Chief executive chef Natsuki Ishijima prepares a bowl of ramen at Mottainai Ramen restaurant in Gardena. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)
A hot bowl of Sapporo-style ramen at Mottainai Ramen restaurant. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)
Chief executive chef Natsuki Ishijima cooks behind a wall of glass that features menu items and specialties. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)
Chief executive chef Natsuki Ishijima, left, and manager Nobuaki Ishiai of Mottainai Ramen reataurant. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)
The dining area of Mottainai Ramen restaurant in Gardena. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)
