Location Highlight: Hokkaido Ramen Santouka (Back Bay)
Ratings:
Overall: 4.5/5
Food: 5/5
Price: 4.5/5
Cleanliness: 4/5
Service: 4/5
What it lacks in size it is very much so compensated by the delicious and soulful ramen. This place was recommended by a friend and it is located in the heart of Boston within the Back Bay neighborhood. With all the other attractions around this area, including the well-known Prudential Center and the always-busy Newbury Street, it is easy to miss this little restaurant tucked away on the side. However, what I found out after eating here was that this is truly a diamond in the rough.
Santouka is a Japanese chain that offers a roster of ramen including Shio, Shoyu, and Miso, among others. Personally, I ordered the Shio ramen, which has a mild salt flavor, and is articulated by its “delicious taste, aroma and gentle flavor”. In my most honest opinion, while not being a connoisseur of ramen, this had to have been the best ramen I have ever had. Both refreshing and filling, and at a reasonable price, I will definitely be returning soon.
With the restaurant being so limited on its indoor seating, my friends and I easily could have arrived to find there to be a long wait. If this was the case, I very easily may have not eaten here. Thankfully, we arrived right before the rush of other customers and were quickly seated to a table. Unfortunately, the limited capacity is the one downside. But the food is well worth it. The chain originated in Japan and has been expanding overseas and in the US. There is another Santouka in Boston Harvard Square, so I will have to try the other location out in the near future. Finally, to quote the wish of the founder, Hitoshi Hatanaka, he said “we would like you to try our ramen and enjoy its delicious flavor to the last drop”. So, go check it out! Enjoy!
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And here is a link to the restaurant’s website: https://www.santouka.co.jp/en/shop-foreign/usa/foreign01-012