Mixing passion with purpose, Ioanna Morelli brings cocktails, community, and a touch of magic to Niseko’s après-ski scene and beyond.
Hospitality veteran Ioanna Morelli, co-owner of the popular Bar Gyu+, is a fierce advocate for her adopted home. “I moved here in 2006, with very little knowledge of Hokkaido or even Japan, but quickly felt like this was my home,” she shares. Morelli skillfully combines running Bar Gyu+ with a second role as Representative Director of Niseko Tourism. And that’s on top of parenting her one-year-old son, Kenzo, whom she shares with husband and Bar Gyu+ co-owner Hisashi Watanabe.
With so many plates spinning, how does Morelli remain motivated? “I love being in a place where nature and community blend so seamlessly, and where people from all over the world come together,” she says. “It’s such a dynamic and inspiring environment.”
This inspiration is evident in her work at Bar Gyu+. When Morelli took on the already established spot she saw the potential to keep its intimate, speakeasy vibe while modernising the menu and space. Seasonality is a watchword here, with the couple using fresh, local ingredients to create simple but delicious cocktails, perfectly executed.
Today, Morelli remains as passionate as ever about Niseko. “There’s a constant ebb and flow of locals and visitors, which creates this incredible energy,” she muses. “Every season brings new faces, yet there are also seasonal ‘regulars’. Our bar is 26 years old now, so we are seeing their children come to the bar. That’s pretty special.”
BAR GYU+
1-50, 2-Jo, 3-Chome, Niseko Hirafu, Hokkaido 044-0081
Walk in only.