Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is a city that truly embraces its culinary culture. Known for its unique regional dishes such as miso ramen, Genghis Khan BBQ, and fresh seafood bowls, Sapporo offers a rich gastronomic experience that draws food lovers from across the globe. In this guide, we will introduce you to the must-try dishes and the best dining spots in Sapporo, helping you make the most of your culinary adventure.
Must-Try Local Dishes in Sapporo
Sapporo’s food scene is a reflection of the Hokkaido region’s abundant natural resources, from its pristine waters to its fertile land. This has resulted in a range of dishes that highlight the freshest ingredients and unique flavors. Whether you’re a fan of rich soups, grilled meats, or fresh seafood, Sapporo has something for everyone. Below are some of the key dishes that are synonymous with Sapporo.
Miso Ramen
Miso ramen is perhaps the most famous dish to emerge from Sapporo’s food culture. Known for its hearty broth, this dish is a comforting bowl of noodles that’s perfect for the city’s cold winters.
History and Significance of Miso Ramen
Sapporo is the birthplace of miso ramen, a dish created in the 1950s to cater to the region’s cold climate. The rich miso-based broth, combined with pork, vegetables, and thick noodles, provides a robust and satisfying meal that’s distinctly different from other ramen varieties found in Japan. The key ingredient, miso, gives the broth a salty, umami flavor that’s both warming and flavorful.
Where to Eat the Best Miso Ramen in Sapporo
For the best miso ramen, head to the famous Ramen Alley (Yokocho), located in Susukino. Here, you’ll find numerous ramen shops, each offering their take on this iconic dish. Top recommendation is include Sumire and Keyaki, both well-known for their rich, flavorful bowls. Customizing your ramen with toppings such as butter, corn, and garlic can enhance the experience.
Genghis Khan BBQ (Jingisukan)
Genghis Khan BBQ, or Jingisukan, is a beloved Hokkaido dish that features grilled lamb or mutton, cooked on a special dome-shaped grill.
The Tradition of Genghis Khan BBQ
Named after the Mongol emperor, Genghis Khan BBQ is a grilling tradition unique to Hokkaido. The dish involves grilling lamb or mutton on a metal dome, with the juices flowing down to flavor the vegetables below. This dish is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, as it highlights the bold, savory flavors of the meat and the freshness of locally grown vegetables. Lamb is not a common ingredient in Japanese cuisine, making this dish a standout specialty of Sapporo.
Top Genghis Khan BBQ Restaurants in Sapporo
To try authentic Jingisukan, visit Jingisukan Daruma, one of the most popular restaurants for this dish. Located near Susukino, Daruma offers a traditional BBQ experience with high-quality lamb. Another great option is Matsuo Jingisukan, known for its casual atmosphere and delicious grilled meats. Prices typically range from ¥1,500 to ¥3,000 per person.
Seafood Specialties in Sapporo
Sapporo’s proximity to the cold waters of the Sea of Japan ensures an abundance of fresh seafood. One of the best ways to experience this is through kaisendon, a seafood rice bowl.
Kaisendon: The Ultimate Seafood Rice Bowl
Kaisendon is a must-try dish for seafood lovers. This hearty bowl typically features a generous serving of fresh seafood atop a bed of rice. Popular ingredients include crab, salmon roe, uni (sea urchin), and other seasonal seafood, all of which are caught locally in Hokkaido’s rich waters. Each bite is a celebration of freshness and flavor, offering a true taste of Sapporo’s coastal bounty.
Where to Find the Best Kaisendon in Sapporo
For the freshest kaisendon, head to Sapporo Central Wholesale Market. Restaurants in the market area, such as Kita No Gourmet and Gannen, serve top-quality seafood bowls at affordable prices. You can expect to pay anywhere from ¥2,000 to ¥5,000, depending on the variety and amount of seafood.
Sapporo’s Unique Soup Curry
Soup curry is a Sapporo-born dish that has gained widespread popularity across Japan. It is a flavorful, thin broth packed with vegetables and meat.
What Makes Soup Curry Different
Unlike the thicker Japanese-style curry, soup curry has a thin, flavorful broth that’s loaded with seasonal vegetables and meat. What makes it truly special is the use of local Hokkaido ingredients, including potatoes, carrots, and chicken, all simmered in a spiced broth. The dish is customizable, allowing diners to choose their preferred spice level and soup base, making it a versatile option for everyone.
Where to Eat Soup Curry in Sapporo
Some of the top soup curry spots in Sapporo include Garaku, Samurai, and Suage. Both offer a wide range of curry bases and toppings, allowing you to create your perfect bowl. For first-time visitors, try a mild broth with Hokkaido chicken for a balanced flavor. Prices range from ¥1,200 to ¥2,000 per bowl, depending on the toppings.
Sapporo Sweets: A Taste of Hokkaido’s Dairy
Hokkaido is famous for its high-quality dairy products, and Sapporo’s sweets scene is filled with indulgent treats that highlight these rich ingredients.
LeTAO Cheesecake and Hokkaido Soft Serve
One of the most famous sweets in Sapporo is the LeTAO Double Fromage Cheesecake, a soft and creamy dessert that has become a local favorite. In addition to cheesecake, Hokkaido’s soft serve ice cream is a must-try, made with rich, fresh milk from local farms.
Best Places to Indulge in Sapporo’s Sweets
To satisfy your sweet tooth, visit LeTAO Bakery or Kinotoya Bake, both of which offer a range of delicious desserts made from Hokkaido dairy. These spots are located conveniently in the city center, making them an easy stop during your Sapporo food journey.
