Tabelog ratingItadakimasu. (いただきます。) is a Sapporo institution dedicated to Genghis Khan, the tabletop lamb barbecue synonymous with Hokkaido. What sets it apart is its exclusive use of locally-raised Suffolk lamb, a breed prized for its bright, clean flavour and remarkable lack of gaminess. Diners grill the meat themselves on a domed skillet, experiencing a quality of lamb that many reviewers, even those who typically dislike it, find surprisingly addictive.
The star of the menu is the Hokkaido-grown Suffolk lamb. Guests consistently praise the rosu (loin) and kata-rosu (shoulder) cuts for their sweet fat and tender texture. A combination plate of these cuts recently cost reviewers around ¥2,460. Other popular items include the flavourful lamb sausages (クラコウソーセージ, around ¥780) and grilled lamb cheeses. For a broader taste, a tasting plate comparing Hokkaido and New Zealand lamb was available for about ¥1,480. A full dinner for two can cost around ¥9,000, while typical individual spend is ¥5,000–¥6,000 for dinner and ¥2,000–¥3,000 for lunch.
While the food receives high marks, the experience comes with caveats. The restaurant is extremely popular, and many visitors report long waits of 30 to 90 minutes and a confusing waitlist system for walk-ins. The ventilation is poor, so expect your clothes to absorb a significant amount of smoke. Service can be brusque, and popular cuts often sell out early. For those prioritizing top-tier lamb flavour over comfort and portion size, it offers good value; for others, the trade-offs may be too great.
- Getting there: Itadakimasu. is a 2-minute walk from Exit 4 of Susukino Station on the Sapporo Municipal Subway Namboku Line.
- Reservations: Strongly recommended. Walk-ins should expect long queues, and phone lines can be difficult to reach.
- Payment: Visa, Master, JCB, Amex, and Diners cards are accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments are not. Reviewers suggest bringing cash in case the card machine is unavailable. Note there is a separate vegetable fee of ¥330 per person.
- Seating: Mostly counter seats, with one private room on the second floor.
- Children: School-age children are welcome.
- Practicalities: The dining room is not well-ventilated and gets very smoky. The menu is primarily in Japanese, though staff are generally helpful to international visitors. Popular cuts can sell out, so arrive early for the best selection.
- Smoking: Non-smoking inside. An ashtray is available outside.
- Parking: Two spaces are available in front of the restaurant, with paid coin parking nearby.
