When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
Slurping Turtle
Why Slurping Turtle is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Slurping Turtle offers a vibrant dining experience ideal for meeting up with friends, thanks to its unique blend of traditional Japanese cuisine with innovative twists that delight every palate. Established originally in Chicago and expanding to Ann Arbor and Columbus, this restaurant is celebrated for its homemade ramen noodles, crafted fresh in-house, and its creative sushi rolls and baos. The restaurant's ambiance is modern, clean, and attractive, creating a welcoming environment that complements the delicious food. Guests particularly enjoy the generous portion sizes, making many dishes shareable and perfect for group dining. The menu offers a wide variety of flavors and textures, including standout dishes such as the Red Curry Ramen with coconut-lemongrass broth and the light, fluffy pork bao buns. Slurping Turtle encourages an engaging dining experience emphasizing cultural appreciation, where guests are invited to slurp their noodles as a polite gesture of enjoyment. This unique cultural touch paired with a spirited, friendly atmosphere makes it a great place to gather for memorable meals and lively conversations.
Here's what people think of Slurping Turtle
As of recent, Slurping Turtle holds a 4.5-star rating based on 2082 reviews.
Reviews paint Slurping Turtle as a well-loved destination by many diners, praised for its excellent service, high-quality food, and inviting atmosphere. Positive feedback highlights the restaurant's knowledgeable and friendly servers who offer clear menu explanations and satisfying recommendations. Dishes such as the homemade ramen, fresh mixed greens salad, and pork bao receive frequent mention for their delightful flavors and artistic presentation. Many appreciate the affordable happy hour specials and the accommodating portions that can feed multiple people. On the downside, some reviews mention occasional delays in food preparation, with a few noting that certain dishes, like the fried chicken appetizer, can sometimes be a bit dry. A few reviewers also described the atmosphere as lively and loud, which may not suit diners seeking a quieter environment. Overall, the consensus is that Slurping Turtle effectively balances quality, creativity, and a welcoming vibe, making it a reliable choice for those seeking authentic yet inventive Japanese dining with friends.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Zoie Tuinstra
I've been here a few times with my family now, and I always get their duck fat fried chicken Ramen. It is really rich and filling. My family this time got 2 speciality rolls, which my dad says was the best sushi he's ever had. Personally, I think there are places just as good in Ann Arbor for cheaper. Otherwise, the place is clean and in a good location downtown, staff were nice and gave us recommendations, and the service is pretty good for how busy it usually is.
Rohit Prabhakar
Slurping Turtle in Ann Arbor has a nice vibe with good interior and friendly service, but our experience with the limited vegan options left us a bit underwhelmed. We tried the vegetarian ramen, which was decent but didn’t quite live up to the hype compared to other ramen spots we’ve been to. The fried rice was okay—nothing to write home about. Now, the weirdest part? They actually charged us for a tiny spoonful of sauce. Yep, a spoon of sauce! That’s a first for me and felt a bit like a prank. On top of that, the wait was pretty long, and honestly, it didn’t feel worth the time. If you’re not vegan and want to explore their full menu, it might be worth a shot, but for vegans or vegetarians, the options are limited and not particularly memorable. Would I go back? Probably not for the vegan dishes, but the place does have a nice atmosphere and good service if you’re in the mood for something else.
HarleyDave
A Delightful Culinary Experience at Slurping Turtle During my recent visit to Slurping Turtle in Ann Arbor, I was impressed by the vibrant atmosphere and attentive service. The restaurant offers a modern and inviting setting, perfect for both casual outings and special occasions. The highlight of my meal was undoubtedly the sashimi. The fish was exceptionally fresh, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that showcased the quality of the ingredients. Each piece was artfully presented, reflecting the chef's attention to detail and commitment to authenticity. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, providing excellent recommendations and ensuring a seamless dining experience. Their enthusiasm for the menu was evident and added to the overall enjoyment of the meal. While the sashimi was outstanding, I found some of the other dishes to be good but not exceptional. The ramen, for example, had a flavorful broth, but the noodles were slightly overcooked for my taste. Nevertheless, the variety on the menu offers something for everyone, and the overall quality is commendable. Slurping Turtle delivers a memorable dining experience with its exceptional sashimi, welcoming atmosphere, and attentive service. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking high-quality Japanese cuisine in Ann Arbor.
steve krueger
Best meal in a long time!!! Our server Cathy gave the best suggestions and I’m so glad she recommended the fried red bean cream puff for dessert! Can hardly wait to return!
Michelle Lo
The fried chicken was the best we’ve had in a long time! The ramen soup was also perfectly flavored and the meat portions were generous. Would strongly recommend for ramen lovers!
How to reach Slurping Turtle
None
Website: None
Why Slurping Turtle may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Slurping Turtle with your friends? Slurping Turtle is more than just a restaurant—it’s a vibrant destination that brings people together over delicious food and a lively atmosphere. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, catching up after a long time apart, or simply looking to enjoy a great meal with friends or family, Slurping Turtle provides the perfect setting. Its reputation for high-quality Japanese-inspired cuisine, including its famous ramen bowls and fresh sashimi, creates a shared experience that everyone can indulge in. The combination of a sleek yet welcoming interior and attentive staff makes it easy to relax and enjoy the company of your group. Plus, with a solid 4.5-star rating from over 2,000 reviews, it’s clear that many diners have found Slurping Turtle to be a reliable and enjoyable spot for gatherings. Hosting a meetup here ensures that everyone’s palate is satisfied, whether they crave a hearty bowl of ramen, light sushi, or refreshing cocktails. This blend of excellent food, warm hospitality, and comfortable ambiance makes Slurping Turtle an ideal rally point for groups seeking memorable dining experiences.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at Slurping Turtle? Slurping Turtle excels at offering more than just dining; it creates an interactive experience centered around food enjoyment and socializing. Sharing is an implicit part of the experience here, with menu items like pork baos, sushi rolls, and bento boxes that encourage communal tasting. The atmosphere is lively yet relaxed, providing a perfect backdrop to conversations and laughter among friends or family. During happy hours, guests can explore affordable options such as $5 California rolls and $4 draft beers, making it budget-friendly for groups. Beyond eating, the restaurant also engages diners with its variety of beverages including Japanese sodas, a remarkable sake selection, and creative cocktails served with theatrical flair—like the “Tea Time for the Empress,” poured ceremoniously into delicate cups. Seasonal outdoor seating gives groups the option to enjoy fresh air while dining, adding to the versatility of the space for different occasions. All these elements combined mean your group can bond over great food, drinks, and a dynamic environment that fosters connection.
Why is Slurping Turtle perfect for group meetups? The restaurant’s spacious and thoughtfully designed layout creates ample room for larger parties, ensuring comfort and ease of interaction. Whether your gathering is intimate or consists of a bigger crowd, Slurping Turtle’s layout accommodates with options for bar seating, tables, and cozy patio space, providing flexibility. The attentive staff enhances the group experience by offering consistent, personalized service that makes everyone feel welcome and attended to, reducing the usual stress that can come with larger groups dining out. In addition, the menu’s range of dishes suits varying tastes and dietary preferences, from expertly crafted ramen bowls to fresh sashimi and inventive appetizers that cater to diverse palates. This inclusivity means your group can enjoy a meal together without compromising individual preferences. The quality of each dish, praised repeatedly in reviews, underscores the reliable dining experience your group can expect, making planning a meetup hassle-free and enjoyable.
How does the food menu at Slurping Turtle cater to diverse tastes? Slurping Turtle’s menu offers a well-curated selection of Japanese-inspired dishes designed with both authenticity and modern twists. Ramen bowls featured here come with homemade noodles and rich, flavorful broths complemented by proteins like pork, chicken, or seafood, making them hearty options for main meals. The sushi and sashimi selections are fresh and artfully presented, appealing to traditional Japanese food lovers. Appetizers such as pork baos and tempura vegetables provide lighter options and perfect starters that encourage sharing within the group. Additionally, the menu thoughtfully integrates vegetarian choices and interesting flavor combinations, enhancing the appeal for different dietary preferences. The dessert offerings like tofu cheesecake and Japanese-inspired ice creams add a sweet finish, rounding out the dining experience. This extensive and varied menu ensures everyone in your party, from sushi aficionados to ramen lovers, leaves satisfied.
What beverage options enhance the Slurping Turtle experience? Slurping Turtle pairs its exceptional food with a diverse and thoughtfully curated drink menu. You’ll find a selection of Japanese beverages including imported sodas, which bring authentic flavors though priced a bit higher due to import costs. The wide sake offerings range from traditional to more inventive varieties, complementing the meal perfectly. For those who enjoy cocktails, Slurping Turtle features unique creations such as the "Tea Time for the Empress," a gin-based cocktail served with ceremony, making the drinking experience as special as the food. A variety of beers, including Japanese brands and regional options, cater to different tastes and preferences, perfect for group toasts or casual sips. Non-alcoholic drinks and wine selections also help round out the menu, offering something for everyone and enhancing the overall dining atmosphere. This comprehensive drink list helps transform a simple meal into a fully immersive gastronomic experience.
Why is Slurping Turtle’s service and ambiance ideal for social gatherings? One of Slurping Turtle’s standout features is its consistently praised service team, well-regarded for attentiveness without being intrusive. Staff members strive to ensure each guest’s satisfaction, checking in regularly to address needs, which helps groups feel taken care of seamlessly during their gathering. The ambiance strikes a balance between sleek modern design and comfortable warmth, generating an inviting yet energetic environment. The restaurant's noise level is lively but not overwhelming, fostering an atmosphere where conversation flows naturally, which is crucial for group interactions. With options for indoor and outdoor seating, Slurping Turtle accommodates various moods and weather conditions, lending versatility to your meetup plans. The combination of professional service, stylish yet cozy surroundings, and considerate attention to the guest experience crafts the perfect setting for memorable social occasions.
How can Slurping Turtle accommodate special occasions or celebrations? If your meetup is more than just a casual gathering, Slurping Turtle provides an excellent backdrop for birthdays, reunions, or milestone events. The restaurant's polished presentation and quality fare add a sense of occasion to any celebration. Staff can assist with arranging seating to keep your entire group close, enhancing the sense of intimacy. The menu’s versatility allows for shared plates and group orders, facilitating a communal dining experience that encourages interaction and enjoyment. The distinctive cocktail options and fine sake offerings elevate the celebration, giving your event an extra layer of sophistication and fun. Outdoor patio seating available during warmer months also offers a fresh and festive space for celebrations, striking a memorable note for special get-togethers.
What makes Slurping Turtle a great value for groups? Despite its high-end appeal and carefully crafted menu, Slurping Turtle offers surprisingly accessible prices, especially during happy hours when sushi and drinks come at attractive discounts. The portion sizes, particularly of ramen bowls, are generous enough to sometimes feed two people, helping stretch the value of each order for a group. The quality of ingredients and preparation ensures that each dish is worth the price, reducing concerns about getting your money’s worth when dining as a group. Their attention to service and ambiance provides a premium dining experience without the premium price tag, especially compared to other Japanese restaurants with similar offerings. This balance of value and quality makes Slurping Turtle a smart choice for groups who want an enjoyable, hassle-free outing without overspending.
What is the overall vibe and crowd like at Slurping Turtle? Slurping Turtle attracts a diverse crowd ranging from young professionals and families to longtime friends meeting for a night out. The vibe is lively but approachable, making it easy for groups to feel both energized and comfortable. The modern décor combined with pockets of cozy seating areas accommodates both small chats and larger group celebrations. With excellent music volume that supports conversation rather than drowning it out, guests find the environment conducive to socializing. The crowd tends to be friendly and upbeat, adding to the communal spirit of the establishment. This welcoming energy, coupled with the restaurant’s reputation for quality and service, makes Slurping Turtle a dependable pick for a fun and engaging group meetup.
Why should you choose Slurping Turtle over other Japanese restaurants? Slurping Turtle distinguishes itself through a winning combination of fresh, homemade dishes, attentive service, and a versatile setting that works equally well for casual hangouts and special occasions. Unlike places that focus strictly on sushi or ramen, Slurping Turtle offers an extensive menu that invites exploration and sharing, ideal for groups with varied tastes. Its consistent high ratings and positive customer feedback underscore the reliability and satisfaction guaranteed when you dine here. The curated drink list featuring unique cocktails and authentic Japanese beverages further elevates the experience beyond typical offerings. Additionally, the team’s commitment to hospitality—seen in their balance of friendly attentiveness and respect for guests’ space—creates a welcoming environment. Together, these factors create not just a meal but a memorable gathering spot that your friends and family will appreciate, making Slurping Turtle a standout choice for your next group meetup.