Umemura - Gardena, CA

1724 W. Redondo Beach Blvd.
Gardena, CA 90274
(310) 217-0970

Umemura has been around for as long as I can remember. My parents first took me here when I was too young to even hold chopsticks. I still remember how my mom would roll up the chopstick wrapper, place it between the chopsticks, and use a rubber band on one end to create elasticity. Those were the days. Umemura is located in an old taco bell building and as you can see from the pic above, they haven't bothered to change the sign since its opening. I even joke with friends that the bowls we eat out of now are the same bowls I ate out of when I was 6 years old. BTW does anyone remember Kotan?

Wonton-men (shoyu based): It's been years since I've been back here and with one sip of the soup, all the memories came rushing back. Natsukashii!! This ramen is exactly how I remember it. The shoyu based soup is probably one of the best I've ever had. The noodles have a perfect, crimped texture and each slurp was like traveling back into time. The toppings (wontons, spinach, and negi) complemented well. Perhaps I'm biased since I have a long history with Umemura, but this is a great ramen-ya with an extraordinary ramen!


Tan Tan-men (miso based): Full of flavor with a hint of spice that gives you a little kick. A great way to revive your senses. It's available in both shoyu and miso.


Gyoza: It's not the best I've ever had but it still pleased the taste buds. The garlic taste is not overwhelming which allows the other flavors to emerge with clarity. A must order with any ramen!


Chahan: You may want to starve yourself before you go because the chahan is also a "must order." Do not pass on this one or you will definitely regret it!