There are days your hunger can only be satisfied by something warm and noodle-y. Beat a path to Susukino Ramen Bar (1504 G St., Arcata; (707) 630-3560; susukinramen.com) for a comforting bowl of noodles in tasty broth. Shoyu (soya based) soothes with tender pieces of pork and golden ajitama egg (marinated in the best way). San (vinegar based) is made for hot and sour lovers, with a tangy kiss and kick if you add extra ginger. Tan tan (spicy sesame and peanut based) brings the chili, while the miso-based soup tempts you with tofu and seaweed. The ordering kiosk gives you choice of full or half order, meat or veggie, add ins and (importantly) heat, so you do not exceed your own personal Scofield limit. Balance out the spice with a side of edamame or pickled cucumber salad washed down with a cold ginger-key lime soda. Savor your ramen under a map of Hokkaido and see if you can locate Susukino (Hint: The entertainment district is in Chūō-ku, Sapporo). Order ahead for pickup if you have no time to contemplate geography.
It is 2 a.m. and you are so empty you echo, but you know where to go. Since 1984 the Chum family has served college students and long-timers around the clock (except Mondays because even the pizza makers need a day off) at the venerable Don’s Donuts, Pizza & Deli (933 H St., Arcata; (707) 822-6465). The little restaurant does a brisk trade by satisfying the cravings of its patrons on three levels: doughnuts, pizza and sandwiches. Whether by the slice or a whole pie, pepperoni or browned-just-right cheese (and everything in between), the first hot bite lets you know you made the right choice. Unless the right choice for you is a chickenbanh mi sandwich with pickled carrots and daikon with the perfect combo of crunch and airy baguette. Whether you go for pizza or a sandwich, the finishing touch awaits behind a glass case. Frosted French twists and apple fritters beckon. Here’s hoping you have enough room in your backpack to keep them from reaching critical squish point on your bike ride home.
This article appears in Humboldt Insider Winter 2026.