津田修吾Why is Sapporo known as a paradise for Japanese cuisine?
The answer lies in Hokkaido’s rich natural bounty.
Fresh seafood such as crab and scallops, seasonal vegetables,
and traditional flavors preserved in Sapporo’s restaurants.
From the world-famous Sapporo miso ramen to jingisukan barbecue,the variety is unmatched.
In this article, we introduce the best restaurants in Sapporo
along with key dining areas for travelers.
Reading this before your trip will help you enjoy
a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Popular Restaurant Areas in Sapporo That Everyone Wants to Visit
Sapporo is the heart of Hokkaido and offers a wide variety of dining experiences.
Whether you are looking for ramen, sushi, or a traditional sapporo japanese restaurant, there are many restaurants in Sapporo that can meet your expectations.
Travelers often wonder which area is best to explore first.
The three main districts—Sapporo Station, Odori Park, and Susukino—are known for their convenience and diverse food options.
By choosing carefully, you can enjoy some of the most memorable meals at the best restaurants in Sapporo, Hokkaido, while sightseeing and shopping nearby.
Easily Accessible Shops Near Sapporo Station
Sapporo Station is one of the busiest transport hubs in northern Japan, directly connected to the airport train and bus routes.
Because of this, many visitors start their search for restaurants in Sapporo here.
The area is filled with ramen shops, including places that serve the iconic miso-based Hokkaido Sapporo ramen.
There are also several well-regarded restaurants where you can try seasonal seafood, tempura, or kaiseki cuisine in a relaxed setting.
English menus are available in some places, which is helpful for international travelers.
With so many hotels close to the station, this area is especially convenient for families and short-stay guests looking for easily accessible restaurants in Sapporo.
Lunch and Dinner Options Near Odori Park
Located in the city center, Odori Park is surrounded by cultural landmarks and seasonal events, making it an attractive dining area.
Visitors can find everything from casual ramen to refined Sapporo Japanese restaurants offering multi-course meals with fresh seafood.
During festivals such as the Sapporo Snow Festival, temporary food stalls allow tourists to enjoy Hokkaido flavors in a lively atmosphere.
At lunchtime, restaurants around Odori Park often provide affordable set menus, while evenings are popular for stylish dining spaces with creative Japanese dishes.
For those looking to capture memorable photos, this area is a great place to discover restaurants in Sapporo that balance quality food with appealing presentation.
Late-Night Restaurants in Susukino
Susukino is Sapporo’s nightlife district and one of the most famous entertainment areas in Japan. Here, visitors can explore a wide range of Sapporo Japanese restaurants, from ramen alleys and izakayas to luxury sushi and crab restaurants.
The area is also home to the nostalgic Sapporo Ramen Alley, where visitors can taste authentic ramen in a retro atmosphere. For those seeking something more traditional, several restaurants and izakayas stay open until late, perfect for enjoying grilled lamb, seafood, or seasonal dishes.
Susukino offers something for every traveler—whether you want a quick bowl of ramen or a fine dining experience, making it one of the best areas to discover Sapporo’s diverse food culture.
From ramen and Genghis Khan BBQ to sushi and crab, there are countless options for enjoying authentic Hokkaido cuisine. Here, we’ll introduce some must-try local specialties, categorized by cuisine.
Popular Hokkaido Sapporo Ramen Shops
When it comes to Sapporo, “Hokkaido Sapporo Ramen” is the star.
Rich miso ramen and butter corn ramen are especially popular among tourists. Among the many restaurants in Sapporo, ramen is often called the soul food of the city.
Sumire Sapporo Main Store
Sumire is one of the most famous ramen restaurants in Sapporo, beloved for its rich miso broth and perfectly textured noodles.
It is highly recommended for first-time visitors who want to experience the essence of Sapporo ramen culture.
| Item | Information |
|---|---|
| Specialty | Rich miso ramen, one of the pioneers of Sapporo ramen |
| Access | 10 min walk from Nakajima Koen Station |
| Hours | 11:00–21:00 |
| Official site | Sumire Sapporo Main Store – Ramen Restaurant |
Ichiryuan
Ichiryuan offers a healthier take on ramen among sapporo japanese restaurants, focusing on organic, locally sourced ingredients.
Their “Genki Ramen” is both nourishing and flavorful, making it a favorite for tourists and locals alike. Its central location near Sapporo Station makes it easy to visit.
| Item | Information |
|---|---|
| Specialty | Organic ingredients, unique “Genki Ramen” |
| Access | 5 min walk from Sapporo Station |
| Hours | 11:30–15:00, 17:00–21:00 |
| Official site | Ramen Ichiryūen |
Experience the Essence of Hokkaido With Genghis Khan BBQ
Genghis Khan BBQ, made with lamb, is one of Hokkaido’s most iconic food traditions.
Many Sapporo Japanese restaurants serve this dish, loved by both locals and tourists.
Daruma Main Store
Daruma Main Store is one of the most iconic restaurants in Sapporo, famous for tender lamb grilled over charcoal.
Its long history and lively Susukino atmosphere make it a must-visit spot for authentic Genghis Khan BBQ.
| Item | Information |
|---|---|
| Specialty | Charcoal-grilled lamb Genghis Khan |
| Access | 5 min walk from Susukino Station |
| Hours | 17:00–23:00 |
| Official website | Sapporo Genghis Khan Daruma Main Store |
Sapporo Beer Garden
Sapporo Beer Garden combines freshly brewed Sapporo beer with hearty lamb BBQ in a historic red-brick brewery.
It’s perfect for groups and families who want to enjoy both history and flavor at one of the most famous Sapporo Japanese restaurant experiences.
| Item | Information |
|---|---|
| Specialty | All-you-can-eat Genghis Khan BBQ with authentic Sapporo beer |
| Access | 7 min walk from Higashi Kuyakusho-mae Station |
| Hours | 11:30–22:00 |
| Official website | Sapporo Beer Garden |
The Best Sushi and Seafood in Sapporo
Sushi and seafood in Sapporo are highly praised worldwide for their freshness and craftsmanship.
For many tourists, these restaurants represent the true best experience in Sapporo Hokkaido.
Sushi Tanabe
Sushi Tanabe is a Michelin-starred sapporo japanese restaurant, known for combining Edo-style craftsmanship with the freshest Hokkaido seafood.
It’s an excellent choice for visitors seeking elegance and authenticity among the top restaurants in Sapporo.
| Item | Information |
|---|---|
| Specialty | Michelin-starred sushi using premium seasonal fish |
| Access | 8 min walk from Susukino Station |
| Hours | 17:00–22:00 |
| Website | Sushi Tanabe |
Nijo Market
Nijo Market offers one of the most vibrant seafood experiences in Sapporo, with crab, oysters, and seafood bowls served fresh daily.
The lively atmosphere makes it a must-visit for anyone wanting to taste Hokkaido’s marine delicacies while exploring restaurants in Sapporo.
| Item | Information |
|---|---|
| Specialty | Fresh seafood bowls, crab, and oysters |
| Access | 10 min walk from Odori Station |
| Hours | 7:00–18:00 |
| Website | Sapporo Nijo Market |
Enjoy Sapporo’s Local Crab Restaurants and Traditional Japanese Food
Sapporo is also famous for crab cuisine. Taraba crab and snow crab full-course meals are often the highlight of a trip.
At refined Sapporo Japanese restaurant venues, you can also enjoy kaiseki dining in a calm setting.
Kani Honke Sapporo Main Store
Kani Honke Sapporo Main Store is one of the most iconic restaurants in Sapporo, specializing in luxurious crab cuisine.
With beautifully presented kaiseki-style meals, guests can enjoy Hokkaido’s finest snow crab and king crab in a refined atmosphere.
Its central location makes it a convenient and memorable stop for tourists seeking authentic Sapporo Japanese restaurant experiences.
| Item | Information |
|---|---|
| Specialty | Traditional crab kaiseki dishes |
| Access | 5 min walk from Susukino Station |
| Hours | 11:30–22:00 |
| Official site | Sapporo Kani Honke |
Japanese Cuisine Maruyama Kawanaka
Located in Sapporo’s quiet Maruyama district, Japanese Cuisine Maruyama Kawanaka offers an authentic kaiseki dining experience that highlights the best of Hokkaido’s seasons.
Guests can enjoy beautifully crafted multi-course meals featuring local seafood, mountain vegetables, and premium wagyu beef in a serene, modern Japanese setting.
Perfect for special occasions, business dinners, or a memorable night during your Sapporo trip.
| Item | Information |
|---|---|
| Specialty | Seasonal Hokkaido ingredients in elegant kaiseki courses |
| Access | 5 min walk from Maruyama Koen Station (Sapporo Subway) |
| Hours | 17:00–22:00 (last seating 20:00) Closed Sundays & holidays |
| Official site | Japanese Cuisine Maruyama Kawanaka |
How to Choose Restaurants in Sapporo With Memorable Experiences
When traveling in Hokkaido, choosing the right restaurant can greatly shape your journey.
Whether you are looking for a refined Sapporo Japanese restaurant, Halal-friendly dining, or a lively local izakaya, the city offers countless ways to enjoy authentic flavors.
This section introduces three special experiences that international visitors should not miss when planning where to dine in Sapporo.
Experience Michelin-Starred Restaurants in Sapporo
Sapporo is home to several Michelin-starred venues where you can enjoy the artistry of Japanese cuisine.
Many Sapporo Japanese restaurants included in the Michelin Guide highlight seasonal Hokkaido ingredients, from delicate kaiseki courses to premium sushi crafted at intimate counters.
Why Michelin-Starred Dining Matters
Booking a spot at one of Sapporo’s Michelin-starred Japanese restaurants offers more than food. it delivers a full sensory experience, including thoughtful presentation and Chef explanations. Select restaurants even provide English-speaking staff and sake pairings.
If you’d like to deepen your understanding of Japanese hospitality culture, check out our blog article.
Finding Halal-Friendly Restaurants in Sapporo
With more Muslim travelers visiting Hokkaido, the number of Halal-friendly restaurants in Sapporo has increased steadily.
From soup curry to grilled lamb, several establishments now provide menus that follow Halal guidelines.
Halal-Friendly Japanese Flavors
Some shops even offer Halal versions of Hokkaido Sapporo ramen, using chicken or seafood broth instead of pork.
This allows Muslim visitors to enjoy authentic Japanese flavors without worry.
The Japan Tourism Agency reports that dietary diversity is becoming an important factor in attracting international guests. You can explore Halal dining guides on sites like Japan National Tourism Organization.
Language Support for Tourists
Most Halal-friendly Sapporo Japanese restaurants provide English menus and staff assistance, creating a safe and comfortable dining environment.
For many international visitors, knowing that their cultural needs are respected adds significant value to their stay in Sapporo.
Enjoy Local Favorite Izakaya-Style Restaurants in Sapporo
For travelers who want to experience local culture, izakayas are essential. These casual pubs represent the heart of nightlife and are among the most authentic restaurants in Sapporo.
What to Expect at an Izakaya
Menus often include fresh seafood, grilled dishes, and specialties such as jingisukan (grilled lamb) and zangi (Hokkaido-style fried chicken).
Dining at an izakaya provides a chance to taste local favorites at affordable prices while enjoying a lively atmosphere.
Cultural Connection
Many izakayas offer photo menus or basic English support, making it easier for tourists to order.
Sharing drinks and conversations with locals gives travelers a deeper cultural experience than visiting only the best restaurants in Sapporo, Hokkaido.
How to Make the Most of Restaurants in Sapporo
Sapporo is one of the most popular cities in Hokkaido for food lovers.
When exploring restaurants in Sapporo, knowing how to avoid long waits, where to find English-friendly services, and how to use reviews wisely will make your dining experience much more enjoyable.
Whether you are searching for a restaurant near Sapporo Station or planning to visit a local ramen shop in Susukino, a little preparation can help you fully enjoy the city’s diverse food culture.
If you also want to learn more about Japanese dining etiquette and cultural tips, you can check out our travel blog for more insights.
Making Reservations and Avoiding Crowds
Finding a table at popular restaurants in Sapporo can sometimes be challenging.
Especially during weekends, holidays, or seasonal events, crowds are inevitable.
That’s why understanding the right timing and making reservations ahead of time are essential for a smooth dining experience.
Choosing the Right Time to Dine
Restaurants in Sapporo often get crowded during peak dining hours (6–8 pm for dinner, 12–1 pm for lunch). To avoid long queues, plan for early dinners around 5 pm or late-night meals after 8:30 pm.
For lunch, arriving before 11:30 am or after 1:30 pm is usually more comfortable.
Using Online Reservation Services
Many restaurants in Sapporo now accept online bookings via platforms such as Tabelog or Ikkyu.com. This is especially convenient if you want to try a popular sapporo japanese restaurant, enjoy sushi, or secure a table during busy periods.
We at MOTENASI JAPAN can also arrange restaurant reservations tailored to your preferences.
English-Friendly Menus and Services for Visitors
For many tourists, language can be one of the main barriers to enjoying local food. Fortunately, more restaurants in Sapporo are introducing comprehensive services that make dining easier for international travelers.
Many ramen shops, sushi bars, and higher-end venues now provide:
- English menus and picture menus with bilingual descriptions
- English or Chinese-speaking staff
- Free Wi-Fi access
- Multilingual ordering tablets
- Mobile payment options
Areas such as Susukino and Odori Park are home to many English-friendly izakaya and ramen shops that cater to tourists. These services allow visitors to order confidently, understand ingredients, and enjoy meals without communication barriers.
If you’d like to discover more about cultural experiences in Japan beyond dining, you can explore our travel blog.
Unforgettable Dining Experiences in Sapporo
Dining in Sapporo creates vibrant memories for your journey. From a steaming bowl of rich Hokkaido Sapporo ramen to charcoal-grilled jingisukan, fresh sushi and seasonal dishes at refined Sapporo Japanese restaurants, the variety is sure to impress every visitor.
For special occasions, Michelin-starred venues await, while halal-friendly restaurants are also increasing, ensuring everyone can enjoy meals with peace of mind. In travel, dining is not just nourishment—it is a meaningful way to connect with the traditions and people of a destination.
If you would like personalized guidance to make the most of your time in Sapporo, contact us. We provide expert insights into Japanese food and culture, helping you craft a truly memorable experience tailored to your journey.
We are working day and night to spread Japan’s unique hospitality culture to people around the world. Please feel free to contact us for any inquiries regarding the reception and hospitality of guests visiting Japan.
