Rakkan Ramen

Before “plant-based” became a buzzword, Rakkan Ramen was already selling its line of kombu-based vegetarian broth in 2011 in Tokyo. Having expanded to LA, the Japanese mini-chain now offers an array of light, flavorful ramen bowls with fanciful names like Garnet (miso-flavored), Pearl (shio-based), and Amber (soy-based). Yes, there are vegan options, but even if you’re primarily a meat-eater, you can come away from Rakken feeling satisfied. Our favorite, the Amber, lets the umami flavors shine against the thin noodles and a few slices of chashu.