Killer Noodle

Tucked into the bustling Sawtelle corridor, Killer Noodle represents yet another outpost from the beloved Tsujita empire. This spot is dedicated entirely to tantanmen—the fiery Japanese cousin of Sichuan dan dan noodles—so leave your spice-averse friends at home for this one. The space hums with the energy of noodle enthusiasts willing to brave the inevitable wait times that can stretch past thirty minutes during peak hours.

The menu offers three varieties of tantanmen across six escalating heat levels, and the kitchen takes their spice seriously. A cheeky list of “7 Fundamentals” posted on the wall advises newcomers against attempting level five or six on their first visit, along with a rather memorable warning about post-meal consequences. It’s all part of the experience at a place that knows exactly what it’s about.

The star of the show is the Tokyo-style tantanmen with its rich sesame broth that manages to deliver substantial flavor without letting the spice completely overwhelm your palate—at least at the recommended level three for first-timers. The noodles themselves have that satisfying chew that ramen devotees crave, swimming in a broth that’s been carefully calibrated to deliver heat alongside depth.

This is prime territory for solo diners looking for a quick but satisfying lunch. Grab a seat at the counter, slurp your noodles with gusto, and head back out into the Sawtelle sunshine. Just maybe keep some antacids handy for later.