Sapporo’s Seafood Paradise! 10 Must-Try Restaurants Recommended by Locals

Introduction: The Appeal of Sapporo’s Seafood

Why Sapporo is Famous for Seafood

There are two main reasons why Sapporo is known for its seafood cuisine. First, as the central city of Hokkaido, Sapporo has access to a wide variety of fresh seafood from all over the region. Hokkaido is blessed with abundant marine products throughout the year, allowing Sapporo to always offer fresh and high-quality seafood. Second, Sapporo is a popular tourist destination, and the competition among restaurants to provide high-quality seafood dishes to attract visitors results in elevated culinary standards.

Seasonal Ingredients and How to Enjoy Them

In Sapporo, you can enjoy seafood dishes made with seasonal ingredients throughout the year. Spring brings scallops and herring, summer offers sea urchin and squid, autumn is for saury and salmon, and winter is known for crab. These ingredients are at their best during their respective seasons, and it is common to enjoy them fresh as sashimi, sushi, or robata-yaki (charcoal-grilled). Sapporo’s seafood cuisine pairs exceptionally well with sake, and many restaurants offer a wide selection of local varieties, making it a perfect match for these delectable dishes.

Criteria for Selecting Recommended Seafood Restaurants

Taste
The most important factor when enjoying seafood in Sapporo is, of course, taste. Sapporo’s seafood dishes are characterized by the freshness and quality of the ingredients. Many restaurants source their seafood directly from local ports, offering menus that highlight the season’s best ingredients. Each establishment serves the day’s finest selections in various forms such as sashimi, sushi, and robata-yaki.

Price
Price is also an important consideration. In Sapporo, you can find a wide range of options, from high-end establishments to casual eateries offering fresh seafood at reasonable prices. Particularly around the Susukino area, many seafood izakayas are known for offering fresh fish at affordable prices. For example, at Donbei Nijo Market, you can enjoy a seafood bowl or a uni (sea urchin) bowl for as little as 500 yen, making it a highly cost-effective choice.

Accessibility
Ease of access is also an essential factor. For tourists, restaurants that are close to the station and easy to find are greatly appreciated. Sapporo’s subway and streetcar systems are convenient, and the Susukino area, in particular, is home to many seafood restaurants within walking distance. Additionally, many popular seafood spots are within walking distance from Sapporo Station and Odori Station, making them easy to visit while sightseeing.

10 Must-Try Seafood Restaurants Recommended by Locals

Here, we introduce 10 highly recommended seafood restaurants in Sapporo, beloved by locals for their delicious offerings of fresh seafood. Be sure to check them out!

Ruku & Uohei

Known for its exceptional value, Ruku & Uohei offers fresh seafood such as sashimi and sushi at reasonable prices. Their seafood bowl, in particular, is a must-try, providing great satisfaction at an affordable price.

Detailed Reviews

Known for its fresh seafood and exceptional value, Ruku & Uohei is popular for its seafood bowls and sashimi. The casual and welcoming atmosphere makes it a favorite among both locals and tourists.

Location and contact
TEL: 011-271-2853 (Reservations available)
Address: West end (Minami 2 Nishi 6, Pastoral Building II, 1F), 6 Tanuki Kouji, Minami 2 Nishi 6, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
Nearest Station: 5-minute walk from Odori Station

Opening Hours
11:30 AM – 11:00 PM

Ditails
Credit Card Payment: Available （VISA、Master、JCB、AMEX、Diners）
English Menu: Yes
Budget: JPY 2000 to 3000
Recommended Menu: Five-piece sashimi assortment JPY 1000
Situation:Family,Group,Lunch,Dinner
Smoking: Entirely non-smoking

You can switch the language at the bottom of the page on the linked site.

Hokkaido Hama Ryori Isokin

Famous for its seasonal seafood dishes, Hokkaido Hama Ryori Isokin offers not only fresh sashimi and grilled fish but also a great selection of sake. The botan shrimp sashimi is especially unforgettable.

Detailed Reviews

This restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes, including the popular “Isokin Special Sashimi Platter” and “Crab Cream Croquettes.” The sashimi platter is a colorful and satisfying experience, while the crispy crab croquettes are truly delightful.

Location and contact
TEL: 050-5571-3500 (Reservations available)
Address: 2F Suzuran Bldg., Minami 4 jo Nishi 4, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Nearest Station: 1-minute walk from Susukino Station

Opening Hours
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday
5:00PM – 11:00PM
Friday, Saturday, and the day before national holidays
5:00PM – 0:00AM
Closed on weekends and holidays

Ditails
Credit Card Payment: Available （VISA、Master、JCB、AMEX、Diners）
English Menu: Yes
Budget: JPY 4000 to 5000
Recommended Menu: Sashimi JPY 700-1000,Hama Chanko Large(For 3-4Person) JPY 2860
Situation:Family,Group,Couples,Dinner
Smoking: Entirely non-smoking

You can switch the language at the bottom of the page on the linked site.

Shihachi Sengyo-ten

Shihachi Sengyo-ten is known for its ultra-fresh seafood. The simple yet carefully prepared dishes include popular seafood bowls and sushi featuring the day’s recommended seafood, providing a truly satisfying experience.

Detailed Reviews

With a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, Shihachi Sengyo-ten is known for its friendly service and fresh seafood dishes at reasonable prices, making it popular among families and tourists alike.

Location and contact
TEL: 011-590-4899(Reservations available)
Address: 1F Raccoon COMICHI, 2-5 Minami2 jo Nishi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Nearest Station: 5-minute walk from Susukino Station

Opening Hours
11:00AM – 3:00PM
4:00PM-11:00PM

Ditails
Credit Card Payment: Available （VISA、Master、JCB、AMEX、Diners）
English Menu: Yes
Budget: JPY 3000 to 4000
Recommended Menu: Hokkaido Uni,Kani,Ikura Don JPY 1990
Situation:Family,Group,Couples,Lunch
Smoking: Entirely non-smoking

You can switch the language at the bottom of the page on the linked site.

Juppo Ebisudai Honten

Conveniently located in the Susukino area, Juppo Ebisudai Honten offers fresh seafood dishes along with a wide variety of sake. Their sushi, crafted with precision by skilled chefs, is a must-try.

Detailed Reviews

Located just a 5-minute walk from Susukino Station, Juppo Ebisudai Honten is ideal for a relaxed dining experience. The quiet and calm interior provides a perfect setting to enjoy their exquisite sushi.

Location and contact
TEL: 011-522-0310(Reservations available)
Address: 1F FOREST BLD, Minami 6 jo Nishi 2, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Nearest Station: 5-minute walk from Susukino Station

Opening Hours
5:00PM – 0:00AM

Ditails
Credit Card Payment: Available （VISA、Master、JCB、AMEX、Diners）
English Menu: Yes
Budget: JPY 4000 to 5000
Recommended Menu: Today’s Sashimi JPY 1078
Situation:Family,Group,Couples,Dinner
Smoking:Smoking

You can switch the language at the bottom of the page on the linked site.

Kaisenya Hakodate Susukino Honten

Boasting fresh seafood directly sourced from Hakodate, Kaisenya Hakodate Susukino Honten is known for its excellent value. The menu includes a variety of options from sashimi to robata-yaki.

Detailed Reviews

Renowned for its great value, this restaurant offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes at reasonable prices. The seafood bowls and grilled herring are particularly well-loved.

Location and contact
TEL: 050-5868-1200(Reservations available)
Address: 1F, 2F, 3F Daiichi Seijusha Building, Minami Nanajo Nishi 3, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
Nearest Station: 4-minute walk from Susukino Station

Opening Hours
5:00PM – 11:00PM

Ditails
Credit Card Payment: Available （VISA、Master、JCB、AMEX、Diners）
English Menu: Yes
Budget: JPY 5000 to 6000
Recommended Menu: Hakodate Seafood Hamayaki (for one person or more) 6 dishes JPY 2300
Situation:Family,Group,Couples,Dinner
Smoking:Non Smoking

You can switch the language at the bottom of the page on the linked site.

Cugurido

Specializing in grilled seafood dishes, Aburi, Kaisen, Shun-Yasai Kaku enhances the flavors of fresh ingredients by grilling them. The combination of seasonal vegetables and seafood is truly exquisite.

Detailed Reviews

The “Seafood Chirashi Bowl” and “Salmon Ruibe Zuke” are recommended here. The beautifully presented chirashi bowl features a variety of fresh seafood, while the ruibe zuke (frozen salmon) is a rich and flavorful local specialty.

Location and contact
TEL: 011-522-0310(Reservations available)
Address: 1F FOREST BLD, Minami 6 jo Nishi 2, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Nearest Station: 5-minute walk from Susukino Station

Opening Hours
11:00AM – 11:30PM
Lunch Time
11:00AM-2:30PM

Ditails
Credit Card Payment: Available （VISA、Master、JCB、AMEX、Diners）
English Menu: Yes
Budget: JPY 6000 to 7000
Recommended Menu: Lunch Course JPY 2400-,Dinner Course JPY 6000-
Situation:Group,Couples,Dinner
Smoking:Non Smoking

You can switch the language at the bottom of the page on the linked site.

Kaisen Shokudo Kita no Gourmet-tei

Loved by both tourists and locals, Kaisen Shokudo Kita no Gourmet-tei is known for offering fresh seafood at reasonable prices. Their seafood bowls are especially popular.

Detailed Reviews

Popular for its generous portions and variety, the “Special Seafood Bowl” is a favorite among tourists. The menu also includes a wide range of grilled and simmered dishes.

Opening Hours
7:00AM – 2:30PM

As for directions to ‘Kita no Gourmet Tei,’ they offer a free shuttle service. Since it can be a bit tricky to visit by regular means, we’ve detailed how to make a reservation for the free shuttle in the article below.

You can switch the language at the bottom of the page on the linked site.

Sushi and Robata-yaki Shiki Hanamaru Kita-guchi

Sushi and Robata-yaki Shiki Hanamaru Kita-guchi is the perfect spot for those looking to enjoy both sushi and robata-yaki. In addition to fresh sushi, their robata-grilled seafood is also excellent.

Detailed Reviews

Known for its seasonal nigiri sushi set, this restaurant offers fresh sushi at an affordable price. The counter seating allows guests to watch the chefs skillfully prepare the sushi.

Location and contact
TEL: 011-726-0870(Reservations available)
Address: NCO Sapporo B1F, 1-2-6, Kita 7 Nishi, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Nearest Station: 5-minute walk from Sapporo Station

Opening Hours
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu
11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Fri, the day before national holidays
11:00 AM- 3:00 PM
5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Sat
11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sun & Holidays
11:00 AM- 9:00 PM

Ditails
Credit Card Payment: Available （VISA、Master、JCB、AMEX、Diners）
English Menu: Yes
Budget: JPY 6000 to 7000
Recommended Menu: Today’s Sashimi JPY 1078
Situation:Family,Group,Couples,Lunch,Dinner
Smoking:Non Smoking

You can switch the language at the bottom of the page on the linked site.

Umi Aji Hachikyo Honten

Umi Aji Hachikyo Honten is famous for its signature “Ganso Tsukko Meshi,” a rice bowl overflowing with fresh salmon roe. The impressive visual and flavor make this dish a must-try.

Detailed Reviews

Famous for its “Ganso Tsukko Meshi,” a rice bowl overflowing with fresh salmon roe, this restaurant is known for its lively atmosphere and attentive service, making it a memorable dining experience.

Location and contact
TEL: 050-5456-1219(Reservations available)
Address: 1F Miyako Building, Minami Sanjo Nishi 3, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Nearest Station: 1-minute walk from Susukino Station

Opening Hours
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
6:00 PM – 0:00 AM
Sunday & Holidays
5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Closed
New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day

Ditails
Credit Card Payment: Available （VISA、Master、JCB、AMEX、Diners）
English Menu: Yes
Budget: JPY 6000 to 7000
Recommended Menu: Assorted Sashimi JPY 2000-
Situation:Family,Group,Couples,Dinner
Smoking:Non Smoking

You can switch the language at the bottom of the page on the linked site.

Conclusion: Tips for Enjoying Seafood in Sapporo

To fully enjoy Sapporo’s fresh seafood, it’s essential to choose restaurants that offer local seasonal ingredients. Fresh ingredients unique to each season have distinct flavors. The price range is also important, with options ranging from high-end restaurants to affordable izakayas. Additionally, consider accessibility, especially for tourists. The Susukino area is particularly convenient, as it hosts many popular restaurants within walking distance, allowing you to enjoy both sightseeing and delicious food. Lastly, checking reviews and recommendations in advance can help you avoid disappointing experiences.

Places to Visit on Your Next Trip

For your next trip to Sapporo, why not try visiting some of the highly-rated restaurants such as Ruku & Uopei, known for its excellent value, or Umi Aji Hachikyo Honten, famous for its “Ganso Tsukko Meshi”? Also, don’t miss Donbei Nijo Market, where you can enjoy affordable seafood bowls, especially the morning market bowl. Sapporo offers a wide variety of restaurants serving delicious seafood, so include these spots in your travel plans to enjoy the best food experiences the city has to offer!