If you’re a rookie ramen eater, here are the things to look for: Deep, multi-dimensional and flavourful broth, fresh, chewy and bouncy noodles, and well-cooked and well-prepared fresh toppings. If you’re trying to decide which kind of ramen to order, opt for a classic Tonkotsu Ramen with Shio (salt) or Shoyu (soy sauce) broth before experimenting with the novelty flavours.
Tried and True:
- Sansotei:This restaurant has just the simplest, cleanest presentation and design. Every bowl I’ve had is consistently good. Thankfully they’ve opened up quite a few locations now and the lines are not as big of a problem, though most spaces are still quite small. Potential drawback: If it’s winter, sometimes the lines are just not worth it.
- Ramen Isshin: This place makes the list because of their special broth bases such as black garlic and black sesame. I also love that they have the decadent option of grinding your own sesame seeds table-side. Potential drawback: Some of the locations have hard to access washrooms.
- Ramen x Remix Ramen Bar
- Hokkaido Ramen Santouka: This is a Japanese chain that has managed to preserve a lot of consistency throughout its international locations. I love that they have combos featuring a bowl of ramen paired with a little side bowl of rice (with toppings) for those days you just want two kinds of carbs. Potential drawback: The locations are an interesting choice.
- Ramen Raijin: This is a solid ramen joint with a focus on student life and beer, and part of the Zakkushi Group of restaurants. Potential drawback: It has a focus on student life and beer.
Honourable Mentions:
- Kinton Ramen: The Kinka Restaurant Group has managed to grow significantly in Toronto and internationally in the last few years. My favourite thing to eat here is the location-specific ramen special that each restaurant has. Potential drawback: Each location has different management and it can be hard to know what you will find on any given day and place. The growing franchise has also impacted the quality of the individual bowls.
On My Radar:
- Konjiki Ramen: The first international branch of an eight-seat Tokyo ramen shop that’s managed to earn the title of Japan’s best ramen.
- Ramen Misoya: An international chain that has a lot of Michelin Guide status.
- Ryus Noodle Bar: A popular Toronto location with a mystery formula I can’t quite figure out yet from afar.
- Oji Sechi: Contemporary place in East Chinatown.
Last updated: November 2025