Best Seafood Izakaya in Hakodate: 6 Must-Try Spots for Fresh Local Seafood

Hakodate has long been one of Hokkaido’s leading fishing ports, known for its exceptionally fresh seafood. Local specialties such as live squid, sea urchin, and shellfish arrive daily from nearby waters, making the city a favorite destination for seafood lovers.

From lively izakaya serving fresh catches to long-established local restaurants, Hakodate offers plenty of ways to experience the region’s seafood culture. Here are 6 recommended spots where you can enjoy some of the city's best seafood.

• Hokkaido

KAIKOUBO

Located inside Hakodate Morning Market, KAIKOUBO is operated by a seafood wholesaler specializing in crab and live seafood. A large tank inside the restaurant is filled with fresh fish, scallops, oysters, and other local catches. Pick your favorite and have it cooked to order on the spot. Popular choices include rich sea urchin donburi and bowls topped with generous portions of salmon roe.

Kozaru

Kozaru offers a wide variety of dishes, from light snacks to hearty plates. Highlights include fresh seafood that pairs well with sake and fresh seared chicken tataki sourced directly from Kyushu. Popular choices also include dashi maki tamago (Japanese rolled omelet), along with house-made tsukune (chicken meatballs), gyoza, and pizza. Choose from the extensive sake selection and enjoy a relaxed evening of food and conversation.

Shunmi Karoku

Shunmi Karoku offers a diverse menu of more than 100 Japanese dishes, blending time-honored traditions with contemporary touches. A major highlight is the Saikyo no Atsuyaki Tamago (a thick rolled omelet), made with 10 eggs using a recipe passed down since the restaurant's founding. The finely sliced ika no tataki (squid sashimi) is another popular specialty.

Instead of offering a fixed course menu, the restaurant takes a personalized approach to dining. Share your occasion and preferences when booking, and the chef will create a one-of-a-kind course featuring seasonal ingredients from Hakodate, tailored just for you.

Shukosaiyu Joppari

Just a short walk from Suginamicho Tram Stop, Shukosaiyu Joppari is a seasonal izakaya tucked away on a quiet side street. The relaxed interior features counter seating, tables, and raised tatami-style seating, making it a comfortable choice whether you are dining solo or with a group.

The menu showcases carefully selected ingredients, including fresh seafood from southern Hokkaido, Hakodate Wagyu beef, and Shiretoko chicken. Don't miss the Kani Miso Gratin, a popular dish that combines rich crab tomalley with a creamy white sauce.

Sakae Zushi Takasago-dori

Sakae Zushi Takasago-dori is a popular sushi restaurant serving fresh seafood from the waters off Hakodate and across Hokkaido at budget-friendly prices. In addition to sushi, the menu features a variety of dishes perfect with a drink, including sashimi, grilled specialties, and fried favorites. Conveniently located near Hakodate Station, the restaurant is always buzzing with locals and visitors alike.

Uonagi

Uonagi is a seafood izakaya known for its abundant selection of fresh catches from Hakodate and nearby coastal waters. Live squid is a specialty, alongside seasonal seafood that showcases the flavors of this historic port city. The restaurant is also popular for dishes featuring Hakodate Wagyu, a rare local brand of beef. With its relaxed atmosphere, Uonagi offers a taste of Hakodate’s food culture.

Final Thought

No visit to Hakodate is complete without enjoying its famous seafood. The restaurants featured here offer everything from live squid to fresh shellfish at budget-friendly prices, showcasing the flavors that make Hakodate one of Japan’s leading seafood destinations. Gather around the table and enjoy some of the city’s finest seafood during your stay.