25 best restaurants in Sapporo Hokkaido categorized by cuisine

Here are the best restaurants in Sapporo Hokkaido categorized by cuisine/dishes with information on food costs, how to get there, and dining tips!

Sapporo is renowned for its rich culinary scene, particularly famous for its miso ramen, fresh seafood, and dairy products.

The city’s cuisine reflects Hokkaido’s abundant natural resources, offering a variety of dishes like sushi, crab, and soup curry.

Sapporo’s street food scene, especially in areas like Susukino, is notable for treats such as grilled lamb (jingisukan), takoyaki, and sweet corn.

Restaurant prices in Sapporo can range widely depending on the dining establishment. For casual meals like ramen or curry, prices start around 800 JPY ($7 USD) to 1,200 JPY ($10 USD).

Mid-range restaurants, offering dishes like sushi or kaiseki meals, can range from 2,000 JPY ($18 USD) to 10,000 JPY ($90 USD).

High-end dining, including specialty seafood and steak restaurants, may cost upwards of 10,000 JPY ($90 USD) per person, offering exquisite dishes with premium local ingredients.

Finally, Sapporo does have Michelin star restaurants, highlighting the city’s exceptional culinary standards.

These esteemed establishments range from traditional Japanese kaiseki and sushi to French and contemporary cuisine, showcasing Sapporo’s diverse and high-quality gastronomy that meets the rigorous criteria of the Michelin Guide.

Here are the best restaurants in Sapporo Hokkaido categorized by cuisine/dishes with information on food costs, how to get there, and dining tips!

1. Sapporo Crab Market: best crab restaurant

Sapporo Crab Market is renowned for its exceptional variety of crab dishes, making it a must-visit destination for seafood lovers exploring Sapporo.

This restaurant specializes in showcasing the best of Hokkaido’s crab, prepared in numerous ways to highlight its delicate flavors.

When visiting Sapporo Crab Market, it’s essential to try the Kani Sukiyaki (crab hot pot), priced at approximately 5,000 JPY (about $45 USD), and the Kani Sashimi (raw crab), which might cost around 3,000 JPY (roughly $27 USD).

The Kani Misoshiru (crab miso soup) is another delicacy, available for about 1,200 JPY ($11 USD), offering a rich taste of local cuisine.

To ensure a memorable experience at one of the best restaurants in Sapporo, reserve a table in advance, especially during the crab season, to avoid long waits.

Opting for the counter seating can also provide an intimate view of the chefs at work, crafting your dishes with precision and care.

2. Oga: best Japanese restaurant in Sapporo

Oga stands out as the pinnacle of traditional Japanese dining in Sapporo, offering an exquisite menu highlighting Hokkaido’s seasonal ingredients.

The restaurant takes pride in its ability to blend classic Japanese techniques with local flavors, creating dishes that are both innovative and deeply rooted in tradition.

For an unforgettable dining experience, consider ordering the Seasonal Kaiseki set, which varies in price but generally starts around 10,000 JPY ($90 USD), or try the Hokkaido Wagyu Beef, which could cost approximately 8,000 JPY ($72 USD).

The Sashimi selection, always fresh and expertly prepared, is another must-try, typically priced at around 5,000 JPY ($45 USD).

As one of the best restaurants in Sapporo, Oga offers a unique travel tip: ask for the chef’s recommended pairings of sake or local wines with your meal to enhance the flavors of each dish.

3. Sushi Miyakawa: best sushi restaurant in Sapporo

Sushi Miyakawa is celebrated for its extraordinary sushi, crafted from the freshest ingredients and offering a sublime taste of the ocean’s bounty.

This Michelin-starred restaurant is a testament to the art of sushi, with every piece reflecting the chef’s meticulous attention to detail and passion for quality.

Signature offerings include the Omakase course, priced around 20,000 JPY ($180 USD), and individual nigiri selections, ranging from 500 JPY ($4.50 USD) per piece.

The seasonal sashimi platter is another highlight, with prices starting at 3,000 JPY ($27 USD), showcasing the best fish and seafood of the season.

To fully enjoy one of the best sushi restaurants in Sapporo, booking well in advance is advisable, as spots fill up quickly due to its prestigious reputation.

For a more immersive experience, request a seat at the sushi bar to watch the chefs in action, a privilege that offers insight into the precision and artistry behind each dish.

4. Himeshara: best seafood restaurant

Himeshara is a gem among Sapporo’s seafood restaurants, specializing in dishes that bring out the natural flavors of the sea with a creative twist.

The menu is a celebration of Hokkaido’s rich marine harvest, prepared with techniques that enhance the ingredients’ freshness and taste.

Order the Seafood Platter, an extravagant display of the day’s catch, priced at around 6,000 JPY ($54 USD), or the Grilled Hokkaido Scallops, available for 2,500 JPY ($22.50 USD).

The restaurant’s signature Sea Urchin Pasta is another must-try, offering a unique blend of Italian and Japanese flavors for 4,000 JPY ($36 USD).

To visit one of the best restaurants in Sapporo and enjoy Himeshara to the fullest, consider going for lunch when the restaurant is less crowded, providing a more relaxed dining experience.

5. Kitamaeya Yusen: best suppon restaurant (soft-shelled turtle)

Kitamaeya Yusen is the go-to spot in Sapporo for those seeking the unique culinary experience of soft-shelled turtle, or suppon, known for its health benefits and exquisite taste.

The restaurant prides itself on traditional preparations that bring out the turtle’s rich flavors and tender textures.

The Suppon Nabe (turtle hot pot) is a highlight, with a price point of around 15,000 JPY ($135 USD), while the Suppon Sashimi, a rare delicacy, might cost about 10,000 JPY ($90 USD).

For a lighter option, the Turtle Soup is available for 5,000 JPY ($45 USD), offering a deeply flavorful and nourishing broth.

When planning a visit to one of the best restaurants in Sapporo, it’s a good idea to call ahead and confirm availability, as suppon dishes are highly sought after and may require advance preparation.

6. Mieda: best fugu restaurant (blowfish)

Mieda specializes in fugu (blowfish), offering a dining experience that is both exotic and exhilarating.

Known for its potentially lethal properties if not prepared correctly, fugu is a delicacy that Mieda prepares with expert precision, ensuring both safety and flavor.

For the adventurous diner, the Fugu Sashimi (Tessa) is a must-try, thinly sliced to perfection, and priced at approximately 8,000 JPY ($72 USD).

The Fugu Hot Pot (Tecchiri), a comforting and flavorful option, comes at about 10,000 JPY ($90 USD).

For those looking for something different, the Fugu Karaage (deep-fried blowfish) is available for around 5,000 JPY ($45 USD), offering a crunchy and delightful taste.

Visiting one of the best restaurants in Sapporo like Mieda requires a bit of bravery given its specialty, but rest assured, the restaurant boasts a flawless safety record.

7. Gotsubo Oyster Bar: best oyster restaurant in Sapporo

At Gotsubo Oyster Bar, the focus is on serving the freshest oysters sourced from the cold waters of Hokkaido. This casual spot is perfect for seafood enthusiasts looking to enjoy oysters in their purest form, whether raw, steamed, or grilled.

The Raw Oyster Platter, featuring a selection of the day’s best, can be enjoyed for approximately 2,000 JPY ($18 USD) for six pieces.

The Grilled Oysters, with a hint of smoke and a touch of butter, are a steal at about 1,800 JPY ($16 USD) for half a dozen.

For those seeking a unique twist, the Oyster Shot, combining a fresh oyster with a special sauce, is priced at 500 JPY ($4.50 USD) each.

When visiting this highlight among the best restaurants in Sapporo, timing is everything; arriving early ensures the freshest picks and avoids the long lines that can form at this popular spot.

8. Sapporo Unagiya: best unagi restaurant in Sapporo

Sapporo Unagiya is celebrated for its mastery in preparing unagi (eel), offering dishes where the rich, smoky flavors of the eel shine through.

The restaurant prides itself on its meticulous cooking process, which includes grilling the eel to crispy perfection while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

The Unagi Kabayaki, grilled eel served over rice, is a standout dish, priced at about 3,500 JPY ($31.50 USD).

For a lighter option, the Unagi Shirayaki, without the sweet soy-based sauce, offers a purer taste of the eel for around 4,000 JPY ($36 USD).

The Unagi Donburi, a generous portion of eel served on a bed of rice, is another excellent choice, costing approximately 2,800 JPY ($25 USD).

A visit to one of the best restaurants in Sapporo for unagi isn’t complete without trying their homemade unagi sauce, a secret recipe that perfectly complements the eel.

For a more immersive experience, ask to sit at the counter, where you can watch the chefs skillfully prepare your dish.

9. Iki Unagi: best dojo restaurant (loach)

Iki Unagi stands out for its specialization in dojo (loach), a traditional Japanese delicacy that is both nutritious and flavorful.

The restaurant’s commitment to freshness and traditional cooking methods ensures a memorable dining experience with dishes that highlight the delicate taste of loach.

The Dojo Nabe, a hot pot filled with tender loach and vegetables, is a must-try, priced at around 2,500 JPY ($22.50 USD).

The Dojo Jiru, a soup with loach and miso, offers a comforting warmth for about 1,800 JPY ($16 USD). For a crispy alternative, the Dojo Karaage (deep-fried loach) is available for 2,000 JPY ($18 USD), offering a delightful crunch.

As one of the best restaurants in Sapporo for loach, diners are encouraged to try sake pairing, as the restaurant offers a selection of local sakes that complement the flavors of dojo beautifully.

Booking in advance is recommended, especially if you’re interested in experiencing a traditional tatami seating arrangement for an authentic Japanese dining experience.

10. Tonkatsu Aoki Sapporo: best tonkatsu restaurant in Sapporo

Tonkatsu Aoki Sapporo is a culinary gem that specializes in tonkatsu, offering a golden, crispy breaded pork cutlet that is tender and juicy on the inside.

This restaurant is celebrated for its commitment to quality, using only select cuts of pork and a unique breadcrumb coating that ensures a perfect crunch with every bite.

The Tonkatsu Set, served with rice, miso soup, and pickles, is a popular choice, priced at around 2,000 JPY ($18 USD). For those seeking a lighter option, the Loin Cutlet Set is slightly less fatty and costs about 1,800 JPY ($16 USD).

Alternatively, the Miso Katsu, a tonkatsu served with a rich miso sauce, offers a unique twist for 2,200 JPY ($20 USD).

As one of the best restaurants in Sapporo for tonkatsu, try to visit during off-peak hours to avoid long waits. The restaurant is renowned and can get crowded.

Additionally, asking for a side of their homemade tonkatsu sauce will enhance your meal with a tangy depth of flavor that complements the crispy cutlet beautifully.

11. Sapporo Zangi Hompo: best boneless deep-fried chicken

Sapporo Zangi Hompo is the go-to place for zangi, Hokkaido’s unique take on boneless deep-fried chicken, known for its juicy interior and flavorful, crispy exterior.

The restaurant takes pride in its secret marinade and batter recipe, which gives the zangi its distinctive taste and texture.

The Classic Zangi Set, offering a generous serving of zangi with cabbage and rice, is a steal at 1,500 JPY ($13.50 USD).

For those who like a little spice, the Spicy Zangi Set kicks up the heat for 1,600 JPY ($14.40 USD). Additionally, the Zangi Bento, perfect for on-the-go dining, is priced at 1,200 JPY ($10.80 USD).

When seeking out the best restaurants in Sapporo for a quick and satisfying meal, Zangi Hompo is a must-visit. Pair your zangi with a local Sapporo beer for a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.

12. Kushikatsu Senri: best kushi-age restaurant (fried skewers)

Kushikatsu Senri is celebrated for its kushi-age, offering a wide variety of fried skewers that are crispy on the outside and succulent on the inside.

This restaurant meticulously selects its ingredients, from vegetables to seafood and meat, ensuring each skewer is a burst of flavor.

The Assorted Skewer Set, featuring a mix of meat, vegetable, and seafood skewers, is highly recommended, priced at 2,500 JPY ($22.50 USD).

The Premium Beef Skewer, a must-try for meat lovers, costs about 500 JPY ($4.50 USD) per piece. For a unique twist, try the Cheese-stuffed Pepper Skewer, delightfully gooey and spicy for just 300 JPY ($2.70 USD) per piece.

Kushikatsu Senri, one of the best restaurants in Sapporo for kushi-age, advises guests to dip their skewers in the house-special dipping sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

Remember, double-dipping is frowned upon, so be sure to enjoy each skewer with a single dip!

13. Higebozu: best yakitori restaurant in Sapporo

Yakitori Higebozu is a haven for yakitori enthusiasts, specializing in skewered and grilled chicken that captures the essence of traditional Japanese barbecue.

With a focus on quality and freshness, the restaurant offers a variety of chicken cuts, from the succulent thigh to the crispy skin, all grilled to perfection over charcoal.

The Yakitori Set, a selection of chef’s choice skewers, offers great value at 2,000 JPY ($18 USD). The Chicken Meatball (Tsukune) Skewers, juicy and flavorful, are not to be missed, priced at 250 JPY ($2.25 USD) each.

For those looking to try something different, the Chicken Heart Skewers provide a rich, unique taste for 200 JPY ($1.80 USD) each.

At one of the best restaurants in Sapporo for yakitori, Higebozu offers a cozy, intimate dining experience. For an enhanced visit, try to secure counter seats to watch the skilled chefs at work.

14. Shouta: best Kushiyaki restaurant in Sapporo

Shouta stands out in Sapporo for its exceptional kushiyaki, offering a variety of grilled skewers that extend beyond chicken to include vegetables, seafood, and other meats.

The restaurant prides itself on its innovative approach to skewers, blending traditional techniques with modern flavors.

The Assorted Kushiyaki Set, featuring a chef-selected variety of skewers, is a fantastic introduction at 3,000 JPY ($27 USD). For seafood lovers, the Scallop Skewers are a highlight, priced at 400 JPY ($3.60 USD) each.

The Beef Tongue Skewer, tender and richly flavored, is another must-try at 350 JPY ($3.15 USD) each.

Shouta, known as one of the best restaurants in Sapporo for kushiyaki, suggests visiting with a group to share and sample a wider range of skewers.

Additionally, asking the staff for seasonal skewer recommendations can lead to discovering unique flavors and ingredients that highlight the best of Hokkaido’s produce.

15. Torimasu: best chicken wings

Torimasu is celebrated for its delectable chicken wings, a must-try for visitors seeking the comfort of perfectly fried, flavorful wings in Sapporo.

The restaurant has perfected the art of chicken wings, offering them in a variety of flavors that cater to every palate.

The Classic Salted Wings are a staple, priced at 600 JPY ($5.40 USD) for a set of six. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, the Spicy Wings set is available for 650 JPY ($5.85 USD).

Alternatively, the Honey Glazed Wings offer a sweet and savory experience for 700 JPY ($6.30 USD) per set.

As one of the best restaurants in Sapporo for chicken wings, Torimasu is often bustling with locals and tourists alike. Consider going during off-peak hours or late evening to avoid the long wait times and to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.

16. Shinohei: best Shabu Shabu restaurant in Sapporo

Shinohei specializes in shabu shabu, a Japanese hotpot dish that involves swishing thin slices of meat in boiling broth. This dish is both a delicious meal and an engaging dining experience.

This restaurant is known for its high-quality ingredients and the variety of broths and dipping sauces it offers. The Premium Wagyu Beef Shabu Shabu set is highly recommended, priced at 10,000 JPY ($90 USD).

For seafood lovers, the Seafood Shabu Shabu set includes a selection of fresh, local seafood for 8,000 JPY ($72 USD).

Vegetarians are not left out, with a Vegetable Shabu Shabu set available for 5,000 JPY ($45 USD).

Shinohei, considered one of the best restaurants in Sapporo for shabu shabu, offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere. To enhance your dining experience, ask for a seat near the windows for a beautiful view of the city while you dine.

17. Kikouan: best soba restaurant in Sapporo

Kikouan is a celebrated soba noodle restaurant in Sapporo, specializing in handcrafted soba made from buckwheat flour.

The restaurant is acclaimed for its dedication to tradition and the quality of its noodles, which are served both cold and hot to suit different tastes.

The Tempura Soba, combining crispy tempura with their signature noodles, is a must-try for 1,500 JPY ($13.50 USD). The Duck Soba, served in a rich broth with tender slices of duck, is another highlight for 1,800 JPY ($16.20 USD).

For something lighter, the Cold Zaru Soba is perfect, especially in summer, for 1,200 JPY ($10.80 USD).

Kikouan, one of the best restaurants in Sapporo for soba, offers a quaint and traditional Japanese dining experience.

Ask the staff about the day’s special soba dishes, which often feature seasonal ingredients not listed on the regular menu.

18. Masuda: best udon restaurant in Sapporo

Masuda Udon stands out in Sapporo for its exceptionally crafted udon noodles, offering a comforting bowl of thick, chewy noodles in a variety of flavorful broths.

Masuda Udon is one of the best restaurants in Sapporo for udon enthusiasts. The restaurant prides itself on its handmade noodles and the depth of flavor in its dashi, which is evident in every dish.

The Curry Udon is a popular choice, rich and hearty, priced at 1,000 JPY ($9 USD). The Tempura Udon, topped with crispy seafood and vegetable tempura, offers a delightful textural contrast for 1,200 JPY ($10.80 USD).

For a simpler option, the Kake Udon, served in a classic broth, is a steal at 800 JPY ($7.20 USD).

Visit during lunchtime to take advantage of the set meal deals, which offer great value and a taste of different menu items.

19. Oni Wa Soto Fuku Wa Uchi: best curry-style udon restaurant in Sapporo

Oni Wa Soto Fuku Wa Uchi is renowned for its unique take on udon, serving up a delicious curry-style udon that combines the thick, chewy noodles with a rich, spicy curry sauce.

This fusion creates a dish that is both comforting and bursting with flavor. The Signature Curry Udon is a must-try, available for 1,200 JPY ($10.80 USD).

For those looking for something extra, the Curry Udon with Fried Chicken adds a crispy element for 1,400 JPY ($12.60 USD).

Vegetarians can enjoy the Curry Udon with Seasonal Vegetables for 1,300 JPY ($11.70 USD). As one of the best restaurants in Sapporo for curry-style udon, Oni Wa Soto Fuku Wa Uchi offers a cozy, casual dining experience.

Pair your curry udon with a side of pickled vegetables to cut through the richness of the curry and enhance the overall flavor profile!

20. Araki: best tempura restaurant in Sapporo

Araki Tempura Restaurant is the pinnacle of tempura dining in Sapporo, specializing in lightly battered and perfectly fried seafood and vegetables.

Araki, known as one of the best restaurants in Sapporo for tempura, provides an elegant and serene dining atmosphere.

The restaurant’s attention to detail and the quality of its ingredients set its tempura apart, offering diners crispy, delicate morsels that are never greasy.

The Tempura Set, featuring an assortment of seasonal vegetables and seafood, is an excellent introduction to their craft, priced at 2,500 JPY ($22.50 USD).

For a more luxurious experience, the Seafood Tempura Set, focusing on premium catches, is available for 3,000 JPY ($27 USD).

The Vegetable Tempura Set, highlighting the freshest produce, offers a lighter option for 2,000 JPY ($18 USD).

For those interested in the art of tempura, requesting counter seats allows you to watch the chefs at work, turning simple ingredients into exquisite dishes.

21. Fugetsu: best okonomiyaki restaurant in Sapporo

Fugetsu is a beloved spot for okonomiyaki in Sapporo, offering a wide range of this savory Japanese pancake filled with various ingredients to cater to every taste.

The restaurant is renowned for its interactive dining experience, allowing you to watch as your okonomiyaki is expertly prepared on a griddle right in front of you.

For a classic choice, the Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki, with noodles, cabbage, pork, and a special sauce, is a hit at 1,500 JPY ($13.50 USD).

Seafood lovers should try the Seafood Okonomiyaki, brimming with fresh squid and shrimp, for 1,800 JPY ($16.20 USD).

For something different, the Cheese Okonomiyaki adds a gooey delight for 1,600 JPY ($14.40 USD).

As one of the best restaurants in Sapporo for okonomiyaki, Fugetsu offers a cozy, laid-back atmosphere perfect for casual dining. Ask the chef for recommended ingredient combinations or seasonal specials to enjoy a unique okonomiyaki experience.

22. Tako King Susukino: best takoyaki in Sapporo

Tako King Susukino specializes in takoyaki, the iconic Japanese snack of battered octopus balls, and stands out as a must-visit for foodies in Sapporo.

This popular stall is known for its golden, crispy takoyaki with a soft, flavorful interior, perfectly capturing the essence of this beloved street food.

The Classic Takoyaki, served with takoyaki sauce and mayonnaise, is a steal at 500 JPY ($4.50 USD) for six pieces. For a spicy twist, the Spicy Takoyaki heats things up for 550 JPY ($4.95 USD).

The Cheese Takoyaki, with molten cheese inside, offers a creamy alternative for 600 JPY ($5.40 USD). Tako King Susukino, one of the best restaurants in Sapporo for takoyaki, is often surrounded by locals and tourists alike.

Try to go during off-peak times to avoid the long queues and enjoy your takoyaki freshly made without the wait.

23. Kunimi Steak: best steakhouse in Sapporo

Kunimi Steak is revered as the pinnacle of steak dining in Sapporo, specializing in high-quality cuts of beef that are grilled to perfection.

As one of the best restaurants in Sapporo for steak, Kunimi Steak provides an upscale dining experience that is both memorable and indulgent.

The restaurant’s intimate setting and attention to detail in preparation make it a favorite among meat lovers.

The Wagyu Beef Steak, renowned for its marbling and flavor, is offered at 10,000 JPY ($90 USD). For a more international flavor, the Australian Beef Steak provides a hearty option for 7,500 JPY ($67.50 USD).

The Hokkaido Sirloin Steak, showcasing local beef, is a must-try for 8,000 JPY ($72 USD).

For an enhanced visit, consider pairing your steak with a selection from their extensive wine list, curated to complement the flavors of the beef.

24. Steak & Wine Ishizaki Main shop: best teppanyaki restaurant

Steak & Wine Ishizaki Main Shop is celebrated for its teppanyaki, where skilled chefs prepare your meal on an iron griddle right before your eyes.

Ishizaki, among the best restaurants in Sapporo for teppanyaki, boasts an elegant atmosphere ideal for special occasions.

This restaurant combines the theatrical flair of teppanyaki cooking with the culinary sophistication of high-end steak and seafood dishes.

The Teppanyaki Set with Hokkaido Beef is a highlight, showcasing the region’s finest beef for 12,000 JPY ($108 USD). The Seafood Teppanyaki Set, featuring fresh local seafood, offers a lighter but equally exquisite option for 9,000 JPY ($81 USD).

For a comprehensive experience, the Chef’s Special Course includes steak, seafood, and seasonal vegetables for 15,000 JPY ($135 USD).

Request a seat at the counter to get a front-row view of the chefs’ impressive culinary skills and engage with them for a more interactive dining experience.

24. Ippei: best oden restaurant in Sapporo

Ippei offers a cozy retreat where guests can indulge in oden, a comforting Japanese hot pot dish featuring assorted ingredients simmered in a flavorful broth.

Recognized as one of the best restaurants in Sapporo for oden, Ippei provides a warm, inviting space perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.

Known for its homey atmosphere and diverse selection of oden ingredients, this spot is a favorite among locals seeking warmth during Sapporo’s cold winters.

The Daikon (radish), a classic oden item, is tender and absorbs the broth beautifully for 200 JPY ($1.80 USD).

The Tamago (egg), soaked in the savory broth, is a steal at 150 JPY ($1.35 USD). For something more unique, try the Konnyaku (yam cake) for 150 JPY ($1.35 USD).

Pair your oden with a cup of sake selected by the staff to enhance the flavors of the broth and ingredients.

25. Menya Saimi: best ramen restaurant in Sapporo

Menya Saimi is a celebrated ramen shop in Sapporo, famous for its miso ramen that beautifully represents the region’s preferred ramen style.

The shop’s dedication to quality, from its rich, flavorful broth to its perfectly cooked noodles and fresh toppings, makes it a standout destination for ramen enthusiasts.

The Signature Miso Ramen, with its balanced blend of spices and hearty broth, is a must-try for 850 JPY ($7.65 USD).

The Spicy Miso Ramen adds a kick for those looking for heat, priced at 900 JPY ($8.10 USD). For a unique twist, the Butter Corn Miso Ramen combines sweetness and richness for 950 JPY ($8.55 USD).

As one of the best restaurants in Sapporo for ramen, Menya Saimi often has a queue, but the wait is well worth it.

Arrive just before opening or during late afternoon hours to beat the crowds and enjoy your ramen with minimal wait time.