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| - Compared to my experiences at Ajisen, Niwatei and Kenzo, I would say that this is my favourite ramen place so far. I went on a Saturday around lunch time, and there was a line, where I waited about 20 minutes. I ordered the basic tonkotsu ramen along with a side of gyoza. I think that despite being slightly pricier, you do pay for the quality of the food you're getting. For example, the ramen comes with a generous serving of unchopped good quality black fungi, which is slightly pricy, so most ramen places actually either slice the black fungi into thin slivers, or don't serve it at all. In addition, most ramen places only offer half a egg, while Sansotei offers a full egg. In addition, the egg is also well marinated AND softboiled, whereas the other ramen places either offer marinated hardboiled eggs, or under flavoured softboiled ones. In terms of the soup base, it was deliciously rich, and as I drank it I didn't feel like I was drinking MSG like at Ajisen. Also, unlike other yelpers I didn't find that the richness made the soup hard to finish towards the end, but maybe my body just processes grease well :) . For the tonkotsu or pork belly, it was a generous portion, and had a nice smokey flavour to it which I haven't been able to find at the other ramen places I've tried.
In terms of the gyoza, I was happy to see that it wasn't the deep fried kind which you find at most Japanese restaurants, but rather the nice homey, pan fried types. (Though admittedly a bit pricey for 4 pieces). They were yummy, but quickly gone. (Side dishes are pricey in general and come in pretty small portions)
Overall, I think Sansotei was a good ramen experience, and I would definitely return. However, as my boyfriend wisely puts it, this restaurant is either worth the wait or the price, not both. I am willing to pay the price for quality food, but the place hasn't quite blown my mind yet for me to wait in line during cold weather. I recommend coming during the weekdays where they would presumably be less busy.
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