Nanabe: One of Sapporo's Best Ramen Shops (That Hardly Anyone Talks About)

Located on the quieter east side of Sapporo, Menya Nanabe (麺屋 菜々兵衛) is one of those ramen shops that doesn’t get much buzz in English. But it should. Ask locals or ramen-obsessed travelers in the know, and Nanabe is near the top of the list. For me, it’s become one of my absolute favorites in Sapporo—maybe the favorite.

Nanabe’s ramen is thoughtful in every sense. Each bowl feels carefully constructed. Nothing clashes. Everything just works.

They’ve got two locations: one in Susukino (central Sapporo), and one near the Historical Village of Hokkaido on the city’s east side. If you're planning a visit to the Village, it's the perfect stop before or after. Expect a short line at lunch—locals clearly know what’s up.

Nagoya Cochin Ramen: Gentle with Real Depth

This bowl is either seasoned with shio (salt) or shoyu (soy sauce). Pictured here is the shio version—a gentle yet deeply flavorful chicken-and-fish broth.

The chicken component uses Nagoya Cochin, a prized breed known for its richness and depth. The fish adds a soft oceanic brightness that rounds out the flavor beautifully.

This is a masterclass in restraint. Every sip feels carefully engineered—light on the palate but rich in character.

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Spicy Miso Ramen: Heat with Harmony

Nanabe’s spicy miso ramen brings more punch, but still stays remarkably balanced. You can choose your spice level (1 to 3), and even the highest setting won’t blow your head off. The miso base adds sweetness and body, while the chili delivers a slow-building, satisfying heat.

That sweetness also comes from the generous white and green negi (spring onions). There's also a stir-fried smokiness that ties everything together.

Tori Paitan: Rich, Silky, and Perfectly Balanced

The third standout at Nanabe is their tori paitan—a creamy, chicken-based ramen. While some paitan soups lean overly thick or heavy, Nanabe’s version is smooth, silky, and restrained.

It’s the kind of bowl that could easily feel too rich in the wrong hands. Not here. Every spoonful feels indulgent without going overboard.

Final Thoughts on Nanabe Ramen in Sapporo

Whether you go to the east side or the central Susukino location, Nanabe is a ramen destination worth seeking out. The chef might seem all business, quietly focused on preparing each bowl. But he's a softy at heart and cares deeply about his craft.

Sapporo is full of big-name ramen shops. But if you want something a little more under the radar and deeply satisfying, Nanabe belongs on your list.

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