[Drinking in Otaru]
When traveling on business, I like to enjoy unique local drinks and the distinct atmosphere of local bars that can only be found in that specific town. During my recent business trip to Otaru, I visited several establishments and enjoyed time immersing myself in the town's history and the warmth of its people. Today, whether you prefer lingering at a single place or bar-hopping, here are three spots in Otaru that you should definitely visit.
First is "Otaru Bine" on Nichigin-dori Street. The reason for its dignified exterior and distinct presence might be that this building is the former Hokkaido Bank Head Office, built in the Meiji period. The history of Otaru as a financial hub once known as the "Wall Street of the North" seems to radiate from the building's presence. To pair with dishes made from seasonal local ingredients, try the wines that can only be enjoyed within the city. You can compare limited-edition wines featuring fruity, refreshing sweetness at reasonable prices. The restaurant also has an adjoining wine shop, making the search for souvenirs for wine-loving family and friends an exciting experience.
The second spot is "Tachinomi Sakaba Ishikawa Genzo Shoten." Stepping into the retro, stylish stone building, you are greeted by a well-seasoned U-shaped counter. Start with a cold beer alongside a piece of baby cheese served as the cover charge. All the snacks are affordable and thoughtfully chosen. The rich shiokara (salted squid) and kirikomi (fermented herring) with a distinct koji flavor are so delicious that they will make you finish glass after glass of local sake. On that day, I enjoyed lively conversations with people from all over Japan and abroad, drink in hand. If you are looking for a standing bar where you can experience warm human connections, this is the place to go.
The third spot is "Meishu Kakuuchi Center Takano," located less than a 30-second walk from Otaru Station. While it is especially recommended for those who want to gulp down a draft Sapporo Classic as soon as they arrive in Otaru, I visited to conclude my day. The juicy zangi, a Hokkaido specialty, is addictively delicious no matter how many times you eat it. The flavorful offal stew and the crisp-crusted ham cutlet are also must-try items. The selection of carefully selected Japanese sake from across the country is extensive, and basking in the aroma of local sake poured into a glass makes for an extraordinary moment. It is a great place to start your journey, as well as an ideal spot to wrap up the day.
As an extra chapter to a business trip evening, visiting Seicomart on the way back to your lodging is another delight. Browsing the wide selection on the wine shelves, picking out an intriguing bottle, and returning to your room with affordable and delicious side dishes unique to "Secoma" is a treat in itself. Enjoying your favorite drink and snacks in your room before falling asleep is a modest yet luxurious pleasure. That said, since it is a business trip, having to work the next day remains unchanged whether you drink or not. To maintain a healthy work-life balance, be sure to enjoy your drinks in moderation.
At the Otaru Showroom, we exhibit various drinkware that enhances the enjoyment of different beverages. Before going out for a drink in Otaru, please feel free to drop by.
Otaru Showroom
https://www.shokunin.com/en/showroom/otaru.html
Otaru Bine
https://www.instagram.com/otaru_bine/
Tachinomi Sakaba Ishikawa Genzo Shoten
https://www.instagram.com/bar_ishikawa_genzo_shoten/
Meishu Kakuuchi Center Takano
https://www.instagram.com/meishukaku_uchi_center_takano/
