Niseko Guide

Best places to eat in Niseko – Food Galore in Japan

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Fresh seafood, dairy products, Japanese beers and the Genghis Khan – a grilled meat dish – are some of the highlights of Hokkaido cuisine. There are plenty of dining venues to savour these items in Niseko – from food carts, to eateries and Michelin-starred fine diners. The town’s wide-ranging dining scene also features fusion restaurants, French or Italian gourmet diners, cafes and après-ski bars. So if you don’t know where or what to start with, just have a look at our Niseko dining guide below!

Japanese food - sushi boat

Where to eat in Niseko Town

Located southwards of the Niseko United resorts, Niseko Town isn’t at the heart of the action at Niseko Village, but a town where many long term residents call home. You’ll find affordable accommodation and dining options here, but it’s best to rent a car as it’s harder to get out to the main ski areas. 

Sushi Hanayoshi – Come here for some of the freshest plates of sushi and sashimi you’ll find in Niseko. The venue also offers top-notch service and an extensive sake menu. We recommend that you make reservations during the peak ski season. 65 Fujimi, Niseko, p. +81 136-44-3444. Open Tue – Sun, 11am – 1.30pm & 5pm – 9.30pm. Closed on Mon. 

Niseko Brewing Restaurant – Niseko Brewing Restaurant has a cosy, inviting ambience that makes you feel right at home the moment you step in. It’s open all year round, and a great place to stop by for local craft beers (including a pumpkin ale), izakaya-style dishes and gorgeous views. 4-11 Hondori, Niseko-cho, p. +81 136-55-5664. Open 6pm – 10pm daily. 

White Birch Cafe – White Birch Cafe makes a great all-day hangout; it serves coffee, pastries and homemade cafe fare during the day, while the dinner menu lists a good wine selection, along with sukiyaki and shabu-shabu. 106-3 Hondori, Niseko-cho, p. +81 136-55-6507. Open Mon 9am – 4pm, Tue 9am – 4pm & 6pm – 9pm. Closed on Sun.

Uwamuki – Uwamuki is a good option if you’re looking for a casual, relaxed dining venue that offers numerous options. There’s Japanese, Western and Chinese food to choose from, plus a wide selection of drinks, such as beer, wine, sake and cocktails. 142-5 Chuodori, Niseko, p. +81 136-55-8386. Open 5pm – 11pm daily. 

Kagra – Part restaurant and part fish shop, Kagra serves up some of the freshest seafood dishes in town (Kagra sources its seafood directly from the fishmongers). You’ll find crowd favourites on the menu, such as the mackerel set meal and sashimi rice bowl. Free-flow drinks and daily specials are available during dinner. 51-5 Soga, Niseko-cho, p. +81 136-55-6332. Open 11am – 2.30pm & 5pm – 9.30pm daily.

sashimi bowl - where to eat in Niseko

Where to eat in Hirafu

You’ll be right in the heart of the action in Hirafu; it’s the biggest village in Niseko, with diverse dining and accommodation options. From food carts, to speakeasies and fine diners, Hirafu offers something for every vacationer. Here’s a list of over 10 excellent restaurants for you to choose from:

Bar Gyu + – This speakeasy venue that checks off all the right boxes: a hidden, tucked-away entrance, creative cocktails, great ambience, jazzy tunes. The entrance to the bar is a tiny vintage fridge door – but step in, and you’ll find an intimate, wood-clad setting. Large glass windows flank the walls, so you can watch the snow falling gently outside while you enjoy a drink or two. Highlights include the cheese platter, wasabi-flavoured cocktail and wide-ranging whiskey selection. 167-21 Yamada, Kutchan, p. +81 136-23-1432. Open 5pm – 12am daily. 

La villa LUPICIA Restaurant – LUPICIA Restaurant dishes out scrumptious Euro-Japanese fare in a rustic, wood-dominated setting, complete with live jazz performances and top-notch service. Be sure to round out your meal with their wonderful tea selection. And before you go, stop by the deli to purchase your favourite teas and produce, like the sauces, charcuterie and freshly baked bread. 58-5 Kabayama, Kutchan-cho, p. +81 136-21-7880. Open 11.30am – 2pm & 6pm – 11pm daily.

Niseko Loft Club – Niseko Loft Club is a meat lover’s paradise. You’ll choose from a variety of meats and local vegetables, and cook these items over a grill at your table. Be sure to try the restaurant’s specialty – the Genghis Khan, a Hokkaido grilled dish of mutton or venison. 397-5 Soga, Niseko-cho, p. +81 136-44-2883. Open Wed – Mon 5pm – 11pm. Closed on Tue. 

japanese beef

Niseko Ramen Kazahana – Niseko Ramen Kazahana is widely-raved after; you’ll hear diners telling you that this is where you’ll find the best ramen in town. The 35-seater venue small and cosy, and it’s best to arrive early in the evening as it does fill up quickly. The signature dish is the Potato Ramen – miso ramen topped with a creamy, fluffy layer of Potato foam. But the sides are incredibly good too, so don’t miss out on ordering the gyoza, croquette and grilled scallops. 179-36 Yamada, Kutchan, p. +81 136-23-3444. Open 12pm – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 8.30pm daily. 

Mūsu – The beautifully appointed Mūsu operates as a French bistro during the day. After dusk, it transforms into an après-ski bar dishing out creative tapas and cocktails. The wasabi margarita and negroni with sake deserve a special mention. 190-13 Yamada, Kutchan, p. +81 136-21-7002. Open 7.30am – 12am daily. 

The Barn by ODIN – The Barn boasts a striking, instagram-worthy architecture that is a modern twist on the traditional shape and structure of rural countryside barns in Hokkaido. Tuck into French bistro fare on the main floor, before heading up to the mezzanine bar for a nightcap. 170−323 Yamada, Kutchan, p. +81 136-23-0888. Open 5pm – 12am daily.

Niseko Taproom – Located in the heart of the Grand Hirafu village, Niseko Taproom offers a casual, relaxed setting and a wide range of craft beers (local and international brews are available on tap and in bottles). The menu also features a selection of snacks and light meals, including salads, Japanese beef stew and rotisserie chicken. 190-13 Yamada Odin Place 3F, Kutchan-cho, p. +81 50-5316-9488. Open 2pm – 11pm daily.

buddha bar NISEKO+1048 – buddha bar is fun and casual – the perfect hangout where you can let your hair down, and soak up the good vibes. There are graffiti (you’ll get a pen to write on the walls), dogs, crispy gyozas, ice-cold beers and Hokkaido gin cocktails. 170-164 Yamada, Kutchan, p. +81 136-25-4279. Open Mon – Sat 3pm – 1.30am, Sun 3pm – 1.45am. 

Sushi Wakatake – At Sushi Wakatake, the focus is all about fresh, seasonal produce – so you’ll enjoy nothing but the freshest seafood and local dishes. Sashimi and nigiri sushi aside, there are also course menus and a la carte options to choose from. The highlight here is the chef’s course dinner, where dishes are prepared right in front of you and accompanied by paired sake or wine. Take in sweeping vistas of Mt. Yotei as you wine and dine. 190-13 Yamada Odin Place 3F, Kutchan-cho, p. +81 136-55-5517. Open Fri – Wed 5.30pm – 8.30pm. 

Roketto – Diners familiar with mod-Sin (modern Singaporean) cuisine will enjoy Roketto’s offerings, which includes comfort food like laksa udon, braised pork belly on rice and bak kut teh ramen. After dusk, the venue transforms into Roketto Bar, where scrumptious bites and impeccable cocktails are served. The Maples, 204-27 Aza Yamada, Kutchan-Cho, p. +65 9880 2269.

cocktails

Kumo Restaurant – With an international team of word-class chefs helming the kitchen, it’s unsurprising that Kumo serves up an unforgettable dining experience (complete with breathtaking views of Mt. Yotei). The lunch menu lists crowd favourites like Crispy Chicken with Yuzu Sauce and Spicy Miso Ramen, while the dinner menu features mainly izakaya-style dishes like Grilled Local Duck Breast and Grilled Taraba Crab. 204-7 Aza, Yamada, Kutchan, p. +81 136-55-6421. Open 11.30am – 11pm daily.

Izakaya Koharuya – Izakaya Koharuya is unassuming and tucked-away, and draws in a crowd of diners with its authentic, local fare. Must-try items include the buttered scallop, homemade gyozas, cheese tempura and sour plum sake. Pro-tip: the venue is small and seats just 20, so reservations are recommended. 163-113 Yamada, Kutchan, p. +81 136-25-4009. Open 5pm – 12am daily. 

Bion Niseko – Bion Niseko dishes out Hokkaido-inspired, wood-fired Italian fare in a warm and inviting setting. Featured on the menu are items like the matcha green tea flavoured tiramisu, Hokkaido wagyu beef garnished with freshly grated wasabi and assorted seafood plate. For an immersive dining experience, take a seat at the counter tables by the open kitchen; you’ll get to watch and interact with Chef Matsuoka, and chat with him about the local food. 83-120 Yamada, Kutchan, p. +81 136-55-8739. Open 5pm – 11pm daily.

Where to eat in Niseko Village

Located in between Grand Hirafu and Annupui, Niseko Village is not quite as developed as Hirafu – yet it still has all the amenities you need, including restaurants, bars and onsens. Your options aren’t limited though, as Hirafu is just a 10-minute shuttle bus ride away. 

Tomioka White – Located within the The Green Leaf Niseko Village, Tomioka White is a lobby lounge complete with plush sofas and lounge chairs, modern furnishings and a fireplace. It’s the perfect spot for relaxing after a day out on the slopes, to enjoy quality time with friends and family over coffee, light nibbles or cocktails. The Green Leaf Niseko Village, Higashiyama-onsen, Niseko-cho, p. +81 136-44-3311. Open 10am – 11pm daily. 

Niseko Milk Kobo – Niseko Milk Kobo is a must-visit for vacationers with a sweet tooth. Come here for the amazing cheese tarts, cheese cakes, soft serve, hot chocolate, choux pastry…the list goes on. Yum! 888-1 Soga, Niseko, p. +81 136-44-3734. Open 9.30am – 5.30pm daily. 

Yang Shu Ten – Yang Shu Ten serves up a wide-ranging array of local dishes, including sushi, tempura and teppanyaki dishes. These are available as set meals or a la carte options. Aza Soga 919-4, Niseko, p. +81 136-44-1160. Open 11am – 3pm, 5pm – 10pm daily.

authentic japanese food

The Mexican Mule Restaurant and CantinaCrispy empanadas, pulled pork burritos, enchiladas, churros – The Mexican Mule is our go-to spot when we want a change-up from Japanese food. There’s a free pick up service from Moiwa, Annupuri and Niseko Village – but if you feel like lounging in your villa, the restaurant offers food delivery service to these areas too. 35-2 Higashiyama, Niseko, p. +81 136-55-5944. Open 4.30pm – 11pm daily. 

Mandriano – Spacious, airy and with expansive windows offering uninterrupted ski slope views, Mandriano is a great spot for a relaxed meal. The restaurant serves up some of the best pizzas we’ve had in Niseko – and at affordable prices too. This family-friendly venue boasts a large playroom, as well as an open field that kids can run about in. 888-1 Soga, Niseko-cho, p. +81 136-44-3735. Open Thu – Tue 11am – 5.30pm daily. 

Niseko Sanroku Parlor – Set in a shipping container along a side lane, Niseko Sanroku Parlor boasts a rustic, well-appointed interior, with huge windows that look out to the scenic surroundings. The sandwiches are absolutely delicious, and are made with freshly baked bread and quality ingredients. You’ll find vegetarian items – such as the grilled vegetable or falafel sandwich – alongside meat options like the Japanese-style croque monsieur and Ezo deer burger. 19-19 Higashiyama, Niseko-cho, p. +81 136-55-8918. Open Thu – Tue 11am – 9pm. Closed on Wed.

Upashi Seta Izakaya – Upashi Seta doesn’t offer an extensive selection of dishes. But that doesn’t matter, since anything you order off the menu – from the fried chicken with chili mayo, to the okonomiyaki and sashimi – is bound to be a palate pleaser. Mouthwatering food aside, the venue also scores high on ambience and service. 19-1 Higashiyama Snowdog Village, Niseko-cho, p. +81 70-4444-3814.

okonomiyaki

Where to eat in Kutchan Town

Kutchan is the closest city to Hirafu. You’ll find a good variety of restaurants and bars, as well as large supermarkets. Food and accommodations prices here are typically lower compared to Hirafu and other resort areas in Niseko. 

An Dining – Only the freshest local produce are used at An Dining, to create beautifully presented contemporary Japanese fare. It’s an all-day dining venue, with a la carte options and set dinners. If budget isn’t an issue, go for the set dinner, which features a range of meat and seafood dishes along with dessert, or the degustation meal with drink pairing. 183-43 Yamada 1F Ki Niseko Hotel, Kutchan-cho, p. +81 136-22-5151. 

Kamimura – Michelin-starred Kamimura has garnered rave reviews from travellers, locals and food critics alike with its French-Japanese fare. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner during the summer, and is only open for dinner during the winter. The highlight is the chef’s degustation menu, featuring innovative dishes prepared with fresh Hokkaido produce and an excellent wine selection. 190-4 Yamada 1F Shiki Niseko, Kutchan-cho, p. +81 136-21-2288. Open Mon – Sat 6pm – 12am. Closed on Sun. 

Torimatsu – Torimatsu is a family-run venue that serves up yakitori in a casual, relaxed setting. We’ve been told that the beef tongue, chicken wings, chicken skewer with egg yolk and fried cheese balls are spectacular. Skewers aside, Torimatsu also offers a decent sake selection, sides, sashimi and rice dishes. Reservations are recommended. 1 Kita 3-jo Nishi, Kutchan-cho, p. +81 136-23-2893. Open Mon – Sat 5.30pm – 10.30pm. 

Namichanchi Affordable prices, delicious izakaya dishes and a friendly ambience keep a constant stream of diners coming to Namichanchi. Dishes are served tapas-style, so we recommend coming with a group. The menu is wide-ranging, featuring items like sashimi, steaks, salads, grilled seafood and more. 2-12, Kita 2 Nishi 1, Kutchan Town, p. +81 136-21-2258. Open Mon – Sat 5.30pm – 11pm. Closed on Sun.

where to eat in niseko - grilled squid

Green Saso – Located along a small stream, with gorgeous views and cosy interiors, Green Saso is the perfect place to unwind quietly. The delicious-sounding menu lists a range of beverages and desserts, including green tea, matcha latte, parfaits, ice cream sundaes and Oyaki with pumpkin cream. 59-35 Aza Kabayama, Kutchan-cho, p. +81 136-55-5934. Open Tue – Sat 12pm – 5.30pm. Closed Mon & Sun. 

Sekka Lab – Sekka Lab is cool and modern; it’s located in a renovated warehouse, boasts stylish, dimly-lit interiors and offers Italian-Japanese fusion fare. Diners can choose between the Omakase set featuring the restaurant’s signature dishes, or order a la carte. We particularly enjoyed the charcuterie board, homemade pasta and beef cheeks. 2-15-2 Minami 1-jo Nishi, Kutchan-cho, p. +81 136-23-1139. Open Mon – Sat 4pm – 11pm. Closed on Sun. 

Nihonbashi – Nihonbashi is ideal for large groups, as it has 20-seater private dining rooms in addition to the main dining area. The menu is wide-ranging, and includes sushi, sashimi, tempura and chirashi bowls. Portions are generous, and dishes are reasonably priced. Reservations are recommended, as the restaurant is widely visited during lunch and dinner. 24-10, Kita 3 Nishi 2, Kutchan Town, p. +81 136-22-2717. Open 11.30am – 1.30pm, 4pm – 8.30pm daily. 

Saika Yakitori – This homely, unassuming izakaya joint is a locals’ favourite. Come by to savour its extensive selection of yakitori and izakaya-style items. Highlights include the agedashi tofu, potato croquette, beef ribs and ume tsukune. Do note that bookings can be a hit-or-miss affair, as we’ve heard that groups that have made bookings in advance were turned down upon arriving. 3 Chome-4-18 Kita 6 Jonishi, Kutchan, p. +81 90-2692-5506. Open Mon – Sat 6pm – 11pm.

Where to eat in Annupuri

Annupuri Resort is the westernmost of the Niseko United resorts. Choices are limited compared to the more popular resort areas in Niseko, but Annupuri’s increasing popularity means that more restaurants are opening up in the vicinity. 

Karabina – Located less than five minutes’ drive from the Niseko Annupuri Ski Resort, Karabina offers a cosy, treehouse-esque setting, a good sake selection and izakaya dishes done well using local ingredients. There’s a fire pit in the middle of the dining area too, so you’ll be kept warm and toasty during your meal. 431-4 Niseko, Niseko-cho, p. +81 136-50-2850. Open 6pm – 11pm daily.

Pizza Del Sole – Pizza Del Sole is a great option for days when you want a break from Japanese food. The toppings are delicious, plus the crust is made just right – chewy, and just slightly crispy along the edges. The diner seats only six, so reservations are a must. 483-1 Niseko, p. +81 136-58-3535. Open Mon, Wed – Sat 11:30am – 3:30pm & 6:30 – 10pm, Tue 11:30am – 2:30pm & 6:30 – 10pm. Closed on Sun.

pizza

Sushi Shin – The only branch restaurant of Michelin three-star recipient Master Chef Miyakawa, Sushi Shin offers a serene and intimate dining experience, top-notch service and exquisite Edomae sushi. 430-25 Niseko, p. +81 136-59-2808. Open 12pm – 2pm, 5.30pm – 10pm daily. 

Kobito – Kobito is a cosy local restaurant with a wide-ranging menu; there’s yakitori, sushi, tempura, ramen, sashimi and donburi items to choose from. 417-1 Yunosato, Rankoshi-cho, p. +81 136-58-3212. Open 12pm – 2pm, 6pm – 12am daily. 

Nabe-Nabe – Digging into a hot pot feels incredibly satisfying after a day on the slopes, and the ones served at Nabe-Nabe definitely tick off all the right boxes. There are a few varieties of set meals, such as the salmon hot pot, wagyu beef hot pot and more. Green tea and a handful of side dishes are included in the set meal. 170-205 Yamada, Kutchan, p. +81 136-55-6471. Open 6pm – 12am daily.    

New Sanko – New Sanko is a great option for a quick lunch or snack during a full day out on the slopes. It’s a food court with numerous choices, with vending machines where diners can place their food orders. It gets particularly busy with skiers during lunch hours, but the processes are efficient so you’ll get your food quickly. 482 Niseko 2f, Niseko-cho, p. +81 136-58-2021. Open 10am – 8.30pm daily.

Rakuichi Soba – Enjoying a meal at Rakuichi Soba is a highly coveted affair; a queue forms outside the restaurant an hour before it opens for lunch, and a booking for the Omakase dinner is typically made months in advance. But if you’re lucky enough to dine here, you’ll find that it’s well worth the wait – the noodles are made fresh on the spot, and all dishes are prepared and presented with care and attention. 431 Niseko, Niseko-cho, p. +81 136-58-3170. 

Niseko A Nabeya – Niseko A Nabeya is just the sort of restaurant you’d want to round out your evening with after spending a day on the slopes – it’s cosy and inviting, with wood-dominated decor and warm lighting. The service and food are excellent too – come and try out the burgers, curry udon and shabu-shabu. 431-2 Niseko Annupuri Trailhead, Niseko-cho, p. +81 136-55-6099. 

Where to eat in Hanazono

Hanazono is the newest of the Niseko United resorts, so you won’t find as many dining venues or amenities in the area. It can be a great option for vacationers looking to be away from the crowds, plus you’re only just a five-minute drive to Kutchan if you wish to experience a more diverse dining and bar scene. 

Somoza – Somoza is located within a kominka – a traditional Japanese home – and nestled away a lush, scenic environment; you’ll feel a sense of serenity the moment you step in. The venue contains a gallery space, shop, tea room, cafe and dining area. You’ll find the cafe and 12-seater on the ground floor; the latter is where diners tuck into a multi-course omakase featuring contemporary Japanese cuisine. Traditional Japanese tea ceremonies are held in the tea room at the loft of the building. 77-1 Chinese Garden, Kutchan-cho, p. +81 136-55-8741.

matcha

Restaurant Asperges Hanazano – Restaurant Asperges Hanazano is a fine diner led by three-star Michelin Chef Nakamichi. Come here for the mouthwatering French fare, faultless service and jaw-dropping views up the ski slopes. For the ultimate treat, book yourself a spot for the degustation meal, which features beautifully presented dishes with wines to match. 328-1 Aza-Iwaobetsu Insinde 1 Niseko Hanazono Resort, Kutchan-cho, p. +81 136-55-5632. Open Fri – Wed 12pm – 4pm, 6pm – 10pm. Closed on Thu. 

Hana 1 Cafe – Hana 1 Cafe is conveniently located right at the base of the Hanazono ski slope (right by lift 1), which makes it a great spot to stop for a coffee or hot chocolate after skiing. There’s also a small selection of light bites, including toasties and steamed buns. 328-1 Iwaobetsu Hanazono No1 Lift, Kutchan-cho, p. +81 80-6060-6236. Open 8am – 4.30pm daily.

Hanazono 308 – Hanazono 308 is a spacious food court-style venue with numerous food options. The most popular dish here is the crab ramen, but you’ll also find a range of local and Western dishes, including pizzas, burgers and rice sets. There’s freshly baked muffins and croissants, plus Lavazza coffee too – so it’s worth stopping by for breakfast. Live jazz performances during lunch time adds to the ambience of the venue. 328-36 Iwaobetsu, Kutchan, p. +81 136-21-3333. Open 8.30am – 5pm daily.

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