Is Sapporo Soup Curry Picante near Sapporo Station? What are its operating hours and break times?

Picante is located near Hokkaido University. Unlike SAMA, which I visited previously, it operates without a break time.

What should I consider when adjusting the spice level and choosing a menu item at Picante?

My friend chose the Picante Special, and I ordered the tender baked lamb with garlic, topped with cheese rice. Since 'Picante' means 'spicy,' if you prefer a spicier taste, it's recommended to choose a higher spice level than 'mild'.

When I ordered cheese-topped rice at Picante, what was the condition of the cheese?

The cheese-topped rice I ordered came with the cheese unmelted. Although the curry was hot enough to melt it naturally when eaten together, I found this a bit disappointing.

Picante Sapporo Soup Curry Review 2026: A Hokkaido…

Picante

Sapporo's Must-Try Soup Curry

Soup curry is undoubtedly one of Hokkaido's most celebrated dishes. On my last trip to the region, I had a list of three highly-rated spots near Sapporo Station I wanted to try. I only managed to visit one of them that time. This year, in 2026, I made it a point to check out another!

This time, it was Picante, located conveniently near Hokkaido University. Unlike SAMA, another popular soup curry joint I'd visited previously, Picante doesn't observe a break time, which meant we could walk right in – a definite plus!

The interior was welcoming and thoughtfully designed. There were cozy bar seats perfect for solo diners, and tables were subtly separated with partitions, offering a nice sense of privacy. Though not a massive space, the seating felt well-arranged and comfortable.

As I was poring over the Japanese menu, a kind staff member noticed my struggle and promptly brought over an English version – a lifesaver!

Just like many other Japanese soup curry establishments, the ordering process is straightforward: first, choose your soup base, then your main curry, select your desired spice level, and finally, add any extra toppings. My friend opted for the signature Picante Special, while I went with the tender baked lamb with garlic. For our rice, we both added a cheese topping. I chose the 'mild' spice level, but looking back, I wish I'd gone for something spicier. I later learned that 'Picante' actually means 'spicy' or 'pungent' in Spanish, implying they specialize in heat! A little too late for my order, unfortunately.

My friend's dish arrived first. That intricate topping you see on top? It's shredded burdock root, adding a unique texture and flavor.

Soon after, my chosen dish arrived, but there was one small hiccup: the cheese on my rice wasn't melted. It was just placed on top. Of course, the curry was piping hot, so it melted naturally as I ate, but it still felt like an oversight.

Considering Picante is a well-known Sapporo soup curry spot, I wondered if they usually serve the cheese melted and just forgot this time. But I decided not to dwell on it and just enjoyed my meal! The curry was surprisingly hot, so letting it cool just a bit before digging in was a good idea. The bowl itself had a raised section, designed to keep some toppings out of the soup, and that's where my tender baked lamb was nestled. True to its name, the lamb was incredibly soft and succulent.

As expected from a top Sapporo restaurant, the overall flavor profile was clean and well-balanced. Each vegetable in the curry tasted fresh and delicious on its own.