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| - Even though this review is on the Kinton Ramen 5 page, the experience also comes from Kinton Ramen 2 on Bloor, which was equally great, to cut to the chase. Having eaten at the "big 3" ramen places in Toronto (that is, the most talked about ones, among other things), Kinton, Sansotei and Momofuku, I've concluded that Kinton is the best of the bunch. The portions are larger, and yet it's more affordable than the other two. I would shy away from getting the "rich" soup because it is essentially the regular broth, with lardons added to it (pieces of fat, if you're not from Quebec), which I personally was not a big fan of and had to pick around. However, the broth is rich and very umami, tastier than those of Sansotei and Momofuku. I would also suggest getting the pork shoulder (and doubling it, if you're super hungry), because there is a smaller meat-to-fat ratio, and so you get more meat. The spicy garlic is an excellent choice, or if you don't want excessive garlic breathe for the rest of your day, get the regular and ask for the Japanese chili flakes to put in to spice it up. My only criticism is that there are fewer accompaniments (egg, sprouts, corn, etc) than other ramen places; but I'd certainly sacrifice fewer of these for the greater amount of broth, noodles and meat they give you. I'd suggest getting a bar table by the open kitchen, because you get to watch the cook's at work, which can be very lively and entertaining (think teppanyaki but without all the fanciness). Would definitely go back!
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