Life in LA: Santouka Ramen (Various Locations)

Today, I thought I'd expand a bit and talk about my life here in Los Angeles. I moved here from Washington, DC less than a year ago and the adjustment, to be frank, has not been easy.  Moving when you're older always is significantly difficult than when you are younger, and when you move without any social safety nets, the barriers can be daunting. That is not to say it has all been so tough. Los Angeles is a vibrant city and a city where, if your personality matches its vibes, is a great one.

I am of the belief what works for one in a city does not work for another, so please take my experiences with a grain of salt. Yes, the adjustment not been smooth for me, but that doesn't mean the same applies for you.

A highlight of Los Angeles is the wide array of food that you can explore and find throughout the city. It's absolutely lovely. One of my favourite places to go is Santouka Ramen.  Whilst it's so nice to go to restaurants, sometimes, especially when you are here alone, it's tough to find someone to go with, and, yes, I've gone to restaurants alone before, but it's not something I prefer to do each and every night. Santouka Ramen is nestled in the Mitsuwa Supermarket and in their food court. If you are looking for a quick bite to eat, this is the place for you.  I love how they are Hokkaido style ramen, with their thin and chewy noodles. There are a variety of soup bases you can choose from, from shio (salt) to shoyu (soy sauce) to spicy miso (which is the one I normally get.) You also can get a variety of sizes. I prefer the small and I also get a soy sauce infused egg on the side. It's not only absolutely delicious but just enough for me to finish without feeling stuffed. If you're extra hungry, do get the larger sizes; in fact, most people there do get the medium or the large.

Sadly, Santouka does not do take-away nor do they take credit card. It's cash only and no bills above USD $20. But if you're in the LA area and you don't want to sit alone in the ramen shop, give this a go. And after you are satiated with such a delectable meal, go to the supermarket section of Mitsuwa and load up on all the Japanese treats that you can. I generally get a nice chunk of maguro and red snapper as well as all the Japanese candies and potato chips my heart desires.

xo Jane