Authentic Sapporo-style ramen & craveable Hokkaido-style karaage. A laid-back gem w/ rich broths & unique cold ramen options.
Menkoi Sato was a highly regarded Japanese restaurant in Manhattan's West Village, specializing in Sapporo-style ramen. Known for its authentic flavors and cozy, laid-back atmosphere reminiscent of ramen shops in Japan, it quickly became a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The restaurant was particularly praised for its rich broths, especially the spicy shoyu and tan tan men, and its unique offerings like Abura Soba and cold ramen during summer months. Beyond ramen, their Hokkaido-style fried chicken (karaage) and fried rice also received significant acclaim, often being cited as some of the best in the city.
Menkoi Sato was celebrated for its authentic Sapporo-style ramen, featuring rich broths such as spicy shoyu and tan tan men. It also offered less common dishes like Abura Soba and seasonal cold ramen. The Hokkaido-style fried chicken (karaage) and fried rice were frequently highlighted as exceptional additions to the menu.
"Customers highly recommended the spicy shoyu ramen, tan tan men, Abura Soba, and the seasonal cold ramen. The Hokkaido-style fried chicken (karaage) and fried rice were also frequently praised as must-try items."
Customers overwhelmingly loved Menkoi Sato, praising its authentic ramen and unique dishes like Abura Soba and Hokkaido-style karaage. There was some debate about a decline in quality, but most considered it a top-tier ramen spot.
Important Note
The restaurant has closed.
"This commenter recommended Menkoi Sato, indicating it's a place worth trying."
Positive"This commenter recommended trying Toribro on 52nd street if the user enjoys Menkoi Sato."
Neutral"This commenter confirmed Menkoi Sato's plans to reopen in a few months and agreed that their karaage is incredible, recommending it as one of their top choices for ramen shops that also serve great karaage."
Positive"The author mentioned Menkoi Sato is temporarily closed but hopes to reopen soon. They previously enjoyed their ramen and fried rice, but were particularly impressed by the karaage (Hokkaido-style fried chicken), calling it possibly the best they've ever had."
Positive"This user expressed heartbreak over Menkoi Sato's closure, recalling frequent visits before having their first baby."
Negative"This user noted that the original post was updated to indicate the closure might be temporary."
Neutral"The user is looking for places similar to Menkoi Sato that import ingredients from Japan, as Menkoi Sato has recently closed."
Neutral"This user responded to the argument about costs by stating that rent was the reason Grays Papaya closed and provided a link to another closure attributed to rent."
Neutral"This user expressed extreme dismay and disbelief at the news of Menkoi Sato closing."
Negative"This user estimated Menkoi Sato's rent in Greenwich Village to be between $11,000 and $35,000 per month based on market rates."
Neutral"This user estimated labor costs for a restaurant operating 12 hours daily with 8 employees to exceed $80k/month, suggesting it could be higher than rent."
Neutral"This user estimated that a ramen shop with 3-5 employees would likely have rent as the biggest cost, depending on the shop's size and rent price."
Neutral"This user questioned the cost of labor and food for Grays Papaya in response to the argument about rent."
Neutral"This user questioned the claim that rent is 'by far' the largest expense, emphasizing labor and food costs."
Neutral"This user expressed interest in attending similar promotional events and concern about the owner's departure due to rent, despite their passion for ramen."
Negative"This user recommended Tamashii Blue as a cozy and dark spot for a solo ramen meal."
Positive"This user provided a link to the Japan Society event and shared that the Vice Governor of Hokkaido was a humorous presenter."
Positive"This user found the mention of the Vice Governor of Hokkaido attending a Japan Society event humorous and inquired about the owner's potential return to Japan."
Neutral"This user reported that during a recent visit, they were informed Menkoi Sato hopes to reopen within months, either at the current location or a new one."
Positive"This user spoke with a server at Menkoi Sato who indicated they are negotiating rent and exploring relocation, aiming for a comeback within months."
Positive
