Jinya Ramen Bar

Even in L.A.’s ever-expanding ramen scene, one of the earliest, chain-based tonkotsu specialists is still one of the best: Jinya offers a full slate of pork-based ramen, all of which smack strong with not only pork, but also what someone might tell you is an “industrial” amount of dashi and dried fish; purists can order the Tonkotsu Black for a garlicky and straightforward approach to this soup; for the adventurous, there’s the Tonkotsu Spicy, which stays true to its name. Of course, if you’re not into tonkotsu at all, Jinya also offers one of our favorite meatless bowls in the city: the spicy creamy vegan, made garlicky and studded with tofu, greens and sesame. Locations include Downtown, Studio City, Burbank, Santa Monica and an express location at Hollywood and Highland.