1. What are some popular local dishes that visitors should try in Hakodate?
1. Ikura (Salmon Roe) Donburi: This dish consists of a bowl of fluffy rice topped with juicy, bright red salmon roe. It is a delicacy in Hakodate and can be found at many local seafood restaurants.
2. Genghis Khan BBQ: This dish features thinly sliced lamb or mutton grilled on a dome-shaped skillet and served with vegetables and dipping sauces. It is a must-try in Hakodate, which is known for its lamb dishes.
3. Squid Sashimi: Fresh, raw squid sliced into paper-thin pieces is a specialty in Hakodate due to its location on the coast. It is often served with soy sauce, wasabi, and other condiments.
4. Curry Ramen: Unlike traditional ramen broth made from pork or chicken, curry ramen in Hakodate has a rich and spicy curry-based broth that pairs perfectly with the noodles and toppings like roasted pork.
5. Jingisu-Kan Burger: This unique burger contains lamb meat patty seasoned with spices and topped with cheese, sauce, and vegetables. It originated in Hokkaido but has become popular throughout Japan.
6. Uni (Sea Urchin) Pasta: Another seafood delicacy found in Hakodate is the uni pasta, which features creamy sea urchin served over spaghetti or other types of pasta.
7. Kaisendon (Seafood Bowl): A popular dish at seafood markets and restaurants in Hokkaido, kaisendon consists of various sashimi fish arranged over a bowl of rice.
8. Hokkai Shokudo Milk Pudding: This famous dessert in Hakodate is made from fresh milk from local cows and has a smooth and rich custard-like texture.
9. Squid Ink Dishes: Due to the abundance of squid in Hakodate’s waters, many restaurants offer dishes made with squid ink such as squid ink pizza, pasta, and risotto.
10. Hakodate Shio Ramen: Another popular ramen dish in Hakodate is shio (salt) ramen, which features a clear and flavorful broth made from local seafood and a touch of salt for seasoning.
2. Are there any famous seafood markets or restaurants in Hakodate?
Yes, there are several famous seafood markets and restaurants in Hakodate:
1. Hakodate Morning Market: This is a wholesale seafood market that was established in 1952. It is open to the public from 5am to noon and offers a variety of fresh seafood such as crab, squid, scallops, and salmon.
2. Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse: Located at the historic former port district of Hakodate, this warehouse has been transformed into a shopping complex with various shops and restaurants selling fresh seafood dishes.
3. Donburi Yokocho Ichibangai: This street is lined with small restaurants serving up delicious donburi (rice bowl) dishes made with fresh seafood from the local markets.
4. Lucky Pierrot: This popular fast food chain serves up unique burgers, including ones filled with fresh Hokkaido scallops or crabs.
5. Enishi Suisan: This restaurant specializes in kaisendon (seafood rice bowls) made with seasonal ingredients from Hakodate’s fishing ports.
6. Kaisen-dokoro Tachimachiya: A cozy family-run restaurant known for its high-quality sashimi and grilled seafood dishes.
7. Kitano Gourmet & Chiroru Market: This market offers a wide selection of fresh local seafood as well as a dining area where customers can enjoy their purchases cooked on the spot.
8. Kikuyo Shokudo: A popular restaurant known for its freshly caught squid sashimi and other seafood dishes at affordable prices.
9. Asaichi Eki-mae Ichiba Market: Another popular morning market located near Hakodate Station offering an array of fresh seafood delicacies.
10.Osakana-Ya Kaijyo Shunsai Roppoku-pu Authorized Store : A renowned shop specializing in dried fish from all around Japan, offering over 300 different kinds of dried fish including tuna, salmon, shrimp and more.
3. Is it easy to find vegetarian or vegan options in Hakodate?
It may be slightly more challenging to find specific vegetarian or vegan restaurants in Hakodate, but most restaurants will have at least some vegetarian options on their menus. Traditional Japanese dishes such as vegetable tempura, tofu dishes, and sushi can often be made without meat or fish. It is also helpful to do some research beforehand and use resources such as HappyCow or TripAdvisor to find specific vegetarian or vegan-friendly restaurants in the area.
4. What is the best time of year to visit for seasonal cuisine in Hakodate?
The best time of year to visit for seasonal cuisine in Hakodate is during the winter months (December-March). This is when freshest and most delicious seafood, such as snow crabs and squid, are in season. The cold climate also allows for tasty winter vegetables, such as pumpkins and carrots, to be grown. Additionally, visitors can enjoy traditional winter dishes like hot pots and nabe (a Japanese stew) during this season.
5. Are there any specific foods or ingredients that are unique to Hakodate?
Some unique foods or ingredients in Hakodate include:
– Ikura (salmon roe) from the nearby area of Matsumae, known for its large and flavorful salmon
– Uni (sea urchin) from the waters surrounding Hakodate, which is considered some of the best in Japan
– Squid and other seafood caught in Hokkaido’s rich fishing grounds, often served as sashimi or grilled on skewers
– Genghis Khan, a dish of grilled lamb and vegetables that originated in Hakodate and has become a popular regional specialty throughout Hokkaido
– Ramen with shio (salt) broth, a local variation of the popular noodle dish found throughout Japan
– Junsai (water shield), an aquatic plant found in the nearby Onuma Quasi-National Park that is used in traditional Japanese cuisine such as salads or added to miso soup.
6. Can you recommend any budget-friendly dining options in the city?
1. Tacos El Gordo – a popular and affordable Mexican spot with delicious tacos starting at just $2 each.
2. Food trucks at First Friday – every first Friday of the month, an outdoor food market with various food trucks sets up in the Arts District offering a wide range of tasty and budget-friendly options.
3. The Peppermill – a classic Vegas diner serving huge portions at reasonable prices.
4. Grand Lux Cafe – located inside the Venetian hotel, this international-inspired restaurant offers generous portions at affordable prices.
5. The Garden Court Buffet – located in Main Street Station Hotel and Casino, this buffet offers great value for money with a wide variety of options.
6. Earl of Sandwich – a sandwich shop that’s perfect for grab-and-go meals with sandwiches starting at $6.
7. The Orleans Buffet – another budget-friendly buffet option with lots of choices and special discounts for locals.
8. Ellis Island BBQ – known for its cheap but delicious BBQ dishes, this local favorite is great for large group dining on a budget.
9. Shake Shack – a famous burger joint that also serves hot dogs, fries, and milkshakes at affordable prices.
10. Morimoto Las Vegas Market Bao Now – located inside MGM Grand, this casual Asian eatery offers steamed buns filled with tasty fillings for only $5 each.
7. Is it common for restaurants in Hakodate to have English menus or staff who speak English?
It depends on the type of restaurant and its location. Some restaurants in popular tourist areas may have English menus or staff who can speak some English. However, in general, it is not very common for restaurants in Hakodate to have English menus as the city caters primarily to Japanese tourists. It is always helpful to learn some basic Japanese phrases or use translation apps when dining out in Hakodate.
8. Do most restaurants accept credit cards, or is cash preferred?
Most restaurants in developed countries typically accept credit cards as a form of payment, though there may be some smaller or more casual establishments that only accept cash. In developing countries, cash may still be the preferred form of payment at many restaurants. It is always best to have some cash on hand when traveling, but it is generally safe to assume that most restaurants will accept credit cards.
9. Are there any trendy or upscale dining areas in Hakodate?
Yes, there are several trendy and upscale dining areas in Hakodate.
1. Bay Area: Located near Hakodate Bay, the Bay Area is a popular spot for tourists with its trendy bars and restaurants that offer stunning views of the bay. Some popular options include Hachikyo, a seafood restaurant famous for their overflowing ikura (salmon roe) bowls, and Daichan Yataimura, a collection of various Hokkaido food stalls.
2. Daimon Yokocho: This narrow alleyway is lined with small restaurants serving local specialties such as squid sashimi and Hakodate ramen. The atmosphere is cozy and traditional, making it a popular spot for couples and groups looking for an authentic dining experience.
3. Motomachi: This historic district is known for its Western-influenced architecture and trendy cafes and restaurants. It’s a great place to grab some coffee or dessert while exploring the charming streets of Motomachi.
4. Onuma Lake Resort: Located about 30 minutes from central Hakodate, this resort offers top-notch restaurants with panoramic views of the picturesque Onuma Lake. Enjoy gourmet French cuisine at Shikisai Bis or try delicious grilled meats at Teuchidaishokudo restaurant.
5. Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse: These red brick warehouses have been renovated into a commercial complex housing many shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a great place to enjoy some shopping before grabbing dinner at one of the upscale Italian or Japanese restaurants.
6. Mount Hakodate Ropeway Station: At the top of Mount Hakodate, visitors can enjoy breathtaking night views of the city while dining at one of the stylish restaurants inside the ropeway station.
7. Lucky Pierrot: Known as “the In-N-Out Burger of Japan”, this local fast-food chain has gained popularity among tourists for its quirky menu items such as “squid burger” and “Jumbo burgers”. Its retro-style interior adds to the unique dining experience.
8. Robata Alley: This narrow alleyway is filled with charming wooden buildings that house traditional izakayas (Japanese pubs) and robatayaki (grilled food) restaurants. It’s a great place to try different types of Japanese sake while sampling grilled seafood and vegetables.
9. Hakodate Morning Market: For a more casual upscale dining experience, visit the Hakodate Morning Market where you can find fresh seafood and local specialties such as squid ink ramen. Some restaurants also offer seafood breakfast sets, allowing you to start your day with a decadent meal.
10. Can you recommend a traditional tea house or cafe to experience local drinks and desserts?
One traditional tea house that I recommend is the Lao She Teahouse in Beijing. It has a rich history and offers a wide variety of traditional Chinese teas, as well as snacks and desserts. The atmosphere is authentic and the staff are knowledgeable about the different types of teas and their origins. It’s a great place to experience local drinks and desserts while also immersing yourself in Chinese culture.
11. Are there any outdoor dining options with scenic views of the city or nature?
Yes, there are several outdoor dining options with scenic views in most cities. Some popular options may include rooftop restaurants with a view of the city skyline, patio seating at restaurants overlooking a river or lake, or outdoor cafes situated in parks or gardens surrounded by nature.
12. How late do restaurants typically stay open in Hakodate?
Restaurants in Hakodate typically stay open until around 9 or 10 PM, but some may stay open later depending on the type of cuisine they offer and their location. Some bars and izakayas may stay open until midnight or later. It is always best to check with the specific restaurant for their exact hours of operation.
13. Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known restaurants that are worth trying?
– It really depends on your personal preference and location. A good way to discover hidden gems is to ask locals or do some research online for lesser-known restaurants in the area you are visiting. Some lesser-known restaurants that are worth trying in popular cities include: In New York City:
– Kiki’s (Greek restaurant in Chinatown)
– Buvette (small French bistro in Greenwich Village)
– Shu Jiao Fu Zhou (dumpling spot in Chinatown)
– The Halal Guys (famous street food cart with multiple locations)
In Los Angeles:
– Pine & Crane (Taiwanese food in Silverlake)
– Republique (upscale American cuisine is a historic building)
– La Taqueria Chilango (authentic Mexican food in Boyle Heights)
– Sapp Coffee Shop (Thai restaurant known for its boat noodle soup)
In Chicago:
– Parson’s Chicken & Fish (Fried chicken and seafood spot)
– Sun Wah BBQ (Chinese/Bangkok-style roast meats and noodles)
– Big Jones (Southern-inspired cuisine using locally sourced ingredients)
– Jamison B. Breadhouse & Deli (Eastern European bakery and deli)
14. Can visitors easily find international cuisine options in addition to local food?
It depends on the destination. In some areas, there may be a variety of international cuisine options available, while in others there may be limited options or none at all. It is best to research the specific area and its local dining options to determine the availability of international cuisines. Additionally, most popular tourist destinations will likely have at least some international cuisine options available for visitors.
15. Do food tours exist in Hakodate for those interested in trying a variety of dishes?
Yes, there are several food tours available in Hakodate that allow visitors to try a variety of local dishes. Some popular options include the Hakodate Night Foodie Tour, Hakodate Morning Market and Street Food Tour, and the Hakodate Gourmet Walking Tour. These tours typically include stops at local restaurants, markets, and food stalls where participants can sample a variety of traditional and contemporary dishes.
16. Is street food popular in the city and if so, what are some must-try options?
Yes, street food is very popular in the city. Some must-try options include tacos, elotes (corn on the cob with toppings), tamales, hot dogs (aka “dirty water dogs”), pizza slices, halal carts (serving gyro and chicken over rice), and bagels with cream cheese and lox.
17. Are there any farm-to-table restaurants showcasing local produce and ingredients?
Yes, there are many farm-to-table restaurants across the country that focus on showcasing local produce and ingredients. Some popular examples include Blue Hill at Stone Barns in Pocantico Hills, New York, Husk in Charleston, South Carolina, and Atera in New York City. These restaurants source their ingredients directly from local farms and often have a changing menu based on what is in season.
18. Is it recommended to make reservations at popular restaurants beforehand?
Yes, it is recommended to make reservations at popular restaurants beforehand. This will ensure that you have a table reserved for you and prevent any potential waiting times or disappointment if the restaurant is fully booked. It is especially important to make reservations in advance for special occasions or during peak dining hours.
19.Perhaps due to its location near the coast, does seafood play an important role in Hakodates cuisine offerings?
Yes, seafood plays a significant role in Hakodate’s cuisine offerings. Being located near the coast, the city has easy access to a variety of fresh seafood including squid, crab, shrimp, and various types of fish. Seafood is often incorporated into popular dishes such as Hakodate-style ramen (which uses seafood broth), donburi bowls topped with seafood sashimi, and grilled seafood skewers. The morning market in Hakodate is also a popular destination for tourists to try freshly caught and prepared seafood.
20.How long is the average wait time at popular restaurants during peak tourist season?
The average wait time at popular restaurants during peak tourist season can vary greatly depending on the specific restaurant and location. In some high-demand areas, such as popular tourist destinations like major cities or beach towns, wait times can range from 30 minutes to over an hour. In less crowded or more remote areas, the wait time may be shorter, averaging around 20-30 minutes. However, it is important to note that these are just rough estimates and actual wait times may vary greatly depending on factors such as the time of day, day of the week, and current events in the area. It is always best to check with individual restaurants for their current wait times before making a decision.