Located in Kikusui, Shiroishi-ku, Sapporo, Chuka Soba California is an incredibly popular restaurant that has maintained its popularity since opening in 2015. It serves "Hachioji-style ramen," a rare find in Sapporo.

The shop is a 5-minute walk from Kikusui Station on the Sapporo Municipal Subway. Tucked away in a residential area, it has one parking space. True to its name, the exterior has a peculiar charm that doesn't quite scream "ramen shop." Inside, you'll find seven counter seats and three tables, making it suitable for groups and families.

"Chashu & Meat Wonton Soba (Black)"

The most popular item is the "Chashu & Meat Wonton Soba (Black)." It's a fantastic value, featuring a light and clear soup topped with generous portions of wontons and chashu pork!

An incredible 890 yen (tax included) for 4 slices of chashu & 3 meaty wontons.

The soup has a light flavor, yet it's packed with deliciousness. The secret to its taste lies in the umami from seafood ingredients like dried sardines, round herring, and mackerel flakes. Furthermore, a crisp soy sauce blend and an aromatic oil infused with vegetable umami are key points.

To achieve a unique texture, the owner insists on noodles with a "rough surface feel," which have been sourced from Tamura Seimen in Hachioji since the shop's opening. For a time, they switched to a Sapporo-based noodle company, but they couldn't replicate the desired texture and have since returned to the original noodles. Their firm, snappy texture pairs perfectly with the delicious dried fish and bonito-flake soup.

"Neo-Classic Chuka Soba" 770 yen (tax included)

The "Neo-Classic Chuka Soba," which was promoted from a limited-time special to a regular menu item, shares the same soup base as the Chashu & Meat Wonton Soba but creates a different mood with variations in the soy sauce and green onions used in its aromatic oil. The soy sauce tare also incorporates the broth from simmering the chashu. Its simple yet profound flavor makes it a truly neo-classic bowl.

Using thin, straight noodles, you can fully enjoy the pleasure of slurping up the long strands! Cooked al dente, they allow you to savor the unique texture the owner is so particular about.

The owner, Mr. Yuto, is a huge fan of chuka soba himself. Wanting to spread his love for it, he initially offered it for just a 500-yen coin when the shop first opened. Although the price has since changed, he continues to strive to keep it affordable for as many people as possible, even with today's rising ingredient costs—a truly admirable effort. This is a special bowl that will make you a fan after just one taste. Be sure to give it a try.

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