From family-run izakayas to all-you-can-eat lamb BBQ, we’ve rounded up the best places to eat in Rusutsu so you can warm up and eat well all winter long.
Every winter, Hokkaido’s powder triangle pulls skiers into its orbit. Niseko is the international hotspot, Furano offers authentic, rural charm, and Rusutsu? Well, let’s just say it’s the ski instructor’s favourite ski town.
And when it comes to food, Rusutsu hosts a lot of unassuming local favourites. Most restaurants are run by the people who live here year-round, so menus reflect the region’s actual habits, seasons, and tastes. Hotpots are hearty, the seafood is fresh, and the grills deliver exactly what you want after a cold day on the mountain. Plus, you’re met with the kind of sincerity where the owners serve you themselves — and even remember your last order.
If you’re skiing this side of Hokkaido, here’s where to stay warm and well-fed between sessions on the slopes.
Read next: Niseko Après-ski Guide 2025: The Best Bars and Izakayas To Hit …
Mokumokuya
Why go? When you seriously need to defrost from the cold, a Genghis-style lamb barbecue feast is the way to go
Just minutes from Rusutsu Resort, Mokomokuya serves up the Hokkaido classic: all-you-can-eat Genghis Khan BBQ. Tender cuts of lamb are grilled right at your table, paired with a flavour-packed dipping sauce and best enjoyed with a cold beer in hand. Don’t be surprised if you leave with smoky clothes and a full stomach.
Address: 24 Izumikawa, Rusutsu, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 048-1711
Reservations and website: +81 80-9570-9164; Visit https://www.instagram.com/rusutsu.mokumokuya/?hl=en
Rusutsu Sakaba
Why go? A chilly winter blowing outside while you slurp on steaming shabu-shabu inside? Name a better combo, we’ll wait.
Just a quick stroll from Rusutsu Resort and conveniently near Seicomart, Rusutsu Sakaba is where you go when you’re hungry and ready to settle in for a feast. Think bubbling seafood hotpot, grilled squid hot off the coals and oysters so fresh you’ll want seconds. Pair it all with their stellar drinks list — rare local brews, crisp craft beers and even a strong showing of Belgian bottles — and you’ve got a night that’s equal parts hearty and fun.
Address: 188 Izumikawa, Rusutsu-mura, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 048-1711
Reservations and website: +81 136-55-6776; Visit https://www.instagram.com/rusutsusakaba/?hl=en
TAKiBi
Why go? To savour delicately prepared seasonal dishes in a cosy atmosphere that makes you feel right at home
Tucked away in Kimobetsu, TAKiBi is a family-run izakaya that’s been a local favourite since 2020. The menu celebrates the seasons with produce from nearby farms, wild vegetables foraged by the owner and sashimi from local waters. Don’t miss the motsunabe hotpot, which is rich in flavour and perfect for sharing. With a killer playlist and an inviting atmosphere, it’s the kind of place you’ll want to settle into for the evening.
Address: 242-2 Kimobetsu, Kimobetsu-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 044-0201
Reservations and website: +81 136-55-8438; Visit https://www.instagram.com/takibi_kimobetsu/
Uo-teru
Why go? For an authentic izakaya experience showcasing the region’s finest catch. Come for the food and stay for the warm vibes that the interiors (and the owners) bring
Right outside Rusutsu Resort, this seafood-focused izakaya highlights Hokkaido’s freshest catches alongside Wagyu beef sukiyaki and their standout pork shabu-shabu. Soft music, warm wooden interiors, subtle touches of cherry blossoms and tatami mats create an inviting, authentic atmosphere, while the friendly, accommodating owners add a personal touch that keeps both visitors and locals coming back.
Address: 24 Izumikawa, Rusutsu-mura, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 048-1711
Reservations and website: +81 90-5509-6035 or message on instagram.com/uo_teru_rusutsu/
Rodeo Drive
Why go? This Rusutsu institution serves up satiating meals prepared by the owner-chef himself. Smoked oysters and a glass of whisky? We’ll have another round, please!
Cosy and intimate, Rodeo Drive has been welcoming hungry skiers for over 20 years, making it the longest-running restaurant around Rusutsu Resort. The star of the menu? House-smoked dishes like oysters that are tended to for nearly eight hours, all crafted by owner-chef Tomoki Maeda, who still cooks every plate himself. Pair it with a pour from the impressive whisky line-up or a cold draught Guinness, and you’ve got the kind of spot that works just as well for a casual drink as it does for a hearty meal.
Address: 24 Izumikawa, Rusutsu, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 048-1711
Reservations and website: https://rusutsu-rodeo-drive.com/contact/resevation-page/
The Red House
Why go? If you’re a big group with varying tastes and preferences, Red House’s family-friendly fusion menu is a sure bet to keep everyone happy.
Blending Japanese and western cuisine, The Red House welcomes you with brick-red walls, wooden floors and comfy seating. The menu showcases locally sourced ingredients, with standout dishes like shabu-shabu, grilled lamb and seasonal mushrooms in a cast-iron skillet. Whether it’s a full meal, a quick snack or a slow coffee, the friendly staff and easygoing vibe make it a favourite for families and visitors alike.
Address: Izumikawa, Rusutsu, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 048-1711
Reservations and website: +81 136-55-5103 or tablecheck.com/shops/theredhouse/reserve; Visit https://theredhouse.jp/menu/
Hungry for more? Read these next:
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Niseko Dining Guide 2025: The Best Restaurants, Bars and Cafes to Try This Winter
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Additional text by Kissa Castañeda and Marbbie Tagabucba