Ajisen Ramen and Bar (Church/Carlton) — Restaurant in Toronto

came here the other night and was expecting a casual ramen spot like their other locations but was totally taken aback when i walked in. The renovations looked fantastic and the staff greeted me with a loud and enthusiastic irasshaimase the minute I walked through the door. You know it’s going to be a good experience when the staff greet you like a long lost friend even though it’s your first time there. We tried to order the tom yum steak ramen but they were unfortunately sold out for the night, so we settled for a spicy beef ramen and a spicy miso pork ramen instead. Ive always enjoyed a good spicy meal, and Ajisen is probably the mecca in Toronto for spicy ramen offerings. I’ve tried pretty much all the ramen offerings in Toronto at this point and always come back to Ajisen for their spicy broths. Both their mala broth and spicy miso broth were delicious, and the presentation was on point. If you’re looking for a spicy ramen, look no further, Ajisen does spicy broths better than any other.

One interesting thing to note about this location is it that it’s a fusion between your regular run of the mill, family friendly Ajisen and an izakaya-ish bar. They had a large drink menu with cocktails and shots, though we only got to try their Kyoto blue. It was honestly pretty good for a ramen place, it’s not mind blowing compared to the premier bars in the area, but it was definitely a respectable attempt and they don’t skimp on the alcohol quality (suntory whisky is hella expensive and they seemed to offer it in most of their cocktails). We were also told there would be exciting new tapas for after their grand opening (tba) though we didn’t think that was needed given their already extensive and stellar tapas menu couldve functioned as an izakaya on its own. All in all, this is definitely a different spot compared to the Ajisens i’ve been to, but I definitely prefer this one more. The staff seemed to genuinely care about the food and you as a customer, and that’s hard to find nowadays in the corporatized world that’s dominated the restaurant scene recently. Not to mention, the food is genuinely good quality and i haven’t been able to find another ramen chain that has a spicy broth even close to the level of Ajisen’s.

Key takeaway: This is more of a bar-ish izakaya-ish ramen joint, so expect loud music and a younger crowd.

Recommendations: Go for their Spicy beef ramen, Tom yum steak ramen, spicy miso pork ramen. If you’re worried about the spice level, make sure to ask for less spice.

Areas for improvement: they should make it more obvious that this is a ramen + bar and not a regular Ajisen. You wouldn’t be able to tell that this was a different vibe unless you walked in or peeked through the windows.

Areas that were done well: Excellent service and vibe. The chefs seemed to really care about the food, and the servers seemed passionate about it as well. This is really hard to find nowadays, if their entire staff believes in their product, id probably be wise to take note. Cocktail menu was also good value, though i wish it had...

Ajisen Ramen is a familiar name to noodle lovers around the world, and its Toronto outposts carry the same comforting blend of speed, consistency, and umami-packed flavor that made the brand a global hit. Originally founded in Kumamoto, Japan in 1968, Ajisen specializes in a distinctive white broth ramen — tonkotsu-style, but with its own twist.

The Ramen

Ajisen’s signature broth is what sets it apart. Unlike the richer, heavier tonkotsu broths found in some boutique ramen shops, Ajisen’s soup is slightly lighter, clearer, and infused with a subtle garlic kick. It’s made from pork bones simmered long enough to build depth, but the result is less fatty and more approachable for everyday cravings.

The noodles are springy and hold their texture well, even when swimming in hot broth. The "Ajisen Ramen" (their namesake bowl) is a great starting point — topped with chashu (pork), kikurage mushrooms, green onions, and half a soft-boiled egg. Add-ons like spicy miso, extra pork, or deep-fried cutlets (tonkatsu, karaage) let you customize your bowl to your heart’s content.

Beyond the Ramen

Ajisen’s menu goes well beyond noodles. Rice bowls, bento boxes, and side dishes like takoyaki, gyoza, or seaweed salad make it easy to share or build a full meal. The karaage (Japanese fried chicken) is especially popular — crisp, juicy, and well-seasoned.

Atmosphere & Service

Expect a casual, fast-paced setting — clean, modern, and efficient. Many Ajisen locations in Toronto are mall-adjacent or in busy districts, making them great for a quick bite during lunch breaks or after shopping. Service is prompt and friendly, with a streamlined ordering process that’s ideal for solo diners, families, or groups.

Final Thoughts

Ajisen Ramen may not be a “craft ramen” shop chasing Instagram trends, but that’s exactly why it works. It’s reliable, accessible, and comforting — the kind of place you return to for a warm, satisfying meal that hits the spot every time. Whether you're new to ramen or a seasoned slurper looking for a quick fix, Ajisen delivers with a balance of flavor,...

Great food, WORST SERVER.

I visited here last night 28th of April, around 9:20pm. I hope the restaurant finds the server and let him face consequences.

I ordered one Ajisen, One spicy Ajisen ramen, one Karaage, and one steak sizzling plate. The server with the temper problem was 20-25 young Asian, no beard, medium long hair.

It wasn't full and as we walked in, one Asian young man comes up and serving us.

As two men, we ordered two main noodles and two sides. We never called or bothered or any of that. As soon as we finished one side, they started taking plates without asking. Yeah, it's okay it happens. I am very livid because the server crossed the line by taking the soup he was finishing. I kept saying "Let him finish." The server turned around, and literally said "I asked you guys several times! What do you want me to do! You didn't answer!" as he walking away from us with slurring out.

Geez, I guess he has a temper issue. This one interaction gave me a great reason to forget what I had. We might spoke Korean there cuz he is from there. I might have looked like poor cuz I was wet from the rain and we walked a while.

However man, you don't get to talk down on people because they look different or speak a different language. That man you ignored might be the google local guide who's been in Toronto for years.

The experience was disastrous thanks to that young man. He is lucky that my friend stopped me there I didn't call the manager and even paid him tip for the poorest service as a man. I guess I will not ever coming back here. My friend was in Canada to take his deceased brother. It was our first meal after taking things out of his unit. And you singlehandedly ruined that meal. You better not work in the service industry if you cannot handle...