Ni no Kura

Ni no Kura in Sapporo's upscale Maruyama Park dares to go against the current by proposing the idea of elevating sushi into avant grade. The e 6-seat restaurant is the celebrated offshoot of the renowned Sushi no Kura, launching itself as an independent icon in 2020. Reservation times can be elusive, and the anticipation pays off, particularly within the masterfully crafted omakase experiences. Their menu showcases a pioneering spirit, redefining traditional sushi aesthetics and flavors. Signature dishes like the cold tempura of cod milt and the soldered-iron grilled squid roll make it a unique culinary exploration. The chef’s mastery shines with every bite, laying the foundation with rice perfectly seasoned with rice vinegar — a harmony that enhances tender, matured white fish toppings. The headlining act is the negima, a nigiri that borrows its flavors from the classical tuna and leek hotpot. The morsel is peppered with black pepper, wrapping the tongue with a spiced but flavorful burst of texture: crunchy, buttery, plumpy. The owner-chef is a charismatic guide through the culinary journey, often engaging with guests on the finer points of each course. This personal touch, coupled with the meticulous presentation of each dish, cements Ni no Kura as one of Hokkaido’s top dining destinations. Despite its remote locale, reservations is hard to come by, so book ahead of time.