Where to Eat in Hakuba
Hakuba is a small town nestled in a valley in Nagano Prefecture. Home to the 1998 Winter Olympics, this once sleepy ski town is now a thriving holiday destination. In fact, the powder snow of the Northern Japan Alps is so popular with Australians that you can find Aussie pies being sold out of food trucks! The reason that snow-seekers flock to Hakuba is the high-quality powder snow and ease of access from Tokyo. It is not just good for skiers and snowboarders too, as there are several kid's parks and glorious outdoor and indoor hotsprings.
With 10 snow resorts dotted across Hakuba Valley, you are spoiled for choice about where to spend the day. But where should you eat? In this blog I will introduce you to some of the best restaurants and cafes in Hakuba.
Cheap eats
Here are the best restaurants in Hakuba for when you're after a cheap and tasty bite to eat.
The Rabbit Hole Burger Bar & Cafe
Looking for the ultimate spot to unwind in Hakuba? The Rabbit Hole Burger Bar & Cafe is your go-to destination. Situated just steps away from the Sakka slopes, this trendy cafe and bar is the perfect place to indulge in mouthwatering burgers, refreshing drinks, and some of the finest barista-crafted coffee in the area. Whether you're stopping by for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this lively venue is a favorite for locals and travelers alike.
Evenings at The Rabbit Hole are filled with music, creating a vibrant atmosphere ideal for socializing with friends. Vegetarian options are available, and their burgers have a reputation as the best in town. After an exhilarating day on the slopes, stop by for a hearty meal, cold beer, and even a game of pool. With live music and an energetic vibe, it's no wonder The Rabbit Hole is Hakuba's top Apres-ski hangout.
Opening hours: 07:00-22:00
Website: https://www.facebook.com/therabbitholehakuba/
Hakuba Aprés
Situated at the base of Nakiyama Slope, Hakuba Aprés is the region's first daily on-snow après party. Enjoy live music, warm drinks, and a lively atmosphere both indoors and outdoors.
Opening hours: from 2pm
Website: https://hakubahospitalitygroup.com/winter/restaurants/hakuba-apres/
Cantina
Nestled in the heart of Echoland's restaurant strip, Cantina is a casual eatery serving a mix of Mexican and international dishes. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it's a go-to spot for great coffee, cocktails and Mexican food. It has raving reviews from fans of Mexican and has great Aussie style coffee.
Opening hours: 07:00-22:00
Website: https://www.facebook.com/cantinahakuba/
The Clubhouse
Kick off your day at The Clubhouse with expertly brewed coffee and breakfast, then return in the evening for signature cocktails and bar bites. With events like trivia nights and live music, it's a lively hangout spot.
Opening hours: 07:00-late.
Website: https://hakubahospitalitygroup.com/summer/restaurants/the-clubhouse/
Dining Bar Tomatito
This relaxed dining spot in Echoland combines Italian and Japanese flavours in a cozy, intimate setting. Enjoy beautifully presented dishes crafted with fresh, local ingredients, alongside daily specials. Vegetarian options are available.
Opening hours: 18:00-01:00
Website: https://www.hakuba.org/tomatito/
Cherry Pub
Cherry Pub brings a touch of country-western charm to Echoland, offering hearty BBQ ribs, steaks, tacos, and more. The bar features a wide array of drinks, including beers, whiskies, and creative cocktails. Vegetarian options are also available. This place is very popular for tourists in winter looking for a hearty meal!
Opening hours: 17:00-22:00. Closed Tuesday.
Website: https://tabelog.com/nagano/A2005/A200503/20015097/
Saragaku
A go-to spot for locals and large groups, Saragaku offers an inviting izakaya experience with unforgettable dishes. Located on Echoland's lively strip, this restaurant is worth the short taxi ride for its laid-back vibe and incredible menu. Don't miss the salmon and avocado combination or the tender pork belly, which highlights the famed Hakuba pork in all its glory. Saragaku is perfect for a relaxed evening with friends over delicious food and drinks.
Opening hours: Varies
Website: https://tabelog.com/en/nagano/A2005/A200503/20024380/
Tori Co. Izakaya
Tori Co. Izakaya is a favourite for its grilled chicken skewers, or yakitori. Using binchotan charcoal, this family-friendly eatery serves up smoky, flavour-packed chicken skewers prepared from various cuts. Perfect for warming up after a day on the slopes, Tori Co. is a must-visit for an authentic taste of Japan.
Opening hours: 16:00-22:00 (Last Order: 21:30)
Website: https://hakubahospitalitygroup.com/winter/restaurants/tori-co/
Hakuba Taproom
Located in Panorama Hotel, Hakuba Taproom features a diverse selection of craft beers, including offerings from local and Shizuoka breweries. Pair your drink with classic pub dishes like fish and chips or chicken parmigiana. This family-friendly spot also has a play area for kids and a free shuttle service for convenience. And if you want to watch a sporting match, this place is your best bet.
Opening hours: 16:00-22:00 (LO 21:30).
Website: https://tenguproperties.com/hakuba-taproom/
Bernd's Keller German Pub
Tucked inside the ski-in, ski-out Marillen Hotel at Happo, Bernd's Keller offers hearty German fare with a cozy ambiance. Ski right up to the door and refuel with their signature dishes, including juicy steaks, authentic German sausages, and slow-cooked pork knuckles. Enjoy your meal while gazing out at the snowy slopes--an ideal stop for hungry skiers.
Opening hours: 11:30-21:00 (Last Order: 20:30) (open only in winter)
Website: https://hakubahospitalitygroup.com/winter/restaurants/bernds-keller/
The Pub
The Pub, situated beside Momonoki Hotel, is a cozy European-style establishment with a friendly and inviting ambiance. It offers an excellent variety of beers and delicious classic pub fare. It has a romantic ski lodge vibe and is a lovely place to sit, eat and watch the snow fall.
Opening hours: 4-10pm
Website: https://mominokihotel.com/en/snow/cuisine/index.html
Tsuga Base
There's nothing quite like enjoying delicious food in a cozy restaurant while taking in the stunning views of the ski slopes and distant mountains. Tsuga Base offers craft beer and delicious pulled pork and French fries (along with many other dishes). They even have terrace seating if you fancy fresh air!
Opening hours: Open Year Round
Website: https://www.tsugabase.com
Blizzard Italian Cuisine
Blizzard offers a popular spot in Hakuba for Italian comfort food and a lively atmosphere. Located near the Happo Gondola, this venue serves authentic wood-fired pizzas, pastas, and other Southern Italian specialties. Whether you're stopping by for a morning coffee, a casual lunch, or an energetic evening with live music and DJs, Blizzard promises great food and memorable vibes. Its stylish decor, including a retro ski wall and Meiji-era artwork, adds to the charm.
Opening hours: 11:30-21:00. Closed Monday-Wednesday.
Website: https://hakubahospitalitygroup.com/winter/restaurants/blizzard/
Sounds Like Café
A favourite in Echoland, Sounds Like Café serves up breakfast classics, sandwiches, burgers, and pizzas. Their burgers in particular are met with high praise! With free Wi-Fi, it's an ideal spot for a laid-back meal or a coffee break on your day off.
Opening hours: 09:30-16:00 (LO 15:00). Closed weekends and public holidays.
Website: http://sounds-like-cafe.com
Hakuba Pizza
Situated in the Hakuba Gateway Hotel in Happo Village, Hakuba Pizza is your go-to spot for freshly made pizzas with a variety of toppings, complemented by an array of sides and drinks. With vegan cheese and gluten-free options, it caters to all dietary needs. Dine in, grab a takeaway, or opt for delivery!
Opening hours: 16:00-22:00.
Website: https://www.hakubapizza.com/en/
Lion Café & Bar
A local favorite in Happo Village, Lion Café is the ideal spot for a coffee break or a relaxed lunch. Their menu features fresh pastries, hearty burgers, wraps, and crispy fries, it's very much western style, nice for those living in Japan to enjoy. Conveniently located in the Happo Info Centre, it also offers free Wi-Fi.
Opening hours: 09:00-17:00.
Website: https://sites.google.com/view/lioncafe-hakuba/
Uncle Steven's Tex-Mex
Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Uncle Steven's serves hearty Tex-Mex cuisine just steps from the Happo Gondola. With an extensive menu of food and drinks, including vegetarian options and takeout service, it's perfect for refuelling after a day on the slopes.
Opening hours: 11:00-22:00 (LO 21:30).
Website: http://www.unclestevenshakuba.com
High class dining
If you are feeling fancy, here are our recommendations for the best high-end restaurants in Hakuba.
Mimi's Restaurant & Bar
Nestled within the Phoenix Hotel Hakuba, Mimi's Restaurant & Bar offers a refined dining experience that stands out in the Hakuba Valley. Combining a sleek, elegant setting with innovative cuisine, this restaurant is renowned for its use of premium local ingredients and exceptional presentation. Run by the talented duo Executive Chef Kazu Shimamoto and patissier Yuki Shimamoto, Mimi's consistently delivers culinary excellence.
The menu is a delightful blend of Western, Italian, and Japanese flavors, featuring standout dishes like house-made pasta, Shinshu salmon, Shinshu beef, and expertly prepared game. Before dinner, enjoy a handcrafted cocktail in the cozy lounge bar, where the extensive selection is sure to impress. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking an unforgettable meal, Mimi's is a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
For those visiting Hakuba during the holidays, Mimi's is a top choice for Christmas dinner, offering an indulgent five-course menu paired with impeccable service. Make your reservation early to secure a spot at one of the valley's most celebrated dining destinations.
Opening hours: Bar: 16:00-late / Restaurant: 18:00-22:00
Website: https://hakubahospitalitygroup.com/winter/restaurants/mimis/
Le Verdure
Located in Farm Hakuba, Le Verdure offers Italian dishes crafted with fresh, local ingredients. With panoramic views of the Hakuba Valley, this is an ideal spot for enjoying pizza, pasta, and seasonal specialties.
Opening hours: Varies
Website: https://www.farmhakuba.jp
Pilar Cafe & Restaurant
For a luxurious dining experience on the slopes, Pilar Cafe & Restaurant is the place to be. Perched at the top of the Happo-One gondola, this intimate venue boasts breathtaking panoramic views stretching from Tsugaike to Cortina. Pilar follows a "local production for local consumption" philosophy, using only the finest Hakuba-sourced ingredients in its Italian-inspired menu.
Choose from 3-4 set lunch options, complete with wine pairings to match your appetite and mood. With limited seating and high demand, Pilar is a must-book spot for those who want to enjoy gourmet dining alongside stunning mountain vistas.
Opening hours: Contact the restaurant for details.
Website: https://www.hotpepper.jp/strJ000845600/
Denenshi
Tucked away in a cozy home setting, Denenshi offers an intimate dining experience with two rotating set menus--Japanese and Western. The ever-evolving dishes are crafted with care and the handwritten menus and quiet atmosphere make it a hidden gem. Advance reservations are essential, especially during peak season.
Opening hours: 12pm - 10pm
Website: https://www.denenshi.com
Issei Japanese Cuisine
Run by a talented husband-and-wife team, Issei offers a refined Japanese dining experience in the heart of Happo Village. The menu highlights include Hakuba pork, seasonal duck shabu-shabu, and locally made soba noodles. Book early as this elegant restaurant is popular during winter.
Opening hours: 11:30-14:30, 17:30-23:00
Website: https://sushi-issei.com
