the vibrant heart of Downtown Los Angeles, Marugame Monzo stands as a tantalizing temple of authentic Japanese udon cuisine. Revered by locals and visitors, this hip dining spot crafts its signature noodles by hand right in an open kitchen, turning every dish into a fresh, flavorful masterpiece. Whether you're craving a light yet satisfying meal or a rich, savory broth, Marugame Monzo delivers an unforgettable experience with its carefully curated menu and welcoming ambiance.
What makes Marugame Monzo a must-visit in Los Angeles?
At Marugame Monzo, guests enjoy an inviting atmosphere paired with a diverse selection of udon dishes made from fresh, hand-pulled noodles. Notable for its umami-rich sauces and generous portions, the restaurant offers both refreshing cold udon and hearty warm broths. Highlights include the distinct textures and deeply flavorful sauces that have made this spot a staple in Little Tokyo’s culinary scene.
Friendly staff ensure quick service and a comfortable dining experience, making this an ideal spot to enjoy lunch or dinner in a relaxed setting. Whether you choose to dine in or take out, Marugame Monzo caters to your preferences while serving up some of the best udon noodles in Los Angeles.
Popular dishes to try
- Uni Cream Udon: A luscious, creamy udon dish featuring rich sea urchin flavors.
- Miso Carbonara Udon: A creative fusion of Japanese miso with creamy Italian carbonara flavors wrapped in chewy udon noodles.
- Mentai Squid Butter Udon: Rich and savory with a hint of oceanic sweetness, this dish features spicy cod roe and butter.
Planning your visit to Marugame Monzo
Located at 329 1st Street in Los Angeles’s bustling Little Tokyo district, Marugame Monzo provides a charming spot to indulge in authentic Japanese cuisine. The restaurant offers dine-in, takeout, and delivery options to suit your lifestyle. While the space is cozy and seating is limited, outdoor seating is available for those who prefer open-air dining.
Parking can be limited. Guests can find paid parking lots, garages, or street parking nearby in Japan Town, just across the street from the restaurant.
Marugame Monzo does not accept reservations, so arriving early or during off-peak hours can help you avoid long waits. The restaurant is open Monday through Thursday from 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM, Friday and Saturday until 10:00 PM, and Sunday until 9:00 PM.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the most popular dishes at Marugame Monzo? The most popular dishes include Uni Cream Udon, Miso Carbonara Udon, and Mentai Squid Butter Udon.
- Is there parking available at Marugame Monzo? Parking is limited; street parking is available, and there is a parking structure across the street in Japan Town.
- Does Marugame Monzo accept reservations? No, the restaurant operates on a first-come, first-served basis and does not accept reservations.
- What are the operating hours of Marugame Monzo? The restaurant is open Monday to Thursday from 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM, Friday and Saturday from 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM, and Sunday from 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM.
- Is Marugame Monzo suitable for large groups? The restaurant has limited seating and can get busy, so it may not be ideal for large groups without prior planning.
Community sentiment and final thoughts
Marugame Monzo consistently receives positive feedback for its authentic flavors, fresh hand-pulled noodles, and attentive service. Its cozy setting in Little Tokyo and dedication to quality have made it a beloved destination for udon enthusiasts. Whether you are a foodie eager to explore Japanese cuisine or a traveler seeking a genuine taste of LA's diverse culinary landscape, Marugame Monzo promises a satisfying and memorable experience.
Marugame Monzo: A Los Angeles Udon Legacy
Nestled in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles's vibrant Little Tokyo district, Marugame Monzo has built a reputation as the go-to spot for authentic Japanese udon in Los Angeles. This restaurant is famed for its commitment to traditional udon preparation, with noodles hand-pulled fresh in an open kitchen, offering diners a unique culinary experience that is both interactive and delicious.
A Flavorful Journey Through Time
Since its emergence as a culinary landmark, Marugame Monzo has consistently attracted food lovers looking for a genuine taste of Japan. The restaurant's timeline is a testament to its growing acclaim and popularity:
- 2013: Marugame Monzo was featured in the Los Angeles Times for its innovative udon dishes.
- 2014: The restaurant received a stamp of approval from LA Weekly and Los Angeles Times, solidifying its status in the competitive LA dining scene.
- 2015: Marugame Monzo was ranked #1 for udon in Los Angeles on Foursquare, a crowning achievement celebrating its dedication to quality and flavor.
What Makes Marugame Monzo Stand Out
Marugame Monzo’s charm lies not just in its accolades but in the authentic and fresh flavors it offers. Customers rave about the fresh, chewy texture of the udon noodles and the rich, savory broths that accompany them. The menu features a wide array of udon varieties, from cold refreshing egg udon to the hearty beef udon with warm broth, each crafted to delight the palate.
- Hand-pulled noodles: Prepared fresh in an open kitchen for a visually engaging culinary experience.
- Variety of dishes: From cold egg udon to savory beef udon, plus popular sides like crispy chicken skin and shrimp tempura.
- Welcoming atmosphere: Friendly staff ensure prompt service, making every visit enjoyable whether it’s a quiet weekday or busy weekend.
Experience Marugame Monzo Today
Whether you’re a local Angeleno or a traveler exploring cultural gems in Los Angeles, Marugame Monzo provides an exceptional dining experience centered around the artistry of udon noodles. With options for dine-in, takeout, and delivery, this beloved eatery invites you to savor freshly made, authentic Japanese flavors right in the heart of Little Tokyo.
Marugame Monzo: Authentic Udon Experience in Downtown Los Angeles
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown Los Angeles, Marugame Monzo offers an exceptional taste of Japan's beloved udon noodles. This hip and cozy spot is celebrated for its hand-pulled udon noodles crafted right in the open kitchen, ensuring each dish bursts with freshness and authentic flavor. The inviting atmosphere coupled with friendly and attentive service creates a welcoming environment for foodies and travelers alike seeking a genuine Japanese dining experience.
Standout features and menu highlights
Marugame Monzo is famed for its wide variety of unique and flavorful udon dishes, including savory beef udon, refreshing cold egg udon, and rich seafood options like the popular garlic clam sauce udon. The noodles are praised for their perfect chewiness and freshness, while appetizers such as crispy chicken skin and shrimp tempura add delightful textures to the meal. Whether you prefer warm broths or light, chilled preparations, this menu caters to diverse palates with generous portion sizes.
Pros that make Marugame Monzo a must-visit
- Authentic Japanese udon dishes crafted with traditional techniques for genuine flavor.
- Freshly made udon noodles hand-pulled in an open kitchen ensuring quality and texture.
- Friendly and attentive service that makes every visit comfortable and welcoming.
- Cozy and inviting atmosphere perfect for casual dining or a quick comforting meal in Little Tokyo.
- Unique and flavorful menu options that satisfy both traditionalists and adventurous eaters.
Considerations before visiting
While Marugame Monzo shines in delivering quality udon and service, there are a few factors to keep in mind. Seating is limited, which can lead to wait times especially during peak dining hours, so visitors should plan accordingly. The restaurant does not accept reservations, and parking options are somewhat scarce with only paid parking lots, garages, and street parking available nearby. These logistical challenges may affect the convenience of your visit but do not overshadow the overall exceptional dining experience.
Open Now - Closing 9:00 PM
Monday
11:30–21:00
Tuesday
11:30–21:00
Wednesday
11:30–21:00
Thursday
11:30–21:00
Friday
11:30–22:00
Saturday
11:30–22:00
Sunday
11:30–21:00
Aggregated Ratings 4.5
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