What to Eat in Otaru: A Culinary Guide – Must-Try Tasty Treats for Foodies

Known for its scenic canals, stunning glasswork, and historic buildings, Otaru is among the top destinations in Japan. Its culinary scene also contributes to the city’s reputation as a must-visit destination. From delicious seafood dishes and sushi to sweets, Otaru offers a diverse range of culinary options. These are the best foods to try during your time in Otaru.

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Seafood Rice Bowl 

Otaru is a port town, so you’ll find fresh seafood in abundance here. Tuna, scallops, and salmon make frequent appearances on dinner tables. If you want to stray from the norm, try sweet sea urchin or mantis shrimp. For a bit of everything, opt for a seafood rice bowl. You can find plenty of tourist-friendly restaurants in Otaru. For the freshest catch, however, head to Sankaku Market. If you want to find good accommodation and delicious seafood in one place, hotels like Grand Park Otaru feature some of the best restaurants in Hokkaido.

Sushi 

Sushi has to be the most well-known Japanese food. You’ll find a sushi restaurant in almost every country. While you may have one in your city, for the real thing, pop into a sushi restaurant in Otaru. Sushi in Otaru is made with the freshest fish, so you know it’s good. Around Otaru Station and Otaru Canal, you’ll find many sushi restaurants serving delicious sushi. For more options, head to Otaru Sushi Street.

Ankake Yakisoba

One of the tastiest noodle dishes you can try in Otaru is Ankake Yakisoba. It’s made with fried soba noodles. In the 1950s, it became highly popular in Chinese restaurants too. The noodles are served with a topping of a sauce made from seafood. Additional ingredients in Ankake Yakisoba include shrimp, clams, and cuttlefish. The best thing is that it’s not expensive at all – you can find a plate of Ankake Yakisoba for less than 1,000 yen.

Ramen 

Ramen isn’t really associated with the Otaru culinary scene, but restaurants and food stalls do serve delicious ramen that you simply must try. Hokkaido, thanks to its location, has an abundance of natural ingredients, and its ramen soup stock has a subtle yet delicious flavour. There are different versions of ramen soup – you can try salt, miso, or shoyu ramen, or all of them! Most ramen shops in Otaru have been around forever, so you can trust them to serve you the best ramen.

Hanmiage Chicken 

A beloved comfort food in Otaru, Hanmiage Chicken is as tasty as they come. The chicken is halved, marinated, and then fried until it turns a delectable golden brown. On the outside, it’s so crispy, and on the inside, it’s so succulent. Rest assured, you’ll want a second helping of this delicious chicken. If you ever want to try something a bit familiar yet different, you should give Hanmiage Chicken a try.

Sweets 

Those with a sweet tooth will find plenty to try in Otaru. The city is home to numerous confectionery brands. Ever tried LeTAO cheesecakes? It was founded right here in Otaru. You’ll find their shops all over the town. Your sweet options include classic cheesecake, chocolates, cheese Danishes, and soft-serve ice cream. Each branch has something special to offer, so it’s worth visiting, if not all, at least a few of them. There are many other confectionery brands as well. Some serve rum and raisin butter cookies, another must-try.

Otaru Beer 

Otaru is blessed with the best type of water, which is why the city’s beer is highly sought after. These beers are made with hops, malt, and mineral-rich water. Their refreshing, smooth flavour always leaves a lasting impression. If you’re curious about how these beers are made, visit Otaru Warehouse No. 1, a renovated warehouse now functioning as a brewery. Don’t forget to sign up for a brewery tour, where you’ll get to enjoy a freshly brewed beer with bratwurst sausages and various other local treats.