Guide to the Best Genghis Khan Lamb Restaurants in Sapporo

Sapporo is famous for its savory lamb barbecue known locally as Genghis Khan. This dish features high-quality mutton or lamb grilled on a unique convex metal skillet. It remains a top Sapporo winter food must try experience for every hungry traveler. The sizzling meat pairs perfectly with crisp local vegetables and cold Sapporo beer.

Legend says the dish name comes from the helmet shape of the traditional grilling pan. Each restaurant offers a secret dipping sauce that enhances the rich flavor of the meat. You will find many cozy spots tucked away in the vibrant Susukino entertainment district. Dining here provides a warm escape from the freezing Hokkaido winter landscape in 2026.

Finding the right spot can be difficult due to the many choices available today. Some venues focus on marinated meat while others serve fresh lamb with separate dipping sauces. This guide will help you navigate the top-rated establishments across the snowy city. Prepare your appetite for a smoky and delicious journey through the best lamb in Japan.

Experience Tradition at Daruma Main Shop

For the most up-to-date details, check Sapporo Travel - Official Sapporo Tourism Website before you go.

For the most up-to-date details, check Hokkaido University before you go.

Daruma is arguably the most famous name for Genghis Khan lamb barbecue in all of Hokkaido. This legendary establishment first opened its doors in 1954 in the heart of Susukino. The main shop is tiny with only a few counter seats surrounding the central grill. You will likely see a long line of locals and tourists waiting outside the door.

The menu is simple but focuses on providing the highest quality grain-fed mutton available. You order by the plate and the staff place a piece of fat on the grill. They then add a generous serving of onions and leeks to the outer rim. The meat is incredibly tender and lacks the gamey smell often associated with older mutton.

Prices for a standard plate start around 1,300 yen in early 2026. Their secret soy-based dipping sauce is legendary and contains a balanced mix of spices. You can add garlic or red pepper to the sauce to suit your personal taste. Most diners order at least two or three plates to satisfy their cravings during dinner.

The atmosphere inside Daruma is smoky, loud, and incredibly authentic for a Japanese grill shop. Locker boxes are provided to keep your coats and bags safe from the lingering charcoal smoke. Expect to wait between 30 to 60 minutes during peak evening hours on weekends. The experience of sitting at the historic counter makes every minute of waiting worthwhile.

Address: South 5, West 4, Chuo-ku, Sapporo. Hours: 5:00 PM to 3:00 AM daily.

Feast at the Iconic Sapporo Beer Garden

For an grander dining experience, head to the historic halls of the Sapporo Beer Garden. This massive venue is located inside a beautiful red-brick building from the Meiji era. It offers a majestic atmosphere that is perfect for large groups or festive family gatherings. You can combine your meal with a Sapporo beer museum winter tour for a full afternoon.

The garden offers various dining halls like the Kessel Hall which features a massive brewing cauldron. They are famous for their all-you-can-eat and all-you-can-drink plans that last for 100 minutes. This is the best value if you want to eat large quantities of lamb. The meat arrives in thin slices that cook quickly on the heated domes.

Expect to pay around 5,500 yen for a full buffet plan in 2026. This price usually includes fresh Hokkaido vegetables and multiple types of premium draft beer. The staff are very efficient at refilling your plates and keeping the drinks flowing. It is an excellent choice for a loud and cheerful winter celebration with friends.

Vegetarians can also enjoy the buffet as it includes plenty of potatoes, corn, and cabbage. The facility is much larger than the cramped shops in downtown Susukino. You should book a table online at least one week in advance during winter. The garden is located a short bus ride away from Sapporo Station for convenience.

Address: 9-2-10, Kita 7-jo Higashi, Higashi-ku, Sapporo. Hours: 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM.

Taste Premium Quality at Itadakimasu

Itadakimasu is unique because they raise their own sheep on a private farm in Hokkaido. This ensures the meat is exceptionally fresh and traceable from the farm to your plate. They serve a rare breed of sheep known as Suffolk lamb which is highly prized. This restaurant is perfect for foodies who want the absolute best quality meat possible.

The restaurant offers various cuts including loin, shoulder, and even organ meats for adventurous diners. Their succulent lamb chops are a highlight that many regular customers order every visit. The meat is never frozen which preserves the natural juices and delicate texture. You will notice a clean and refined flavor profile compared to other shops.

Prices here are slightly higher due to the premium nature of the locally sourced livestock. A single plate of high-grade lamb loin may cost roughly 2,000 yen in 2026. The interior is modern and features better ventilation than the older, traditional charcoal shops. It is a great place for a more relaxed and comfortable dining experience.

They also serve specialty items like lamb sausages and smoked tongue for a different taste. The restaurant is located near the Susukino subway station making it very easy to find. It fills up quickly so arriving right at opening time is a smart strategy. This is a must-visit for anyone serious about exploring high-end Hokkaido lamb production.

Address: South 5, West 5, Chuo-ku, Sapporo. Hours: 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM.

Enjoy the Marinade at Matsuo Jingisukan

Matsuo Jingisukan is the leading expert in the Takikawa style of lamb barbecue. Unlike Daruma, they marinate the meat in a rich sauce before it reaches the grill. The marinade uses a blend of apples, onions, soy sauce, and secret ginger spices. This creates a very tender and sweet flavor that many children and families love.

When cooking here, the vegetables are placed in the moat of the skillet with extra sauce. This simmers the vegetables like a hot pot while the meat grills on the dome. The result is flavorful cabbage and sprouts that have absorbed all the tasty meat juices. It offers a different texture and taste compared to the dry-grill method.

The Sapporo Ekimae branch is very convenient for travelers staying near the main train station. In 2026, they offer lunch sets that are very affordable for budget-conscious explorers. You can enjoy a full meal with rice and soup for under 2,500 yen. The shop is bright and clean with very professional English-speaking service available.

They also sell vacuum-packed marinated lamb that you can take back to your accommodation. This is a popular option for locals who want to host a private party. Try their premium "Tokujo" lamb for the most tender experience on the menu. This establishment provides a consistent and high-quality meal every single time you visit.

Address: Kita 3-jo Nishi 4-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo. Hours: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Discover Local Favorites at Ramu

Ramu is a cozy spot that is highly recommended by Sapporo residents for its value. The shop focuses on providing chilled lamb rather than frozen meat for better flavor. It has a very welcoming feel that makes you feel like a local regular. The staff are friendly and happy to show beginners how to grill correctly.

One of the best features of Ramu is their thick-cut lamb steaks that stay juicy. These larger pieces are perfect for those who enjoy a medium-rare finish on their meat. They use high-quality charcoal which imparts a wonderful smoky aroma to everything you cook. The simple salt and pepper seasoning allows the meat flavor to shine through.

A meal here typically costs between 3,000 and 4,500 yen including a couple of drinks. It is often less crowded than the famous Daruma shops but the quality is comparable. This makes it an excellent alternative if you want to avoid the massive tourist lines. You can check our Sapporo winter travel guide 2026 for more local secrets.

The shop is located slightly away from the main Susukino crossroads in a quieter street. This location adds to the charm of discovering a hidden culinary gem in the city. You should try their spicy dipping sauce if you want an extra kick. Most people leave Ramu feeling satisfied without spending a fortune on their dinner.

Address: South 4, West 4, Chuo-ku, Sapporo. Hours: 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sapporo offers an incredible variety of Genghis Khan restaurants for every taste and budget. Whether you choose a tiny historic counter or a grand beer hall, the experience is unforgettable. This hearty meal is the perfect way to stay warm and energized during 2026. Make sure to try different shops to find your favorite secret dipping sauce.

Remember to wear casual clothes as the charcoal smoke will likely cling to your fabric. Most restaurants provide bags or lockers to protect your coats from the strong aromas. Bring your friends and enjoy a cold beer while the meat sizzles on the grill. Your winter trip to Hokkaido is not complete without this iconic culinary tradition.

Key Takeaways

• Daruma is the best for a traditional, small-scale counter experience.
• Sapporo Beer Garden offers the best value with all-you-can-eat plans.
• Itadakimasu provides the highest quality locally raised Suffolk lamb.
• Wear washable clothes as the charcoal smoke is quite strong.
• Book larger venues in advance for 2026 winter travel dates.

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