Nestled in Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido, Niseko has emerged as a winter wonderland for skiers and snowboarders worldwide. With its legendary powder snow, stunning mountain views, and world-class ski resorts, the destination has become a must-visit destination for international tourists across the globe seeking an unforgettable winter sports experience.

While mainly known for its winter sports, the town is also renowned for its culinary scene, which boasts a diverse range of local and international cuisine. From classic Japanese dishes to fusion cuisine and international cuisine, Niseko offers an array of gastronomic delights that will satisfy even the most discerning food connoisseurs.

If you’re planning a Spring trip to Niseko, you’re in for a treat. As the snow melts, the town’s restaurant scene comes alive with new seasonal menus and fresh ingredients, despite many restaurants are expected to close until the next winter season.

From traditional Japanese fare to contemporary fusion cuisine, we’ve compiled a list of restaurants you should check out during your visit, making your culinary journey in Niseko unforgettable.

Get a Taste of India at Taj Mahal Niseko Annupuri

If you’re in the mood for some Indian cuisine, Taj Mahal Niseko Annupuri is the place to go. The restaurant’s menu features a variety of authentic Indian dishes, including curries, biryanis, and tandoori dishes which you can order to your desired spice level. You can also enjoy a selection of Indian beverages like flavored lassi and Indian beers to complement your meal.  

The Taj Mahal has been in operation since 1982 and has now been over 30 years since the inception of the first Taj Mahal restaurant in Sapporo. What started as a small side business for Mr Daniel Mansukhani very shortly after its opening became a hit in the area, where there weren’t any Indian cuisine options then. The company has expanded to become the Taj Mahal Group of Restaurants. It now caters to a broad group of diverse customers. 

Rated #1 on Tripadvisor, they offer a selection of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes, perfect for those with food restrictions looking for a well-rounded and delicious meal. 

Niseko Pizza: The Best Italian Restaurant for Pizza Lovers

Niseko Pizza is a must-visit Italian restaurant for pizza lovers. With over 40 years of pizza-making experience in Europe, Niseko Pizza made its way to Niseko in 2007. The restaurant now has two locations including Iwanai and Kutchan.

With more than 20 different flavours of handmade wood-fired pizzas, the chefs prioritize using only the freshest premium ingredients sourced locally from Hokkaido and imported from Italy. Apart from the mouth-watering pizzas, the menu boasts a wide range of local and imported beers and wines that perfectly complement your meal. If you happen to be craving a slice of authentic Napoli style pizza, Niseko Pizza is the place for you. 

Miru Niseko’s Black Wood Grill: Food from the Hearth, with Heart

As one of the only few restaurants in all of Japan with an authentic wood-fired grill, Black Wood Grill is a must-try restaurant when visiting Niseko. True to its name, the restaurant specialises in wood-fired dishes, which draws out unique and distinct flavours that cannot be achieved with any other cooking method. Using only the freshest locally sourced ingredients, the menu is regularly updated to match the season’s harvest. Currently, the restaurant offers a chef’s omakase dinner, where each dish is meticulously designed to reflect the quality of the season’s ingredients. We recommend making reservations in advance as the restaurant gets busy for dinner.

Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Japanese food or international cuisine, there’s something for everyone to dine in Niseko. From the mouth-watering handmade pizzas at Niseko Pizza to authentic wood-fired grill dishes at Blackwood Grill, we invite you to try out these recommended restaurants during your next visit to Niseko for an unforgettable culinary experience.