Slurping Turtle - Ann Arbor
- Jaclyn Nagel
- Jan 5, 2017
- 2 min read
One of the worst parts about living in Ann Arbor is the brutal polar vortex that persists from December through March. And while an alcohol blanket can help, ramen is the only thing that can truly warm my soul during these dark months. Luckily, Slurping Turtle has both a fantastic cocktail menu and house made noodles, making it the perfect refuge from the cold.
Slurping Turtle’s menu is stacked with both unique options and tradition favorites, from the Duck Fat Fried Chicken to fresh and delicious sushi rolls. Honestly, the hardest part about eating there is deciding which dishes I have to restrict myself to so I don’t explode or end up with a declined credit card. My personal appetizer obsession is with their Pork Belly Bao (pork buns). The Bao are crunchy from the pickle, and sweet from the pillow-like bun; the only thing wrong with them is that they aren’t kosher (sorry, Rabbi). I also like the Roast Chicken Bao and Shrimp Tempura Bao, especially because they are three for $11. And if crispy appetizers are more your style, try the Hamachi Tacos, made with yellowtail and a taro root shell.

Next, we move on to the main event: the ramen. While there are other entrees available, such as their expansive sushi roll options and their stir-fry, if you’re feeling chilly, the ramen is the only way to go. I always get the Miso Tonkotsu with a poached egg, but if you prefer something a little spicier, I would go with the Tan Tan Ramen. Another ramen is the Shoyu Tofu Mushroom, made with rice noodles to make it a prime gluten-free option for all your celiac friends.

When it comes to drinks, the cocktails at the Slurping Turtle are both colorful and strong. My go-to is “Strawberry Fields,” a light, fruity cocktail perfect for starting off your night easy. However, “Turtle Green,” a tequila-based melon margarita is a close second, but should definitely not be ordered lightly; a lot of tequila is packed into that pretty margarita glass. Slurping Turtle also specializes in Chuhai cocktails, a traditional Japanese beverage. It comes in a variety of flavors, including lemon and grapefruit, and make for an exciting change of pace from your typical cocktail order.
Don’t forget to check out their fantastic happy hour from 4-6 p.m. M-F. For specifics, make sure to check out my article “Best Ann Arbor Happy Hours.”
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