So, it’s no polar vortex here in SoCal, but it certainly has been getting a bit nippy come sundown.  Luckily, we have a plethora of ramen options here in the Valley to keep us warm.  Here are 4 of our favorite ramen spots—all offering meals under $11. 

RAMEN BY OMAE

The Sauce Scoop:  Hailing from Tokyo, Michelin starred chef, Takeshi Omae has opened a ramen joint featuring a “Tonkotsu” broth where pork bones are boiled for 40 hours. 

What to order: The Original Pork Broth Ramen.  Get it with soft boiled egg. 

Ramen by Omae, 14425 1/4 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks, (818) 784-8981.

JINYA RAMEN BAR

The Sauce Scoop: Jinya is known for their “Tonkotsu” broth which is rich in dashi and packs a strong umami punch. 

What to order: Tonkotsu Black ramen.  The pork broth is rich and murky, topped with slices of pork chashu, and laced with green onion, cabbage, garlic chips, and bejeweled with a soft boiled egg. 

Jinya Ramen Bar, 11239 Ventura Blvd. Studio City, (818) 980-3977.

TAMASHII RAMEN HOUSE

The Sauce Scoop: This Sherman Oaks native ramen restaurant offers a variety of Japanese food, but they’re known for their generous ramen bowls.   

What to order:  This is another case where you’ve got to order the Black Tonkotsu—garnished with a pool of garlic oil, braised pork, and yep, black fungus. 

Tamashii Ramen House, 14531 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks, (818) 990-1268.

RAMEN YAMADAYA

The Sauce Scoop:  Ramen Yamadaya is also on board with the “Tonkotsu” trend although they also offer dipped “tsukemen” ramen and other Japanese dishes. 

What to order: Some people live and die by Yamadaya’s unusual cheese ramen, which bears a mound of grated Parmesan, but we prefer the signature Tonkotsu bowl, topped with pork belly and highly pungent. 

Ramen Yamadaya, 15030 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, (818) 501-1115.