Tabelog ratingMotsu no Asadachi (モツの朝立ち) offers a loud, rowdy, and deeply traditional izakaya experience in the heart of Sapporo's Susukino nightlife district. The atmosphere is a key part of its appeal, with an old-town energy, energetic staff, and a theatrical display of jars filled with medicinal liquors like snake and wasp infusions. The main draw, however, is the food, centered on two specialties: a spicy, deeply flavoured offal stew called motsu-nikomi served in a personal pot, and large, meaty kushiyaki skewers grilled to order.
Guests consistently praise the signature motsu-nikomi, often ordering it with an optional egg. The kushiyaki skewers are another highlight, with reviewers singling out the beef (gyusho) and fatty pork (abura) for being unusually generous and perfectly cooked. Other popular dishes include hatsu-sando (heart sandwiches), yakisoba with offal, and grilled avocado, often washed down with Sapporo Classic draft beer. Many international visitors describe a meal here as a highlight of their trip.
The venue's authentic character comes with some trade-offs. It is a compact, smoking-allowed establishment, and non-smokers frequently complain about the smoke and tight seating. It's also extremely popular, with queues at peak times reportedly lasting from 40 to 120 minutes. Some find the motsu pot portion small for the price, though still delicious.
Despite this, most find it offers excellent value. Reviewers in 2024–2026 paid around ¥550–¥650 for the signature motsu-nikomi (with an egg adding about ¥100), and ¥280 per kushiyaki skewer. A full meal for two often costs between ¥6,000 and ¥8,500, though a lighter visit is possible for ¥2,000–¥3,000.
- Getting There: Located in the Kamiya Building, a 5-minute walk from Susukino Station.
- Reservations: Reservations are not accepted. Expect to queue, especially at peak times. Arriving early, near the 3:00 PM opening, is recommended to avoid long waits.
- Payment: Cash only. Credit cards, electronic money, and QR code payments are not accepted.
- Seating: 34 seats, including an 8-seat counter. Seating can be tight, and time limits may be enforced during busy periods.
- Smoking: Smoking is permitted throughout the restaurant.
- Language: The menu is primarily in Japanese, though some photos are available and staff may offer help in basic English.
- Good to Know: Prices on the menu may be listed exclusive of tax.
