Santouka Ramen is the latest entry on Toronto’s ramen scene… and it’s been packed since opening mid-November. Located on an unassuming corner at Dundas and Church streets, the room is small and boasts a similar aesthetic to many of the city’s lastest crop of next-generation Japanese restaurants.
There are cropped openings so you can see the wonder of the kitchen and how they put together their already famous noodle soups. Black stained woods contrasting on natural blond ones, and pops of stainless steel create a wholly Toronto look. But this is a Japanese chain, and they’re serious about their ramen.
The broth is a tonkotsu style – derived from simmering pork bones – so it’s similar to that of Sansotei just down the street West of Yonge. Their flavours range from shio (salt) to shoyu (soy) to miso and spicy miso. But no matter which you pick, you’ll have a flavourful bowl of comforting ramen… which will be welcome after your 30-or-so minute wait in line in the cold…