We can't deny it's cold outside and well… let’s face it, winter’s here to stay for quite some time. Residents of Toronto: turn that frown upside down! Today, we’re highlighting some of the city’s best ramen. Just like Virginia Woolf stated, “Soup is cuisine’s kindest course.” Sure, it may be cold out there, but at least it gives us a constant excuse to chow down on some delicious ramen. Here are some of Toronto’s best ramen spots:
1. Ramen Isshin - 421 College St
This joint comes in highly recommended - and for good reason! Ramen Isshin means “one heart, one ramen” and their mission is to bring authentic ramen to the city of Toronto. Isshin is best known for its use of quality ingredients. There is such an authentic dedication behind every bowl they serve. You can find Ramen Isshin in three different locations across the city: one in Assembly Chef’s Hall on Richmond Street West, one on College and lastly, one on Queen Street West.
2. Konjiki Ramen - 5051 Yonge St
If you’re looking for quality ramen, then Konjiki should be your next stop. Their noodles are made in-house, and they take pride in using carefully-chosen flour and specific machinery from Japan. What we love most about their concept is that they’re not afraid to break the barriers in using new and innovative ingredients in their ramen recipes. That gets an A+ in our books!
3. Hokkaido Ramen Santouka - 91 Dundas St E
Santouka’s ramen is made by hand and from scratch. Their mission: to serve quality, healthy, flavorful ramen that the entire family will enjoy. As they state: “Like food parents give their children, we strive and pour love into our ramen.” Hokkaido Ramen Santouka is a must-try (they’ve got 3 locations in Toronto!).
4. Momofuku Noodle Bar - 190 University Ave
Momofuku Noodle Bar has a diverse menu ranging from large-format fried chicken meals to their highly-acclaimed ramen bowls. Their pumpkin ramen is unique and full of amazing flavor, topped with kanpyo, cheese and scallion pesto.
5. Ramen Raijin - 2-10 Philipps St
Step into Raijin for a welcoming and calming atmosphere. Their signature stock is pork-based, offering a mild flavor that’s cooked in a pressure stockpot. Raijin is located right on Wellesley St. West. What’s great about this spot is that they close rather late (11pm from Sundays to Thursdays, and midnight from Fridays to Saturdays), giving you a chance to enjoy a fresh ramen bowl and satisfy those late-night cravings.
6. JINYA Ramen Bar - 399 Church St
At JINYA, they fully recognize that a good bowl of ramen isn’t about the noodles - it’s all in the stock! JINYA places its signature stock at center-stage and we must say, every bowl is sheer perfection. Luckily, we have one in Toronto (they opened their first shop in California), right on Church street - a MUST for everyone!
7. Tokyo Ramen - 568 Parliament Street
Tokyo Ramen ensures that they constantly use the freshest ingredients. Every bite is a unique experience. Their Tonkotsu Shoyu Ramen is absolutely delicious, filled with yummy ingredients like braised pork, egg, fish cake, black mushrooms and bamboo shoots. Check out the entire menu for yourself!
8. Sansotei Ramen - 650 Yonge St
If you want genuine, Japanese flavour, then Sansotei’s ramen bowls are a must-have. They source the highest quality ingredients from both local and Japanese suppliers. Their Miso Black is a customer favourite, filled with chashu, spicy kakuni, egg, shiitake and garlic.
Have you ever visited any of these ramen spots? Which one is your favourite?
