By Denise Ortuno
As a longtime resident of the Coachella Valley, I relish in our chilly (for us locals), yet brief winter weather, where we can release our sweaters from their summer hibernation, indulge in hot cup of cocoa, and really get into other body warming wonders. One dish that I particularly enjoy when the temps dip, is a hot spicy bowl of ramen. Now, don’t get me wrong, ramen is deliciously delightful all year round no matter what the weather is like. But having it when the heat of the dish doesn’t match the heat of the air outside is something special.
I was happily surprised to come upon this ramen haven earlier this year, but appalled that I was late to the party, as the highly popular La Quinta restaurant opened back in 2020, with their second location opening a year later. But hey, I’m just glad I found it! The menu is straight forward, offering traditional ramen combinations, with fresh ingredients that will bring your taste buds to an upright position. If you’ve never tried ramen, first let me say I’m sorry, but it is something that Torakichi Ramen can quickly help you with.
Ramen at its core is based with a slow cooked broth traditionally made from pork bones, but also can be born from other protein bases, and even from vegetables for all of you vegans out there. The broth is the foundation which houses the other cast mates that make the ramen, well, fun! Supporting players such as ultra-tasty, marinated eggs, nori, mushrooms, pork, chicken or tofu round out the stage, and of course the glorious whimsical noodles wrap it all together.
The ramen creations at Torakichi include the Tonkostu Black Garlic Ramen, Tonkostu Miso Ramen, and even a Vegetarian Ramen. However, my favorite is the Spicy Tonkostu Ramen, because I love spicy, and this velvety rich ramen packs a memorable punch that lingers joyfully on my tongue. The restaurant features other dishes such as pork gyoza, chicken karaage (Japanese style fried chicken), and excellent springs rolls, among other dishes.
So if you find yourself wanting something to give you the warm and fuzzies with a noodle twist this winter, or any time of year, you just can’t go wrong with some wonderful ramen from Torakichi Ramen.
Two Locations: 79775 Hwy 111, La Quinta, CA 92253 760-775-3737 or 5001 Ramon Rd #2-A, Palm Springs CA,92264 760-699-8607 www.torakichiramen.com.
