Hungry yet? You should be.

Having been out of town for awhile Kintaro topped my list of places to visit upon my return to Vancouver. We have reviewed this restaurant on BR before and I have personally checked out other restaurants like it but nothing can really compare to the quality and consistency of the delicious food at Kintaro so let's recap what Kintaro has on offer.

This ramen house, located on Denman at Robson street, usually starts with a wait at the door if you arrive after 7 pm. The turnover is quick so do not give up! You might have to wait longer if you want a private table but if sitting at the bar or with a group at the table in front is okay the wait will not be long.

Many other ramen houses have been popping up around Kintaro, but no matter how high-end pretty the new establishments can be I have yet to find one that can come close. Not as good, too few ingredients, too expensive, the list goes on. Kintaro has it all and the cost is really low. So why try another place at all? Monday nights. Kintaro is closed on Monday nights. Atmosphere might be another consideration if you require a formal dining experience.

The menu has a good selection of ramen dishes and a few tapas. My personal favourite is the miso ramen which has a bit of everything. You choose your preferred pork, fatty or lean, and your sauce can be either rich or light. It's all good so order what you think your stomach can handle. There are veggie options too, also recommended, but all selections have their fair share of veggies so unless you are truly vegetarian there is no reason to hold back from the pork dish.

There is one thing about this restaurant that scares me: cheese ramen. The menu claims that "the ladies loooove it" [sic]. The only people I have ever seen order this dish are lost tourists who aren't really sure what ramen is. I'm not sure it would be the best introduction to ramen, but if vegetables scare you... good luck with that. All that cheese and meat can't be good for anyone, but I'm sure it tastes delicious as it goes down if that's what you're into.

Kintaro is a popular spot for anyone with a love of ramen. Some might say it's the best ramen to be had in the city and I would have to concur.

Kintaro Ramen
788 Denman St., Vancouver
Tel: 604-682-7568

Photo: Ryan Weal