Are you a passionate food explorer visiting Japan? If so, Hokkaido Yokohama should be on your culinary bucket list. This popular Japanese restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience, blending authentic Hokkaido specialties with stunning city views and a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere. Here’s everything you need to know to truly enjoy your meal and the essential Japanese etiquette that will make your trip even more memorable!
Why Choose Hokkaido Yokohama?
- Authentic Hokkaido Dishes:
The menu features excellent seafood, including fresh sashimi, crab, and other local specialties sourced directly from Hokkaido. Every dish showcases the careful preparation and natural flavors that define Japanese cuisine. - Stunning Night Views:
Located on the 29th floor of Yokohama Sky Building, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramas of Yokohama’s glittering cityscape while you dine—a perfect setting for both casual meals and special occasions. - Elegant Yet Comfortable Atmosphere:
The restaurant attracts guests who appreciate a bit of luxury and tranquility. You’ll often find middle-aged diners relaxing in the mellow ambiance, but it’s popular with foreign visitors too.
Hokkaido Yokohama Sky Building offers a rich menu featuring carefully selected ingredients from Hokkaido, including crab cream croquettes, tempura, and a shellfish hot pot. These fried and hot pot dishes receive high praise in reviews for being “incredibly delicious” and for the excellent finish with noodles.
Many people note that crab cream croquettes and tempura require delicate skills and considerable effort, making them difficult to replicate at home. That is precisely why enjoying the professional taste at the restaurant is so worthwhile. In particular, fried dishes can change dramatically in flavor depending on subtle factors like oil temperature and batter thickness, making them a must-try during your trip to Japan.
Additionally, the shellfish hot pot features a rich broth concentrated with fresh seafood flavors, and it is common to add udon noodles at the end. This finishing touch offers a lighter taste than ramen while allowing you to savor every last drop of the shellfish-flavored soup, resulting in a highly satisfying meal that leaves nothing wasted[source].
Overall, we highly recommend experiencing the finest Hokkaido ingredients and culinary techniques firsthand to fully enjoy an authentic Japanese dining experience.
Don’t Miss Out: Try Japanese Fried Food (Agemono)
When you visit Japan, you simply must treat yourself to authentic Japanese fried dishes—known as agemono. These specialties are not only delicious but are true showcases of Japanese culinary skill and craft.
- Skillful Preparation:
Fried foods in Japan, such as tempura and croquettes, are renowned for their delicate techniques. Achieving the perfect crispiness requires expert control of oil temperature and batter thickness—something you can best enjoy in quality Japanese restaurants. - Variety Galore:
Enjoy classics like tempura (battered and fried seafood and vegetables), tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlet), ebi fry (deep-fried shrimp), and kaki fry (oyster fry). Each dish offers unique flavors and textures, from light and crisp to rich and savory. - Why Eat Agemono Out?
Many Japanese fried foods are difficult to perfectly recreate at home because they require refined techniques and high-quality fresh ingredients. Dining out lets you experience professional skills—so don’t miss the opportunity! - The Ultimate Japanese Experience:
Whether dipped in tentsuyu sauce, paired with special salts, or enjoyed piping hot, Japanese fried foods are a highlight of the local food culture and will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Delight in Two Signature Dishes: Crab Cream Croquettes & Tempura
- Crab Cream Croquettes:
A true delicacy, crab cream croquettes require meticulous craftsmanship. The smooth béchamel sauce inside is strained to a silky texture, blending high-quality crab meat with a hint of Parmesan cheese for richness. The coating is made with coarse bread crumbs applied twice to achieve a perfect crunchy exterior. Deep-fried at the right temperature, the croquettes are creamy on the inside and satisfyingly crisp on the outside—a dish worth savoring during your visit. - Tempura with Tentsuyu Sauce:
While tempura can be enjoyed in many ways, tentsuyu sauce is the most recommended. This traditional dipping sauce, made from a flavorful broth of dashi, soy sauce, and mirin, complements the crispy tempura batter perfectly. It harmonizes the delicate flavors, balances the oiliness, and can be enjoyed with grated daikon radish for a refreshing touch. Tentsuyu preserves the authentic experience and brings out the best in tempura.
Experience Japanese Dining Manners
To get the most out of your Japanese culinary adventure, embracing the local etiquette will help you blend in and show respect for Japanese culture:
- Greetings & Gratitude:
Start every meal with “Itadakimasu” (I humbly receive), expressing thanks for the food, and end with “Gochisousama” (thank you for the meal). - Use Chopsticks Properly:
Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in your rice—it’s associated with funerals. Don’t pass food from chopstick to chopstick, and use the chopstick rest when needed. - Be Quiet and Respectful:
Japanese dining emphasizes harmony and consideration for others. Keep conversations at a reasonable volume to ensure everyone, locals and visitors, can enjoy their meal comfortably. - Cleanliness is Key:
Tidy your eating area, do not leave food scraps, and return plates as you found them. Try to finish your dishes as it’s considered polite.
Enjoy Japanese Rules & Culture on Your Trip
Japan’s attention to detail touches every aspect of daily life, from dining to public behavior:
- Respect Local Customs:
Follow posted signs, queue politely, and remove your shoes where required. - Learn the Small Rules:
For instance, don’t eat or drink while walking, and always be punctual. - Approach with Curiosity:
Locals appreciate travelers who try to learn and enjoy Japanese customs. Even if you make mistakes, showing interest and respect will earn you smiles and help you make friends!
Make Your Travel Delicious and Enriching
Visiting restaurants like Hokkaido Yokohama isn’t just about the food—it’s a chance to experience Japanese hospitality, learn about local etiquette, and enjoy one of the world’s most refined culinary cultures. Respect the manners, embrace the customs, and indulge in the flavors of Hokkaido and Japan. You’ll leave with a full heart, satisfied taste buds, and wonderful memories to share.
Enjoy your journey—and your meal—in Japan!
コメント