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| - +.5 for service
I had an acceptable experience in the Toukenboku branch on Yonge Street, so I decided to try this branch on Queen since my current office is nearby. Admittedly, I didn't look at Yelp beforehand when selecting this place, as I solely relied on many of my friends who have been here and had positive reviews.
It was quite busy when I arrived at around noon on a Thursday, but I was seated promptly and taken care of. The menu is a little different from the Yonge branch, as this place is more of a "DIY" style of ordering ramen...unless they recently changed it to that kind of ordering format.
I ordered a black garlicky ramen with thick noodles, which costed $10.50; slightly more than average, but $10 is about the benchmark now for non-Chinese style ramen. The food took a while to come, but I was able to see the chefs make the noodles as I was sitting by the kitchen area.
I was honestly not too impressed with the ramen, as it looked too bland for my liking. Thankfully the ramen was chewy; just the way I like it. The chashu was also quite good, and honestly it was the chashu that saved this meal. The broth had the black garlicky feel, but it wasn't as rich as the other ramen places. I do understand that they use chicken broth, which may have played into the richness factor. It does feel healthier though, so if you're health conscious then this place is good for you.
Service was excellent the entire way, and it was easy to wave someone to take an order or to ask for the bill. If you're someone who prefers a healthier stock broth, then do try this place. However, if you're someone who cares more about taste and richness, you may find this place falling short of your expectations.
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