ippudo V West Hollywood
Ramen restaurant · Crescent ·
Creative vegan sushi, plant-based ramen, cozy setting
Creative vegan sushi, plant-based ramen, cozy setting
"When you hear a ramen shop is vegan, the expectation is usually bland broth and a big pile of bean sprouts. But Ippudo V—the all-vegan version of the beloved Japanese ramen shop with a location in Culver City—pulls it off. This West Hollywood outpost looks like a resort lobby filled with succulents and, true to the chain's form, loads up its bowls with toppings. But here, the “tonkotsu” broth is made with Japanese soy milk, giving it a creamy, slightly sweet finish that’s not quite as decadent as the real thing, but still comforting. The noodles are springy, the fried enoki mushrooms add a nice crunch, and the tofu does its best impression of chashu (it’s clearly tofu, but there’s some char to sell the illusion). To round out the menu, there’s also sushi, mushroom tempura, and gyoza, all of which are solid enough so that no one will be saying they’re only good “for being vegan.” photo credit: Cathy Park" - Cathy Park
"The popular NYC ramen chain opened in the heart of Weho recently and immediately upgraded the neighborhood’s already good ramen options. While their tonkotsu is what brings the crowds, we love the small plates like the karaage and pork buns just as much. Available for takeout and delivery." - brant cox
"Chef John Fraser’s gorgeous West Hollywood restaurant will make you feel glamorous the second you walk in the door. We sat on the edge of the lush plant-filled patio that makes you feel like a voyeur overseeing the elegantly dressed crowd. While engaging in the immensely satisfying practice of people watching, immediately order the Manhattan and umami onion rings. When onion rings are made by fast-food restaurants, they’re delicious. But with Fraser’s skill, they are a must-eat. They check all the requirements for a perfect onion ring. Post-bite, the onion remains intact. The rings are not remotely oily. And as a bonus, the proprietary umami powder makes Ardor’s side dish into one I will return for, even if sitting at the bar for a drink along with the soft, comforting milk bread layered with beefsteak tomatoes. —Mona Holmes" - Eater Staff
"The popular NYC ramen chain landed in the heart of Weho recently and immediately upgraded the neighborhood’s already good ramen options. While their tonkotsu is what brings the crowds, we love the small plates like the kara-age and pork buns just as much. photo credit: Ippudo" - Brant Cox
"Nationally known noodle shop closed with Dan Modern Chinese taking over its space." - Matthew Kang