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| - Ok - I have 1 negative thing to say about Ajisen, and lots of positive things, so bear with me!
The one negative thing: THIS IS NOT RAMEN! The noodles actually resemble more of a thin spaghetti - and were perfectly cooked, frankly. Nice and tender - but this isn't authentic ramen, so beware! (By the by, the proprietors aren't Japanese, so you can't be too too surprised?) If you can get past this one, significant fact - read on!
It was a chilly, Feb evening. My folks had just flown in from Vancouver (!) and were hungry. We walked a couple blocks from their hotel in anticipation of some hot tasty soup, and this place didn't disappoint! We were welcomed with enthusiasm, and got a nice toasty seat away from the doors. My dad ordered the Shoyu, my mom the Assorted Vegetable, and me, the Miso with BBQ pork, and a "Japanese Fried Tofu" to share.
Everything came hot and quick. Dad's Shoyu had a nice light flavour and wasn't too oily. My Miso broth was rich and tasty, but not overly salty. Mom's Assorted Vegetable was the third place finisher in the group - this is the "white broth" described in other reviews - and I think Mom would agree - it's a bit like under-flavoured salty water. (She coveted Dad's Shoyu.) In fact, Mom, who is notorious for poking her head into Chinese restaurant kitchens and asking them for "Less Salt!", asked for some soy sauce to kick up the flavour (Note: the bottle on the table is actually vinegar!)
Appetizer was great! Expertly fried, and in a great sauce. Will order again! In fact, will be back in the future, any time I want non-pho soup noodles and I can't make the trek all the way to Kenzo. I would stay away from any of the "white broths" options though; don't worry - the menu is multi-paged, and I'm confident that there is plenty of variety and flavour in the other broth offerings.
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