Prepare to be swept up in clouds of pork-tonkotsu ecstasy, engage in fierce battles against vintage video game bosses, and surrender to the siren call of rum-soaked tiki whimsy. This one is a choose-your-own-adventure of eclectic vibes.
JINYA Ramen
📍 11239 Ventura Blvd, Studio City, CA 91604
You know that hole-in-the-wall ramen spot that all the cool kids rave about? That’s JINYA. From the moment you walk in, the rich aroma of simmering broths smacks you right in the face. The menu’s full of these beautiful, steaming bowls that look way too fancy for their humble noodle beginnings. Go for the Tonkotsu Black if you want to see what all the fuss is about – it’s a crazy rich, porky broth loaded with thick noodles and all the fixins. Just be warned, they aren’t messing around with their spice levels. My friend cried actual tears into his bowl the first time. But that’s part of the fun, right? Sweating and slurping your way through some seriously legit ramen.
Know Before You Go
✔ The Tonkotsu Black is a religious experience
✔ Don’t be a hero with the spice unless you want to be That Person.
✔ It gets packed, so be prepared to wait.
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Player One Arcade Bar
📍 5126 Lankershim Blvd, North Hollywood, CA 91601
Imagine being a kid again, whiling away the hours mashing buttons and trying to beat the unbeatable. Now add a beer in your hand and crowd of like-minded adults around you. That’s Player One. Classic cabinets, vintage video games, and all the greatest hits from your misspent youth. Play all the games you want with no nagging parents to cut you off after an hour. It’s loud, it’s bright, it’s sensory overload in the best way possible. Grab a cocktail and relive your glory days.
Know Before You Go
✔ BYOQ (bring your own quarters)… or at least cash to exchange for them.
✔ They have surprisingly good cocktails here.
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Tonga Hut
📍 12808 Victory Blvd, Valley Glen, CA 91606
One second you’re in the middle of NoHo, the next you’re surrounded by carved tiki idols, bamboo walls, and a thatched roof overhead. The vibe is pure island cheesiness, but they lean into it so hard you can’t help but get swept up. The drinks don’t mess around either. You’ll feel that tropical buzz coming on strong after just one of their Mai Tais.
Know Before You Go
✔ Get. The. Mai. Tai.
✔ It’s small and ultra-tropical, so probably skip this one if big spaces are your thing
✔ Leave your button-down at home and go full-blown gaudy Hawaiian shirt
Noise Level
Reservation Difficulty
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