Mamoru Tokuda, owner of the Koraku Restaurant, shows off a replica of the sign certified by the City of Los Angeles as the oldest ramen restaurant operating in the United States. Photographed on Jan. 30, 2025
Kouraku (314 E. Second St.), a Japanese-style Chinese restaurant in Little Tokyo, is celebrating its 50th anniversary by hosting a commemorative event, the Kouraku Festival, on Sunday, Nov. 8, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For the occasion, Second Street — where the restaurant is located — will be closed to traffic. The event will feature food tastings, festival-style games, and a variety of performances. Admission is free.
While food tastings are complimentary, drinks and alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase. Tickets will be required to play the games. There will also be a raffle with the chance to win exciting prizes.
Kouraku was founded in 1976 in Little Tokyo. The restaurant is popular for its menu, which includes Japanese-style Chinese food like ramen, gyoza, and fried rice, alongside Japanese favorites such as curry rice, tempura, and katsudon. It is loved by the locals as a restaurant where you can enjoy delicious food at a reasonable price.
Last year, the City of Los Angeles recognized Kouraku as the oldest ramen restaurant operating in the U.S., and a commemorative plaque was installed on a lamppost in front of the establishment.
Owner Mamoru Tokuda invites everyone to attend, saying, “We are holding the Kouraku Festival to express our gratitude — a big ‘thank you’ — to the customers and the local community who have supported Kouraku for the past 50 years. Please bring your family and friends and come join us!”
For more information about the event, call (213) 687-4972.