Sapporo

1. Local Cuisines and Popular Dishes in Sapporo

Sapporo is famous for its rich culinary traditions, heavily influenced by Hokkaido’s abundant natural resources. Here are some must-try local dishes:

a. Sapporo Ramen

• Description: Sapporo is the birthplace of miso ramen, a hearty noodle soup made with a miso-based broth, often topped with corn, butter, pork, bamboo shoots, and green onions.
• Where to Try: Visit the famous Ramen Alley (Ganso Ramen Yokocho) in Susukino, where you’ll find small shops specializing in this iconic dish.

b. Genghis Khan (Jingisukan)

• Description: A Hokkaido specialty, this is a grilled lamb dish cooked on a dome-shaped skillet. The meat is tender and flavorful, often paired with vegetables and a dipping sauce.
• Where to Try: Sapporo Beer Garden is a popular spot to enjoy this dish alongside freshly brewed beer.

c. Fresh Seafood

• Description: Hokkaido is known for its seafood, including crab (king, snow, and hairy crab), sea urchin (uni), scallops, and salmon roe (ikura). These are often served as sushi, sashimi, or in rice bowls (kaisendon).
• Where to Try: Head to Nijo Market or Curb Market for fresh seafood bowls.

d. Soup Curry

• Description: A Sapporo specialty, soup curry is a flavorful, spicy broth filled with vegetables, chicken, or seafood, served with rice on the side.
• Where to Try: Garaku and Suage+ are well-known soup curry restaurants.

e. Hokkaido Dairy Products

• Description: Hokkaido is famous for its high-quality dairy products. Try soft-serve ice cream, butter, cheese, and milk-based desserts.
• Where to Try: Many dessert shops and cafes in Sapporo offer Hokkaido milk-based treats. Milk Mura in Susukino is a great spot for soft-serve ice cream.

f. Sapporo Beer

• Description: Sapporo is home to Japan’s oldest beer brand, Sapporo Beer. Pair it with local dishes for an authentic experience.
• Where to Try: Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum and enjoy a tasting session.

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2. Costs of Eating Out in Sapporo

Dining in Sapporo can range from budget-friendly meals to high-end experiences. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs:

• Budget Meals: ¥500–¥1,000 (e.g., ramen, curry rice, or convenience store bento boxes).
• Mid-Range Restaurants: ¥1,500–¥3,000 (e.g., soup curry, sushi, or izakayas).
• High-End Dining: ¥5,000+ (e.g., kaiseki meals, premium seafood, or fine dining).
• Street Food: ¥300–¥800 per item (e.g., grilled seafood skewers, corn on the cob, or melon soft-serve).

Tipping is not customary in Japan, so the price you see on the menu is what you pay.

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3. Dining Etiquette in Sapporo

Japanese dining etiquette is important to follow, and Sapporo is no exception. Here are some key points:

a. Before Eating

• Say “Itadakimasu” (I humbly receive) before starting your meal.
• If chopsticks are provided, avoid sticking them upright in rice, as this is associated with funerals.

b. During the Meal

• Slurping noodles (e.g., ramen) is acceptable and shows appreciation for the food.
• Use the opposite end of your chopsticks to take food from shared dishes.
• Avoid pouring soy sauce directly onto rice; instead, use it for dipping sushi or sashimi.

c. After Eating

• Say “Gochisousama deshita” (Thank you for the meal) to show gratitude.
• Return your dishes to their original arrangement if possible.

d. Payment

• Pay at the register rather than leaving money at the table.
• Many restaurants accept cash only, so carry yen with you.

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4. Cultural and Social Practices in Sapporo’s Dining Scene

• Seasonal Ingredients: Hokkaido’s cuisine emphasizes seasonal ingredients, so menus may change depending on the time of year.
• Reservations: High-end restaurants and popular izakayas often require reservations, especially during peak tourist seasons.
• Solo Dining: It’s common and perfectly acceptable to dine alone in Sapporo, especially at ramen shops and casual eateries.
• Smoking: Some izakayas and bars allow smoking, so check for non-smoking sections if needed.

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5. Must-Visit Restaurants, Izakayas, and Food Markets

a. Restaurants

1. Ramen Shingen (Miso Ramen)

   • Known for its rich and flavorful miso ramen.
   • Location: Susukino area.

2. Hyousetsu no Mon (Crab Cuisine)

   • Specializes in crab dishes, including hot pot and sashimi.
   • Location: Susukino area.

3. Sapporo Beer Garden

   • Famous for Genghis Khan and freshly brewed Sapporo Beer.
   • Location: Near the Sapporo Beer Museum.

b. Izakayas

1. Kushidori

   • A popular chain specializing in yakitori (grilled chicken skewers).
   • Location: Multiple branches in Sapporo.

2. Daruma

   • A well-known spot for Genghis Khan in a casual izakaya setting.
   • Location: Susukino area.

c. Food Markets

1. Nijo Market

   • A historic market offering fresh seafood, produce, and local delicacies. Try a kaisendon (seafood rice bowl) here.
   • Location: Central Sapporo.

2. Curb Market (Sapporo Jogai Ichiba)

   • A larger market with a wide variety of seafood and local products. Many restaurants serve fresh seafood dishes.
   • Location: Near Sapporo Station.

3. Sapporo Factory

   • A shopping and dining complex with a variety of restaurants and cafes, perfect for sampling local cuisine in a modern setting.
   • Location: Central Sapporo.

d. Street Food

• Odori Park: During festivals like the Sapporo Snow Festival, you’ll find food stalls selling grilled seafood, corn, and sweet treats.
• Tanukikoji Shopping Street: A covered arcade with shops and casual eateries offering local snacks.

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6. Practical Tips for Dining in Sapporo

• Language: Many restaurants have picture menus or English translations, but learning a few Japanese phrases (e.g., “Sumimasen” for “Excuse me”) can be helpful.
• Cash vs. Card: Smaller establishments may only accept cash, so carry yen.
• Peak Hours: Popular spots can get crowded during lunch (12:00–1:30 PM) and dinner (6:00–8:00 PM). Arrive early or make reservations.
• Seasonal Festivals: If visiting during festivals (e.g., Sapporo Snow Festival in February), explore the food stalls for unique seasonal dishes.

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Sapporo’s food scene is a delightful mix of traditional and modern, offering something for every palate. Whether you’re savoring a bowl of miso ramen in a cozy shop or enjoying fresh seafood at a bustling market, the city’s culinary offerings are sure to leave a lasting impression. Enjoy your gastronomic adventure in Sapporo!