Best Ramen in Ottawa

Ottawa's ramen scene has exploded in recent years. What was once a niche offering is now a proper category with multiple serious contenders. From rich tonkotsu to lighter shoyu, customizable builds to elegant dining rooms — the capital has options. Here are 5 spots worth knowing.

1. Sansotei Ramen — The Tonkotsu Specialist

Sansotei Ramen is one of Canada's most recognized ramen chains, with roots in Toronto and locations across Ontario and Quebec. Their specialty is authentic Tonkotsu ramen inspired by the Kyushu and Hokkaido regions of Japan.

The broth is slow-simmered for maximum richness. Generous toppings, affordable prices, and vegetarian options including tofu-based ramen make this a reliable choice across three Ottawa locations.

What to order: Black Tonkotsu, Vegetarian Ramen, Gyoza.

Good to know: Three locations — Bank Street downtown, Merivale Road, Strandherd Drive. Mon-Sat 11am-10pm.

Neighbourhood: Downtown (Bank Street)

2. Koichi Ramen — The Customizable One

Koichi Ramen sits in the heart of Ottawa's Chinatown and offers full customization — choose your broth, protein, noodle firmness, and spice level to build your perfect bowl.

The original Somerset Street location has been a Chinatown fixture, now joined by a second location in Westboro. Both maintain the same quality and options.

What to order: Build your own, Spicy Miso, Karaage.

Good to know: Two locations — Somerset (Chinatown) and Richmond Rd (Westboro). Daily 11:30am-10pm.

Neighbourhood: Chinatown (Somerset Street West)

3. Kinton Ramen — The Hot & Cold One

Kinton Ramen is a national chain that brings variety to Ottawa's ramen scene. Beyond the usual hot bowls, they're known for chilled ramen — a staple in Japan during summer months.

The Elgin Street location is downtown, with another location on Strandherd Drive. The Yuzu Shio offers a lighter, citrus-forward alternative to heavy tonkotsu.

What to order: Original Tonkotsu, Chilled Ramen (summer), Yuzu Shio.

Good to know: Two locations — Elgin Street downtown, Strandherd Drive south. Daily 11:30am-10pm.

Neighbourhood: Downtown (Elgin Street)

4. Ramen Isshin — The Authentic Bar

Ramen Isshin — the name means "one heart, one ramen" — brings authentic Japanese ramen bar culture to Ottawa. The sleek, modern interior with an open kitchen replicates the experience of eating at a counter in Japan.

Located on Bank Street in the Glebe, they offer a wide variety including solid vegetarian options. The atmosphere alone is worth the visit.

What to order: Tonkotsu, Shoyu, Ajitama Egg add-on.

Good to know: Mon-Sun 11:30am-9pm. Walk-in only.

Neighbourhood: The Glebe (Bank Street)

5. Taki Ramen — The Elegant One

Taki Ramen stands out for its interior — sleek cement walls, dim lighting, and clean wooden furniture create one of the most elegant ramen dining experiences in Ottawa.

Conveniently located near Lees LRT station with free parking behind the building, Taki offers rich broths and neatly arranged toppings in a modern setting.

What to order: Tonkotsu, Spicy Miso, Gyoza.

Good to know: Daily 11am-10pm. Free parking behind building. Near Lees LRT.

Neighbourhood: Sandy Hill (Lees Avenue)

The Quick Comparison

Ramen Styles Explained

• Tonkotsu — Rich, creamy pork bone broth. Most common style. Sansotei, Koichi, Kinton.
• Shoyu — Soy sauce-based, lighter and clearer. Ramen Isshin.
• Miso — Fermented soybean paste base. Hearty and umami-rich.
• Shio — Salt-based, lightest style. Kinton's Yuzu Shio.

Tips

• For authentic atmosphere — Ramen Isshin's open kitchen setup.
• For customization — Koichi lets you build exactly what you want.
• For convenience — Sansotei has three locations across the city.
• For summer — Kinton's chilled ramen is refreshing.
• For transit — Taki is steps from Lees LRT with free parking.
• For Chinatown — Koichi on Somerset Street.