Trendy Ramen Newcomer Takes Over Pingtung on Melrose Avenue

Hold on to your noodles, because there’s even more ramen coming to Los Angeles. This time it’s EAK Ramen, a hybrid shop doing a cross-pollinated iekei-style ramen that in this case marries tonkotsu and shoyu broths.

EAK Ramen has been quietly prepping to serve the trendier stretch of Melrose, taking over the former Pingtung Eat-In Market that shuttered back in August. That restaurant was long known as a great place for Chinese food west of the SGV, but now comes the opportunity for Japanese eats to thrive at the same address.

They’ll certainly have competition though, as ramen remains quite trendy across Los Angeles. Not only are there longstanding options nearby like the highly automated Tatsu down the street, but the Valley just got two different ramen choices — Ramen Room by chef Andre Guerrerro, and Luke Reyes’ Oh Man! Ramen in Encino — basically on the same day.

EAK Ramen should be ready to serve come Tuesday of next week, which is a rather speedy turnaround for the space. What’s more, they’ve also got plans to expand into New York City basically immediately, as their website shows a second location out East to arrive soon as well. Once the place goes live, look for hours from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. or later.

EAK Ramen
7455 Melrose Ave.
Los Angeles, CA