Even in freezing cold, they eat it too: Hokkaido’s go-to late-night snack is “beer + sundae”
▲ Hokkaido’s most authentic late-night snack is “beer with a sundae.”
Reported and photographed by reporter Tsai Wenjun / Hokkaido, Japan
When Japanese late-night snacks come to mind, most people picture sitting at a counter in a dimly lit izakaya, ordering a beer with skewered grilled or fried food.But the most authentic late-night snack in Hokkaido is “beer with a sundae.”In Sapporo’s famous Susukino district, there's a “sundae specialty shop” that stays open until the early hours. Not only does it get busier the later it gets, but its sweet flavors and beautifully plated sundaes have made it a hit with local female customers just one year after opening.
▲ A sundae shop open until 3 a.m.: “Recipe of Happiness Sweets 0°C” is loved by locals.
The sundae specialty shop “Recipe of Happiness Sweets 0°C” is located in the bustling downtown area of Sapporo. Although the store doesn’t close until the wee hours, it’s always packed with customers waiting in line. On some nights, as many as 20–30 people queue up simultaneously—its popularity is undeniable. Store manager Lin Dengzhigong explained that the owner originally ran an Italian restaurant in Hokkaido but noticed many customers specifically ordering sundaes. Sensing a business opportunity, he opened this sundae specialty shop.
▲ The interior of “Recipe of Happiness Sweets 0°C,” a popular sundae spot.
Why do Hokkaido residents pair beer with sundaes for a late-night snack? Manager Lin Dengzhigong pointed out that this habit gradually became popular about 10 years ago when some izakayas began offering sundaes to go with beer. Coupled with Hokkaido’s naturally high ice cream consumption, the combination eventually caught on.
The “Recipe of Happiness Sweets 0°C” shop offers 10 different sundae flavors, each over 30 cm tall and decorated with various fruits. Manager Lin said that to give customers a surreal, almost storybook-like experience while enjoying dessert, each flavor is named after fairy tale themes—offering a uniquely whimsical take on ice cream.
▲ The store manager’s top three recommended flavors: Today’s Sundae (left), Rich Pistachio – Oak Treasure Chest (center), and Seasonal Fruits – Ballroom Sundae (right).
The shop’s top three recommended flavors are: Seasonal Fruits – Ballroom Sundae, Rich Pistachio – Oak Treasure Chest, and Today’s Sundae. Among them, the Ballroom Sundae stands out with its extravagant design that dazzles the eye, while the Rich Pistachio flavor impresses with its rich texture.
▲ The store’s signature Ballroom Sundae features a vibrant, show-stopping presentation.
The Ballroom Sundae changes with the seasons, using different fruits depending on the time of year. For example, the summer version uses six types of fruit—strawberries, grapefruits, grapes, blueberries, kiwis, and cantaloupes—paired with milk, blueberry ice cream, and whipped cream. A cascade of colorful fruits fans out dramatically along the edge of the cup, resembling the unfurling of a ballroom fan, offering both a visual treat and a cool, refreshing sensation.
The ice cream itself is crafted with care. Manager Lin explained that all ice creams in the shop are developed by the head chef and specially custom-ordered from suppliers, guaranteeing flavors and textures you won’t find anywhere else. Tasting the Ballroom Sundae, the rich milk ice pairs perfectly with the tangy, slushy-like blueberry ice cream. Digging deeper, you’ll find thick, non-greasy whipped cream that makes it hard to stop scooping.
▲ The Ballroom Sundae’s colorful fruit arrangement is truly eye-catching.
The Rich Pistachio – Oak Treasure Chest Sundae impresses with its unique texture. The bright green ice cream may initially trick you into thinking it’s matcha, but one bite reveals a deep, rich pistachio flavor—the nuttiness spreads as the ice cream melts in your mouth.
Paired with banana slices and cookies, it’s irresistible.
▲ The ever-changing Today’s Sundae offers a surprise in every scoop.
The Today’s Sundae changes daily based on available ingredients, making it a fun surprise—just like a mystery box. On the day of our visit, the Today’s Sundae featured bright yellow mango ice cream adorned with kiwi slices shaped like flower petals. The mango was rich and sweet, balanced nicely by the tartness of the kiwi, which could also be dipped in for a refreshing contrast, instantly beating the summer heat.
In addition to ice cream, the shop also offers a variety of drinks. Manager Lin especially recommends pairing your treat with a glass of red or white wine or brandy—they complement the ice cream perfectly. If you’re visiting Hokkaido and craving an authentic late-night snack, you definitely have to try “beer + sundae.”
▲ The interior of “Recipe of Happiness Sweets 0°C” also has a cozy downstairs seating area.
About “Recipe of Happiness Sweets 0°C”
Address: Big Silver Bldg. 1, 4-chome Nishi 3-jou, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
Business Hours: 11:30 AM to 3:00 AM
Access: Exit 3 of Toho Line’s Toyohira-Susukino Station, turn left, walk about 5–10 minutes toward Susukino
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