TABETABI
It's getting cold, so it's the season for hot pot! We were eagerly waiting for the "Yose Nabe" (assorted hot pot) at this restaurant. The ingredients included fresh seafood like KinKi (yellowtail), Taraba (king crab), Madai (sea bream), Hotate (scallop), Awabi (abalone), and Tsubu (whelk). We devoured it quickly, and even though the broth was almost gone, they made a delicious porridge to finish off the meal. The Yose Nabe here is probably the best in Sapporo! Everyone was satisfied and it was a fantastic meal.
This restaurant is a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. They offer a wide variety of fresh seafood and mountain delicacies, mostly handmade. Recommended dishes during this season include grilled Daikoku butter or salt, grilled herring, fresh herring sashimi, homemade Kazunoko (herring roe), Yago-tachi (octopus and green onion skewers with miso), live snow crab, Soi (a type of fish), and Madai tempura or grilled in a ball shape. The Madai grilled in a ball shape is a delicacy that is sweet and delicious. They also offer fugu Shirako (blowfish sperm) for those who want to try different dishes. The menu is extensive with many options to choose from.
When we visit with a group of 3-4 people, we always order the chef's choice sashimi, Tsubu garlic, shrimp shumai (homemade), deep-fried KinKi, and bamboo shoot grilled, which are our go-to dishes. For tourists, sitting at the counter and asking the chef for recommendations is the best way to enjoy the meal. One interesting thing to note is that when you order oyster fry, they start shucking the oysters right in front of you to make the dish fresh. This shows the chef's dedication to serving delicious food.
The restaurant offers set courses starting from ¥6,000, but I recommend ordering a la carte to choose your favorite dishes. As time passes, you may see other dishes that catch your eye, and sticking to a set course might leave you feeling like you missed out. The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere, making it a high-end izakaya without being too formal. Prices may be higher compared to other izakayas, but the quality of the food ensures a satisfying dining experience.
Lastly, since the restaurant is always busy, making a reservation in advance is a must.