Ramen Tokaiya — Restaurant in Otaru

We came here hunting for warm food to drive out the chill. We had chosen Tokaiya due to positive reviews from the web and also its convenient proximity within Otaru town.

The environment is cosy and the staffs are very friendly. Ordering food for a foreigner is convenient as the menu is simole and is in English as well. Staffs speak some English though not much communication is required as it's not complex to order ramen. The restaurant was not crowded when we visited Tokaiya at 6.30pm though local regulars come by for dinner constantly.

My family ordered the Soyu and Charsiew ramen. The ramen and soup stock didn't disappointed us. The Charsiew I must say surpassed our expectations. Pork fats melts in your mouth while soup is not too salty yet retained it's powerful savoury flavor.

We left the restaurant as happy and satisfied customers.

I'd recommend Tokaiya Ramen to my friends who visit Otaru...

I wandered into this store after seeing the absurd lines at Sankaku Market, and the heavy snow outside.

This is a small ramen store, with counter seating for about 10-12 people, divided with a privacy barrier every 2 seats. They serve three types of ramen (soy sauce, miso, and a specialty BBQ pork miso), as well as rice and gyoza.

I got the normal miso ramen, an order of gyoza, and a beer. The ramen came out w/ a small spoon of spicy miso, that you can add to your bowl, should you wish. The broth was flavorful, and filled with small chunks of flame-charred pork, which added a wonderful bitter and savory taste.

The gyoza were crispy on the bottom and soft up top (pork and cabbage filled).

Overall, a great meal, but just be prepared for a wait, due to the limited counter seating. There is only a singular chef, so it takes a bit of time for customers to cycle through. Total cost was...

Ramen Tokaiya in Otaru is a must-visit for ramen enthusiasts and families alike. Known for its rich, flavorful broth and springy noodles, the restaurant offers a satisfying, hearty meal perfect for the chilly Hokkaido weather. The miso-based ramen is a standout, boasting a deep umami taste, and the generous toppings, like tender chashu and perfectly cooked eggs, enhance the overall experience.

The establishment is child-friendly, with a cozy and welcoming atmosphere that caters well to families. The staff are accommodating, and the menu offers options that can suit children’s palates. Coupled with its warm ambiance and delicious food, Ramen Tokaiya is an excellent choice for a family meal in Otaru. Visiting during off-peak hours is recommended as it...