Tabelog ratingLe Coq (るこっく) is a small, bustling counter bar in Sapporo that has built a serious reputation around two things: chicken and shōchū. The house specialty, praised in nearly every review, is the stewed local-chicken dumplings (地鶏の炊き餃子, jidori no taki-gyoza). Served in a rich, collagen-heavy chicken broth, the large dumplings are a meal in themselves, and many guests finish the flavourful soup with a side of rice or chanpon noodles.
Beyond the dumplings, the menu is a celebration of chicken in all its forms. Reviewers consistently praise the chicken sashimi and tataki (鶏刺し), chicken liver sashimi (鶏レバー刺し), and fried preparations like toriten and karaage. The quality is high, yet prices are modest, making it a popular choice for those seeking value. A typical dinner costs around ¥4,000–¥5,000. Reviewers recently paid about ¥1,400 for the signature dumplings, ¥850 for chicken tataki, and ¥1,400–¥2,100 for a sashimi platter. For drinkers, the extensive, often self-serve shōchū selection and an economical ¥2,000 all-you-can-drink (nomihodai) option are major draws.
However, the experience comes with caveats. The small counter space can feel cramped and is often smoky, as smoking is permitted throughout. More significantly, a number of guests report the service can be cold, brusque, or impatient, with strict enforcement of seating times and last orders. Several non-Japanese visitors have also alleged they were treated poorly or refused entry. While the food is highly regarded, Le Coq is best suited for diners who prioritize culinary value over warm service and a smoke-free environment.
- Booking: Reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends, as the small space fills up quickly.
- Getting There: Le Coq is a 3-minute walk from Susukino Station (Namboku and Tozai lines) or a 1-minute walk from Hosui Susukino Station (Toho line).
- Payment: Cash is common. Credit cards (Visa, Master, JCB, AMEX) are only accepted for bills of ¥8,000 or more. Electronic money and QR code payments are not accepted.
- Charges: A seat charge of ¥400 per person applies.
- Seating: Seating is at the counter only. There are no private rooms.
- Smoking: Smoking is permitted throughout the restaurant.
- Parking: No parking is available.
