Creative Bar Maru — Restaurant in Hokuto

This was a very unique Izakaya, within 5 minutes walk ftom shin hakodate hokuto station.

We walked in on Friday night at about 6 pm, and there was no queue.

There was no English menu in this Izakaya.

We ordered a beer (650 yen), potato salad (773 yen), and tempura (437 yen). Serving within 10 minutes upon ordering.

For potato salad, it was very special, although it looked simple. We needed to put a bit of butter and sauce with squid & fish and eat together with the tasty potato. Then, before finish chewing, a sip of beer. Wow. Heavenly good. 5 stars

For tempura, it was all vegetables. But the cherry tomato, the onion, and all vegetables were so juicy, soft, and addictive with another sip of beer. Wow. 5 stars

Total bill below 2000 yen. Great ambience, cold weather 0 Celsius during rainy night. What's a...

True to its name, the dishes are creative. I ordered the Grilled Beef, expecting a hot dish, but was served a chilled, perfectly medium-rare beef, sliced thinly—an unexpectedly delightful preparation that really highlighted the beef’s texture.

The potato salad was another standout, with a raw egg yolk nestled on top, lending a rich creaminess that elevated the dish. We also tried the Ochazuke, a simple yet satisfying bowl with rice, dashi tea broth, and salmon flakes—a comforting and well-balanced choice. Other dishes were executed well and it was a fulfilling dinner.

The restaurant staff informed us that waiting time may take approximately 30 minutes as the Izakaya is only managed by 2 staff. However, each dish was crafted with care and distinct flavours, making it...

I was so excited after having tried some of the offerings here at Creative Maru. The chef had this silent confidence that shone through in his dishes. I had the marinated squid, crab croquette, and grilled duck with leek and soba noodles. The duck had this complexity which was mind blowing, slight gaminess was balanced by the leek and the noodles and soup, so comforting. The marinated squid took some getting used too, and I was prewar ed by the front of house lady, but I...