Ottawa Ramen: Where to Go When You Need Warmth
Ottawa winters are serious, and few meals are better suited to a cold evening than a carefully prepared bowl of ramen. The city's ramen scene has grown impressively over the past decade, with options ranging from quick and satisfying casual spots to more considered takes on the form.
Here is a guide to some of Ottawa's best ramen destinations.
Kichi Ramen
Located in the Glebe, Kichi is one of Ottawa's most beloved ramen spots. The broth, particularly the tonkotsu, is rich and deeply flavoured, developed over long cook times in the traditional style. The karaage chicken is a standout side. Expect a wait on weekend evenings; it is worth it.
Kinton Ramen
Kinton brings its well-regarded Toronto-born ramen formula to Ottawa, offering a range of broths from the classic tonkotsu to chicken and spicy variants. It is a reliable and satisfying option in the downtown core, particularly for a lunch that will keep you warm through an Ottawa afternoon.
SumoSumo
SumoSumo adds Korean-influenced flavour profiles to its ramen offerings, giving Ottawa diners something slightly different from the Japanese-style shops. The spicy options are genuinely heat-forward, and the portions are generous.
Making It a Meal
Whatever Ottawa ramen spot you choose, lean into the extras: gyoza, extra eggs, bamboo shoots, and a good chashu pork make a great bowl even better. Many Ottawa ramen restaurants also offer customization on richness level and noodle firmness, do not be shy about adjusting to your preferences.
For Ottawa food lovers, winter is actually the best time to explore the ramen scene. Pull on your boots, brave the cold, and reward yourself with a bowl that makes the walk worth it.
Source: Ottawa food scene, ottown editorial
