I went to Santosei way back during its soft opening. At the time, I didn't think it was anything special. I love Kinton and thought this place wouldn't do anything to change that. However, after the grand opening I've heard nothing but good stuff on Yelp and other Ramen lovers I know. I decided to go back and see for myself. What a wonderful visit it was!!
Pros:
Great broth, best I've had in TO
Great service
Price is cheaper than the other ramen places
Cons:
So good it makes me want more??
This is now my new favourite place. I love my Kinton as well, but Santosei has lured me away. I had the tonkotsu black ramen. I am a sucker for tonkotsu so if you make a good one you have me as a customer for life. The broth was some of the best I've had in recent memory. You have a choice of thick of thin noodle when you order. I got the thick noodle and loved the consistency. After broth, I believe noodles are the second most important item to a good ramen. Santosei scores excellent points from me for that as well. Overall, a very enjoyable bowl of Ramen.
Service at these ramen places are always good and Santosei is no exception. I've never had a bad service experience at any of the Japanese ramen shops. They sure know how to put on great service. The waitresses were all very polite and helpful.
I found the price overall to be cheaper than the other places. I always add an egg, extra chashu and noodles to my ramen. Most of the time my bill runs close to $15-17 for a bowl before taxes. At Santosei, the egg comes with all their ramen bowls already! With my usual extras the bill only came to about $13 before taxes. Better ramen and cheaper prices?? WIN!!!
All in all, I'm in love with this place now. My only gripe is I keep craving to come back!! It's a problem I'll just have to deal with I guess..