Famous for its picturesque canals, Otaru is a popular tourist destination where most shops on the famous Sakaimachi Street(堺町本通り) close by 5 PM. For dinner, you’ll find more options around Otaru Station or along Sushi Street.
Otaru is also renowned as a Sushi town, offering some of the best seafood experiences in Japan. In the 1930s, young sushi chefs from across Japan flocked to Otaru, attracted by its fresh ingredients, and began opening sushi restaurants. Today, the city boasts over 120 sushi restaurants, thanks to its proximity to rich fishing grounds that ensure high-quality sushi. Additionally, Otaru is famous for its soba, with Michelin-rated soba shops where you can enjoy handmade buckwheat noodles that reflect the region’s culinary traditions. For those who prefer something different, try Zangi, Hokkaido’s version of karaage, featuring marinated and deep-fried chicken that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. These diverse dishes make Otaru a delightful destination for those seeking authentic Japanese flavors.
- Specialty Dishes
- Sushi
- Zangi(Local Fried Chicken)
[Dinner Restaurants]Otaru-小樽 - Google マイマップ
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1. Masazushi-おたる政寿司
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☆☆☆☆☆ - Google Map
https://maps.app.goo.gl/yyX9a1B3wnYwYf6R8 - Parking MAPCODE
493 661 486*82 - Description
Masazushi, a renowned sushi restaurant in Otaru, offers an exceptional dining experience that showcases the best of Hokkaido’s seafood. Known for its fresh, high-quality ingredients, the restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including seasonal fish, tuna negima, and chawanmushi, all of which are highly praised by visitors. The “Takumi” nigiri set, a highlight of the menu, features expertly crafted sushi with a delicate sweetness that impresses even the most discerning palates. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of Japanese sake, allowing guests to indulge in a luxurious dining experience. The staff are noted for their courteous and attentive service, contributing to the overall pleasant atmosphere. Whether enjoying the sea urchin somen or sampling the variety of fresh seafood, Masazushi provides a memorable culinary journey. Despite its popularity, the restaurant maintains a welcoming ambiance, with both locals and tourists appreciating the authentic flavors and meticulous preparation. A visit to Masazushi is a must for anyone exploring Otaru, offering a taste of the region’s finest sushi in a refined and relaxed setting.
2. Nishizuk-に志づ可
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☆☆☆☆ - Google Map
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Tg7DsrhALwDsG3U98 - Parking MAPCODE
493 780 546*58 - Description
Nishizuka offers a luxurious dining experience with fresh sashimi, intricate set meals, and beautifully crafted sushi that exceeds expectations. Located in the quieter part of Otaru, this hidden gem is known for its high-quality ingredients and elegant presentation. The “Tanoshimi” set, featuring ten pieces of nigiri, a variety of side dishes, and more, provides a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The relaxed atmosphere, combined with the chef’s skillful preparation and thoughtful service, ensures a memorable meal. Whether you choose to indulge in sushi or explore the seasonal delicacies, Nishizuka is an excellent choice for those seeking an authentic Japanese dining experience.
3. Sushidokoro Shun-小樽 寿司処旬
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☆☆☆☆ - Google Map Link
https://maps.app.goo.gl/qQDLLbFCLZHNuUwR7 - Parking MAPCODE
493 661 486*82 - Description
Sushidokoro Shun is a cozy and popular sushi spot in Otaru, perfect for those seeking a high-quality sushi experience with a personal touch. Despite its modest appearance, the restaurant offers an excellent selection of fresh, locally sourced seafood, including specialties like squid somen with sea urchin, and a variety of seasonal nigiri. The chef’s attentive service, such as accommodating diners who need to step out during their meal, adds to the warm and welcoming atmosphere. While the restaurant is small, with limited seating, it’s well worth making a reservation to enjoy the expertly prepared sushi and the inviting ambiance. Whether you’re seated at the counter or a table, you’re sure to have a memorable dining experience at Shun.
4. Yabuhan-藪半
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☆☆☆☆ - Google Map Link
https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZBxqLEFCfsxMbPyFA - Parking MAPCODE
164 719 268*47 - Description
Yabuhan in Otaru is a popular, long-established soba restaurant that attracts both locals and tourists alike. Despite its fame, the wait can be long, especially during peak times, so reservations are recommended. The menu offers a wide variety of soba dishes, from classic seiro soba to seasonal specialties like nishin soba. The soba is made from local flour, offering a fragrant and flavorful experience, complemented by well-prepared tempura and other side dishes. The restaurant’s historic ambiance, housed in a building with deep ties to the area’s fishing history, adds to the charm of dining here. Whether you’re a fan of traditional soba or looking to try something new, Yabuhan offers a memorable culinary experience in a warm, welcoming setting.
5. Naruto head branch-なると本店
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☆☆☆☆ - Google Map Link
https://maps.app.goo.gl/2wiDwfu8JNskXEnA7 - Parking MAPCODE
164 719 717*46 - Description
Naruto’s head branch in Otaru is a well-known establishment, famous for its half-fried chicken and zangi (Japanese-style fried chicken). Despite its popularity, the service is quick, and the portions are generous. The half-fried chicken is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, perfectly seasoned to complement a cold beer. The zangi is similarly delicious, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite. The restaurant’s atmosphere is bustling, often filled with both locals and tourists, so it’s advisable to visit during off-peak hours or make a reservation. While the food is consistently praised, the service can be a bit impersonal due to the high volume of customers. Overall, Naruto offers a quintessential Otaru dining experience, especially for those seeking hearty, flavorful dishes.
6. Edakan-えだかん
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☆☆☆ - Google Map Link
https://maps.app.goo.gl/SnX7rUJSzaYuC8Tw6 - Parking MAPCODE
164 719 745*12 - Description
Edakan in Otaru is a small, cozy eatery known for its seafood dishes, especially the “Ryugu Don,” a seafood bowl named after the nearby Ryugu Shrine. This restaurant is produced by the renowned Ise Sushi, which raises expectations for quality. The menu is limited but focused, offering a selection of sushi and donburi (rice bowls) with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The Ryugu Don, priced reasonably, is a highlight, featuring a vibrant mix of seafood atop well-seasoned rice. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with a strong emphasis on Japanese sake, making it a great spot for both lunch and casual evening dining. The service is generally good, though it can be slow during peak hours due to the small size of the establishment.
7. Sabou Okobachi-茶房おこばち
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☆☆☆ - Google Map Link
https://maps.app.goo.gl/oTdMEzef44B3agfw9 - Parking MAPCODE
No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
Sabou Okobachi is a charming, small café in Otaru, offering a cozy and intimate atmosphere perfect for unwinding after exploring the city. Upon entering, guests remove their shoes and slip into provided slippers, adding to the homey feel of the place. The interior is quaint, with a mix of counter seating and small tables, creating a relaxed setting. The menu is simple, featuring coffee, tea, and traditional Japanese sweets like zenzai (sweet red bean soup with mochi). A highlight is the “Okobachi Coffee,” which includes a second serving kept warm in a thermos, allowing guests to savor their drink at their own pace. The café is run by a friendly older couple, who provide warm, personal service that makes it feel like visiting a friend’s home. With soft background music and a tranquil ambiance, Sabou Okobachi is a hidden gem in Otaru, offering a perfect spot to enjoy a quiet moment with a comforting cup of coffee and a sweet treat.
8. Coffee House CHAFF
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☆☆☆ - Google Map Link
https://maps.app.goo.gl/SqzKvaE8X52VCLLw6 - Parking MAPCODE
No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
Coffee House CHAFF is a charming café located in Otaru, offering a cozy retreat for coffee lovers. The café is known for its extensive selection of coffee beans, including decaffeinated options, which are brewed to perfection, delivering a smooth and aromatic experience. The menu features a variety of coffee blends, such as the popular CHAFF blend, which boasts a rich flavor with minimal acidity, making it a favorite among visitors. The café also serves delicious homemade sweets like gateau au chocolat and pound cake, which pair beautifully with the coffee. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with the aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans filling the air. Despite its small size, the café is a hidden gem, providing a peaceful escape from the bustling streets of Otaru. The staff’s dedication to quality and customer service, combined with the excellent coffee and cozy ambiance, makes Coffee House CHAFF a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the area.