Santouka 山頭火
Santouka is a major chain of ramen restaurants around the world, which originates from Asahikawa, Hokkaido. They serve tonkotsu ramen, but not your usual Kyushu style.
In fact, they have their own Asahikawa tonkotsu style, which fuses a sweet seafood broth with the original rich Kyushu style tonkotsu broth.
So what can we expect from this quaint little bowl of ramen?
Sweet, savoury yet mild, Santouka's broth is much lighter than other Kyushu style shops like Keisuke and Ikkousha. Although this reduces some of the impact in that first mouthful, it makes crushing the bowl much easier.
The chashu was thick, yet tender. It brings a much deeper, richer flavor as compared to the broth itself. A nice break from the otherwise boring broth.
Santouka's lunch set comes with a selection of different side dishes. I had the inari sushi and gyoza, which were acceptable. Nowhere near good though.
A hearty shio-tonkotsu broth which might appeal more to those who prefer lighter flavors. Those who prefer richer, deeper flavors, though, might find it a bit too light on their appetite.
Nevertheless, one of the better (and popular) ramen shops in Singapore.
6 Eu Tong Sen Street, #02-76 The Central, Clarke Quay Central, Singapore 059817
Nearest Station: Clarke Quay
Daily: 1100 - 2145
Price Range: Low 20s
