Lines guaranteed — Susukino's new sensation.

Menya Suzuran

TEXT/YUSUKE TOKOSHIMA, PHOTO/NAOKO TAKAHASHI

A landmark, endearing sign right in the heart of Susukino. Suzuki, who trained at a long-established ramen shop in Sapporo, opened this place just a year and a half ago. It quickly built a reputation after opening, and has since become a well-loved shop among ramen enthusiasts. One distinctive feature is its many fans who are themselves restaurant owners. Open until 6:00 AM, it’s the perfect spot to finish off a night out in Susukino.

What the owner most wants customers to try is the Chicken Broth Shio Ramen, 750 yen. Hokkaido jidori chicken is slow-simmered over low heat, then combined with kelp and seafood for a clear, translucent broth — concentrating the chicken's richness and the seafood's umami. Since the owner's family ran an oden shop, Japanese-style flavor accents find their way into the ramen. The noodles are medium-thin and straight. The house-smoked egg and the tender simmered chicken char siu pair beautifully with the broth. Fu (wheat gluten), nori, scallions, menma, and other toppings round out the bowl.

Menya Suzuran

Minami 5-jo Nishi 4-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
TEL.011-512-3501
Hours: 8:00 PM–6:00 AM (next day)
Closed: Sundays