Hokkaido Ramen Santouka
"The best ramen near BU, period. The shio broth is legendary - you can taste those 20 hours of simmering. Worth the wait and the trek to Allston."
Last verified: 2024-12-20
What to Order
- Shio Ramen - their signature salt-based broth, rich and creamy, simmered 20+ hours
- Spicy Miso Ramen - if you like heat
- Chashu (extra pork) - the melt-in-your-mouth pork is incredible, always upgrade
- Gyoza - crispy bottoms, juicy inside
What to Avoid
- Peak dinner hours (6-8pm) - lines out the door
- Going alone and taking a 4-top - counter seating is fine solo
- Skipping the chashu upgrade - seriously, just do it
The Full Review
Santouka is the real deal - a Japanese chain that takes ramen seriously. The shio (salt) ramen is the signature, and it's creamy, rich, and deeply satisfying in a way that cheap instant ramen can never be. The broth is simmered for 20+ hours and you can taste every minute.
The pork chashu is the star - slow-cooked until it literally melts in your mouth. Get the extra chashu upgrade. Your future self will thank you.
This place gets BUSY, especially on cold days when everyone in Boston wants hot soup. The line can stretch out the door, but it moves reasonably fast. Counter seating is standard for solo diners - don't be shy.
This isn't the place for a long, lingering meal - eat your ramen while it's hot and move on. The noodles will get soggy if you wait. But the food quality justifies the no-frills, eat-and-go experience.
The Allston location is one of their most popular, and there's also a Back Bay location if you're on that side of town.
Details
Hours
Location
169 Brighton Ave, Allston
Allston * 0.5 mi from campus
Delivery
Features
Best For
What Students Say
"Santouka on a cold day is genuinely healing. The shio broth goes crazy."
"I waited 45 minutes for this ramen and I'd do it again tomorrow. The chashu is unreal."
"This place ruined instant ramen for me forever. Worth the $16."
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best ramen at Santouka?
The Shio (salt-based) ramen is their signature - a rich, creamy broth simmered for 20+ hours. Always add extra chashu.
Is there a wait at Santouka?
Often yes, especially at dinner time (6-8pm) and on cold days. Lines move fast but can stretch out the door.
Is Santouka good for groups?
It's better for solo or pairs - mostly counter seating. For groups, go during off-peak hours.
Does Santouka have vegetarian options?
Yes, they have a vegetarian ramen option with a soy-based broth.