Finally had the chance to visit this restaurant despite all the hype surrounding it. So what's all the fuss about? I have been to enough ramen shops in Japan to know that this place is consistent with any ramen great ramen shops in Tokyo or any Japanese city.
Let's start with the broth (tip: always sip the broth before eating. It introduces the palette the symphony of tastes). Simple shoyu broth that isn't greasy. A subtle clam aroma underneath it the broth gives it a complex set of flavours unlike anything I tried elsewhere. The only other ramen shop in Japan that I tried that does this is Afuri. The noodles were perfectly cooked and slightly crinkly to absorb the broth. I ordered a soft boiled egg which was fantastically soft and silky. The chashu was tender and melt in your mouth. I ordered the braised pork belly and same thing, soft and melt in your mouth.
Overall an absolute clear winner here. Toronto is extremely lucky to land this first franchise. My recommendation is to arrive 20-30 mins before it opens to ensure seating. By the way don't diss people waiting in lineups. This is very typical in Japan often waiting for hours for a 30 minute meal. ??????!