Tabelog ratingMugata Senmon Ten Sawadee (ムーガタ専門店 サワディー) is a rare find in Sapporo: a restaurant dedicated entirely to mu gata, the communal Thai dish that combines a grill and a hotpot. The centrepiece is a domed metal grill for searing slices of Hokkaido pork; as the meat cooks, its juices run down into a surrounding trough, enriching a seafood and chicken broth that simmers below. The welcoming owners demonstrate the process, ensuring even first-timers get the full experience.
Guests consistently praise this interactive cooking style and the resulting broth, which grows more complex and flavourful throughout the meal. The two authentic dipping sauces—a sweet chili and a spicy, sour nam chim—are frequently highlighted as essential to the experience. For many visitors from Thailand and across Asia, the authentic flavours make it a comforting taste of home, leading to many repeat visits.
A few minor points appear in reviews. Some note that the meat or seafood can look frozen upon arrival, though most agree this doesn't affect the final taste. On busy nights, certain à la carte items may sell out. As the cooking is done at the table, be prepared for your clothes to pick up the smell of the grill.
Reviewers report a typical dinner spend of around ¥4,000–¥4,999 per person. The mu gata set has recently been priced between ¥2,900 and ¥3,080 per person. Sample bills include one for ¥12,265 for three people and another around ¥13,000 for two. Most diners find it offers good value for the generous portions, engaging format, and attentive service.
- Reservations: Booking is highly recommended, as the small restaurant is often full and may close early if ingredients sell out.
- Location: Find it on the 4th floor of the Joyful Shukou Koji building in the Susukino area. It's a 1-minute walk from Toyosui Susukino Station (Exit 7) or a 4-minute walk from Susukino Station (Exit 3).
- Service: The owners are known for their hospitality and will happily demonstrate how to cook the mu gata. English, Thai, and Chinese are spoken.
- Payment: Credit cards (VISA, Master, JCB, AMEX) and PayPay are accepted. Electronic money is not accepted.
- Seating: The restaurant has 18 seats, including counter seats and tables.
- Smoking: There is a designated area for heated tobacco products only. Note that the dining room can become smoky from the table-top grills.
- Parking: No dedicated parking is available, but paid coin parking can be found nearby.
