Seafood galore at izakaya in Hakodate! 20 popular spots where you can enjoy fresh treasures from the sea

Photograph:アオイとユウナ

The house specialty, "katsu-ika-sashi (live squid sashimi)," is a dish whose freshness is clear at a glance.

The translucent flesh has a nice bite, and the geso (squid tentacles) may also be served as Kara-age, which diners like because they can enjoy every last part of it to the end.

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The "osashimi assortment" features seasonal seafood such as salmon, chutoro (medium fatty tuna), and white fish.

The thickness of each slice and the freshness really stand out, letting you fully enjoy the natural flavor of the fish, and it pairs great with alcohol. It is well loved as a must order dish for fish lovers.

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Hakodate Dining Gaya is an izakaya located right by the west exit of JR Hakodate Station. With a focus on ingredients from Hokkaido, it offers a wide range of dishes from seafood and kushiyaki (grilled skewers) to a la carte items, and the interior is spacious and clean.

It also has table seating and Private rooms, making it easy to stop by for everyday dining.

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"Katsu ika-sashi (live squid sashimi)" is a signature specialty loved for its outstanding freshness, as it is taken straight from the tank and served.

The translucent flesh has a sweet taste, and you can choose how you want the head and geso (squid tentacles) cooked afterward, which is why people say you can enjoy it to the very end. It also pairs well with local Hokkaido sake.

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The “kani cream croquette (crab cream croquette)” has a rich flavor with a strong taste of crab.

Inside the coating, it is packed with plenty of crab meat, making it very satisfying to eat. It is also a popular choice as a snack to go with drinks.

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Izakaya Yushun Ikataro Honten is a seafood izakaya just a 3-minute walk from Hakodate-Ekimae Station.

Inside, fish tanks and aquariums line the space, and the seating is mainly Semi-private room tables, with a roaster at Each table. With plenty of seats, it has a lively atmosphere where you can enjoy grilled seafood and jingisukan (Hokkaido-style grilled mutton) in a fun group setting.

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The specialty “katsu ika-sashi (live squid sashimi)” is popular for its freshness, as they take it from the fish tank after you order and serve it right away.

The clear, translucent flesh has a nice bite, and the more you chew, the more sweetness comes through. Another nice point is that you can choose how you want the head and geso (squid tentacles) cooked.

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Even though seafood takes center stage here, Jingisukan (grilled lamb barbecue) is also a popular menu item. The fresh lamb cooked on a roaster is said to have few off notes, with a tender texture that stands out.

Some reviews also said that being able to enjoy both seafood and meat at the same time is a unique draw of this restaurant.

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A 4-minute walk from Goryokaku Koen-mae tram stop, Hakodate Kaisen Izakaya Uomasa Goryokaku Sohonten is a seafood izakaya where you can enjoy dishes centered on local ingredients.

All seats are in Private rooms with Sunken kotatsu seating, so you can relax without worrying about the people around you. The restaurant has a lively atmosphere, and it is also known for its pleasant, attentive service.

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"Katsu ika no sashimi (live squid sashimi)" is a classic dish that really gives you a sense of Hakodate. Its pleasantly firm, crunchy texture stands out, and pairing it with goro (the innards) brings out even more umami.

Many people say its flavor really lets you feel just how fresh it is.

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The "hokke (Atka mackerel) overnight dried fish" is a signature dish that lets you fully enjoy the fish's rich flavor.

With just the right amount of fat and a skin crisped up to a fragrant finish, this house made overnight dried fish is recommended when you want to take your time enjoying Japanese sake.

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Kaisen Ryori to Kamameshi Araki is an izakaya located just steps from JR Hakodate Station.

Along with fresh seafood dishes and kamameshi (rice cooked in an iron pot), they also offer a good selection of snacks that pair well with Japanese sake. The spacious interior feels clean and calm, and with Private room seating available, guests can relax and enjoy their time.

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The "katsu ika sashi (live squid sashimi)" is a signature menu item that really stands out for its freshness. It has a pleasantly firm texture, and the more you chew, the more sweetness comes out.

Many people pair it with Hokkaido local sake, and it is rated as a memorable dish.

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The popular Hokkai Kamameshi is loaded with seafood like crab, scallops, and ikura (salmon roe).

The freshly cooked rice soaks up the rich flavor of the seafood, and it is said to get even deeper and richer the more you eat. Another reason people enjoy it to the very end is that you can finish it off as ochazuke (rice with tea or broth).

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Hakodate Izakaya Okibi, about a 3-minute walk from JR Hakodate Station, is an izakaya where you can enjoy Hokkaido’s bounty from the sea and mountains, centered on gibier (game) dishes.

One thing that sets it apart is that the manager and owner are licensed hunters, and the interior has a friendly atmosphere. There are various types of seating, including counter seats and zashiki (tatami seating), making it an easy place to visit.

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The "venison skewer assortment" is a plate that lets you compare the textures and flavors of different cuts.

With items like thigh meat, Heart, and tsukune (chicken meatball-style patty), each skewer offers a different taste, and the careful prep keeps off notes to a minimum. The seasoning is said to be on the stronger side, making it a popular match for drinks.

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The popular “Hakoshika Shintama Ponzu” uses a rare lean cut from the thigh, and its tenderness really stands out.

Paired with refreshing ponzu sauce, it is said to be easy to enjoy even for first time diners trying game meat. Some say this dish changes your impression of venison.

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Jimotoya is a seafood izakaya (Japanese pub) located just steps from Goryokaku Koen-mae tram stop.

It has a large fish tank and serves Hokkaido-style dishes made with fresh seafood. There are counter seats and Private room options, and its relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere filled with locals is part of the appeal.

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The "osashimi assortment" stands out for its freshness and the thickness of each slice, and every piece is said to be satisfyingly substantial.

It also pairs well with Japanese sake, and many people enjoy it with local sake from Hokkaido.

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Boiled tarabagani (red king crab) is a popular menu item where you can enjoy Hokkaido's seasonal flavors.

By boiling it with care, its rich taste stands out, and the meat turns out plump and tender. Its deep flavor also pairs well with Japanese sake.

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Hakodate Kaisen Izakaya Yanshu Gyoba Nidaime Shoeimaru is a seafood izakaya about a 5-minute walk from Matsukazecho tram stop. It is known for serving local fresh fish specially selected by the owner, a former fisherman, prepared straight from the fish tank.

Inside, there are about 80 seats in total, from counter seats to table seating, giving the place a spacious feel. If you want to relax and enjoy a drink without worrying about the people around you, the tatami fully private rooms and Semi-private room box seats are also recommended.

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"hokke (Atka mackerel) sashimi" is known as a rare dish unique to Hokkaido.

It is said to have just the right amount of fat and a clean taste that makes it easy to enjoy. It also pairs well with Japanese sake and is the kind of dish that leaves a strong impression even on first time diners.

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"Katsuika-sashi (live squid sashimi)" is a signature local specialty that captures the spirit of Hakodate. Its clear, translucent flesh has a firm, crunchy texture, and you can taste different levels of sweetness depending on the part.

Another draw is that you can enjoy different kinds of squid depending on the season.

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Hako Min Shokudo is a seafood izakaya within walking distance of Hakodateekimae Station.

They offer a lineup of local Hakodate sake and well known sake from around Japan, centered on sashimi made with fish taken straight from the fish tank. The place has a lively, down to earth feel that makes it easy to stop by casually.

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The “katsu-ika sashimi (live squid sashimi)” is a signature menu item known for the clear look and texture you only get when it is freshly prepared. It has a firm, crunchy bite, and they say you can really taste the freshness all the way to the geso (squid tentacles).

Many people enjoy it with local sake, and it is said to be very Manzoku.

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The hokke (Atka mackerel) fry is a standard menu item that gives you a taste of Hokkaido. The coating is crisp and light, and it really lets the good flavor of the hokke come through.

It also goes well with tartar sauce, and many people choose it to go with beer.

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Hakodate Dining Bingoya is an izakaya tucked away in a quiet residential area of the Goryokaku (Goryokaku) area.

Inside, past the low entrance, you will find a hideaway-like space with all seats as Sunken kotatsu seating and Private room options available. With its dim lighting and calm atmosphere, it is said to be a great place to take your time and enjoy good food and drinks.

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The "Morisan hiko mabuta sumiyaki (charcoal grilled Morisan pork cheek)" is a popular menu item, grilled to a fragrant finish.

The aroma of the charcoal fire and the flavor of the sauce bring out the good taste of the pork, making it a satisfying dish. Many people order it with beer or Japanese sake, according to reviews.

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The “Fuwa Toro Dashi-maki Tamago (soft and creamy rolled omelet)” is a dish with a gentle texture made even smoother with nagaimo (Japanese mountain yam). The flavor of the dashi spreads nicely, and it is said to taste refreshing with grated daikon radish.

Reviews also said it pairs well with Japanese sake.

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Yakitori Oden no Juraku is an izakaya (Japanese pub) located just a short walk from the Matsukazecho tram stop.

With yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and oden (Japanese hot pot dishes) at the center of the menu, it also offers a full range of a la carte dishes. The nostalgic retro interior has a cozy, homey feel, and you can choose from everything from counter seats to raised tatami seating.

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"Oden" is a standard menu item, with the flavor of broth made from locally produced kombu kelp leaving a strong impression. The daikon radish in particular has a strong presence, and its gentle flavor is said to warm you up.

Every ingredient is carefully prepared, and it is well known for being highly satisfying even as a snack.

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"Shirasu-age (fried whitebait)" is a snack menu item with a nice crispy texture. It has a toasty flavor and is easy to nibble on, making it a dish that goes well with drinks.

Many people also order it with a highball and similar drinks.

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Maruha Shoten, a seafood izakaya (Japanese-style pub) just a 3-minute walk from Hakodateekimae Station, serves seafood in a hamayaki (seaside grill) style. Along with seafood, the menu features Hokkaido-style dishes such as Bibai yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and chanchan-yaki (salmon and vegetables grilled with miso).

Guests can grill everything to their liking over an irori (sunken hearth) or shichirin (charcoal brazier), and the lively atmosphere is said to make dining here especially enjoyable.

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Hamayaki (grilled seafood) is a signature style where seafood is grilled over an irori (sunken hearth) or shichirin (charcoal brazier).

A key feature is that you can grill items like ika geso (squid tentacles), hokkigai (surf clam), and scallops at your own pace, letting you enjoy both the smoky aroma and the freshness at the same time.

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The sashimi assortment is an appealing dish thanks to its freshness and generous selection.

It comes with a lineup of thick cut sashimi, including rare items such as hokke (Okhotsk atka mackerel) sashimi. It is popular as a seafood menu item you will want to enjoy with Japanese sake.

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Shunmi Karoku is an izakaya (Japanese-style pub) located just a short walk from Goryokaku Koen-mae streetcar stop.

With a seafood-focused menu, it offers a wide range of dishes that pair well with drinks, along with a large selection of local sake. It is also known for having many Private room options and partitioned seats, so guests can enjoy their meal in a calm atmosphere.

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The house specialty, Ika no Tataki (lightly pounded squid), is an original dish known for its usuzukuri (paper-thin slices) style that brings fugu sashimi to mind.

The carefully prepared squid is served with special ponzu sauce and yakumi (condiments), letting you enjoy its refined texture and rich flavor. Its beautiful presentation is part of the appeal.

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"Tebasaki Spicy" is a classic menu item with bold seasoning that goes well with drinks.

Its spicy flavor pairs well with beer and highballs, so many people order it as a snack with drinks.

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Izakaya A-san, within walking distance of Goryokaku Koen-mae tram stop, is a calm izakaya tucked away in a residential neighborhood.

It offers dishes made with fresh ingredients and local sake from Hakodate, and also has counter seats and Private room-style raised seating. It is a restaurant loved by locals as well.

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The signature sashimi toku-mori (special assorted sashimi platter) is a bold plate loaded with the day's recommended seafood.

It may come with chutoro (medium fatty tuna), botan-ebi (spot prawn), hotate (scallop), uni (sea urchin), and more, and you can tell at a glance how generous it is. This popular menu item is also said to stand out for its freshness.

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"Garokaku Kaki (oysters)" is a seasonal dish made with oysters caught in the waters off Hokuto City.

The meat is said to be plump, with a rich, savory taste. It is described as a menu item that lets you enjoy the simple flavor of the ingredients, paired with Japanese sake or shochu.

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"Kaisen Jingisukan Hamayaki Beibe Hakodate Ekimae Ten" is a lively izakaya in a great location just a short walk from Hakodate Station.

One of its highlights is that you can enjoy grilled seafood and jingisukan (grilled mutton dish) all at once, and it also offers a wide selection of Japanese sake and All you can drink menus.

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The signature jingisukan (grilled mutton dish) uses lamb with no off notes, and people like the texture and rich flavor of each cut.

If the timing is right, you may also come across rare cuts like lamb Heart, lamb tongue, and lamb liver, and the special sauce mixed with the sweetness of the fat coating the vegetables is said to leave a lasting impression.

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Hamayaki (seaside-style grilled seafood) is a menu item that lets you enjoy Hokkaido-style seafood like scallops and hokkigai (surf clam) in a bold way.

By grilling it with soy sauce and butter, it brings out the Fresh Scent of the Ocean and rich flavor, making it a great match for drinks. Another thing that makes this place special is that you can enjoy seafood along with jingisukan (grilled mutton).

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Taishu Shokudo Guangzhou Greco is a casual Chinese-style tavern just a 3-minute walk from Goryokaku Koen Mae tram stop.

The Sunken kotatsu seating comes with dedicated lemon sour servers, and the restaurant also has zashiki (tatami seating) and Private rooms. With its bright, unpretentious atmosphere, it is a great spot for drinks with friends or everyday dining.

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The signature "oden (Japanese one-pot dish)" is known for its rich flavor made with chicken paitan broth.

The broth soaks well into ingredients like daikon radish, eggs, and chicken wings, and the especially large daikon radish is said to make a big impression. It is also a popular dish to enjoy with drinks.

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The hanetsuki gyoza (pan-fried dumplings with crispy wings) are nicely browned on the cooked side, with crisp, crackly wings and a juicy filling.

They also offer shoga (ginger)-forward white gyoza and red gyoza with a punch of garlic, and it is said that many people enjoy comparing them while pairing them with champagne or lemon sour.

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Izakaya Futami Sakaba, a 1-minute walk from Goryokaku Koen-mae tram stop, is a nostalgic retro izakaya in the Honcho area.

With a focus on fresh seafood sourced from Oshamambe Fishing Port, it also offers a wide selection of Japanese sake and Hakodate Wine. There are tatami seating areas and table seating, and the atmosphere is calm and good for a relaxed drink.

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The popular “Futami Salmon Trio” is a signature dish that lets you enjoy three kinds on one plate: sashimi, carpaccio, and aburi (lightly seared).

With a setup that lets you compare small bites of each, it is said to be just right to go with drinks. The Trio series is also available with other ingredients, and its easy, casual shareable style is part of the appeal.

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Many say that every item in the "osashimi assortment (assorted sashimi)" is very fresh, with thick cuts that are satisfying to eat.

They also offer dozens of small bottles of Japanese sake that pair perfectly with the fresh seafood, making it easy to casually compare different kinds.

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Sandai-me Amimoto Uosen Suisan Hakodate Goryokaku Honcho Ten is a seafood izakaya located about a 3-minute walk from Goryokaku Koen-mae tram stop.

Along with fresh seafood prepared from the fish tank in the restaurant, it also offers Hokkaido gourmet dishes and a good selection of drinks. The spacious interior has a lively feel, making it a good choice for a fun night out with friends.

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"Katsu ika sashi (live squid sashimi)" is a Hakodate local specialty that catches the eye with its translucent flesh and moving geso (squid tentacles). The goro (innards) has no off notes, and the taste clearly shows how fresh it is.

When you squeeze lemon over it, the legs move, which adds to the experience and makes it feel very Hakodate.

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The tebasaki (chicken wings) are said to be crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them a great match for beer.

They also offer a wide selection of drinks and snack menu items, which makes it easy to keep the drinks coming.

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Kappo Izakaya Yoi no Ma〇, about a 5-minute walk from Goryokaku-Koenmae tram stop, is a kappo izakaya geared toward adults.

The interior, marked by its white wood counter, has an elegant and calm atmosphere. It also has Sunken kotatsu seating Private room options, making it a place where you can relax and enjoy food and drinks.

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The “sashimi go-ten-mori (five-item sashimi assortment)” is made with fresh fish sourced that day, and it is said to be a plate that shows both freshness and careful preparation.

The hon-maguro (bluefin tuna) chutoro and uni (sea urchin) in particular have a rich, melting texture, and the careful knife work really comes through, making the drinks go down easy.

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The shiro-ebi (glass shrimp) kakiage (mixed tempura fritter) is said to be lightly fried with a taste that doesn’t feel greasy.

They also offer a good range of à la carte dishes, such as shiro reba (white liver) pâté and Ezojika (Hokkaido venison) roast, which are also popular for pairing well with Japanese sake and wine.

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"Western Kitchen" is an izakaya about a 4-minute walk from Goryokaku Koen-mae tram stop, tucked away in an alley in Yanagawacho. The stylish interior offers a lineup centered on Kyushu ryori (Kyushu cuisine).

They also have a wide selection of Imo Shochu, making it a great spot for a relaxed night of drinks.

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The "Ganso Miso Motsu Hot Pot" is said to pair rich miso broth well with plump motsu (offal).

The sweetness of the cabbage and nira (garlic chives) also stands out, and the sense of Manzoku continues through the finishing ramen. People also like that they use noodles that do not get soggy easily.

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The "Chicken Nanban" is a popular menu item, with hearty chicken generously coated in homemade tartar sauce.

It is said to have a juicy finish and a flavor that goes great with drinks. The rich seasoning, typical of Kyushu (Kyushu region), is also part of its appeal.