小樽あかり鮨 — Restaurant in Otaru

If you’re looking for omakase sushi experience at a relatively affordable price in Otaru, this is your place to go.

Just to manage expectation, this sushi bar just recently opened in January 2025 and run by a young husband and wife team only and no one else, so don’t expect extremely elaborate dishes up to the level of Michelin star sushi chef. That means they can also charge relatively affordable price for an omakase nigiri sushi course compared to other places, and have to rely on quality ingredients in producing their sushi.

That being said, the quality of the seafood used for the sushi is amazing, and Chef Ishikawa used Hokkaido specialty seafood to produce one of the best sushi experience I had in my Hokkaido trip.

They speak limited English but not shy to engage in a conversation thanks to the technology of the translator app.

As mentioned earlier it’s a relatively young establishment so some finnese issue on the rice pressing but ultimately they show potential. Looking forward to return here on my next visit to Hokkaido to see their...

Incredible experience, an absolute must try for anyone visiting Otaru. The omakase course was incredible, and for a very reasonable price. Specifically the mackerel, scallops, and fatty tuna blew me away. Even got to try hairy crab as apart of the course which I have been dying to try. The chef and his wife were very kind, no worries if you don't speak Japanese, the service you will get is absolutely top tier and heartwarming. The interior has the classic wooden countertops, and their glassware was beautiful, a perfect representation of Otaru. My only regret is that I did not try the Akari course, which has appetizers that looked incredible, and sashimi. I hope to come...

Absolutely delicious sushi! It was the first time I had omakase. I got there an hour before closing time and there were luckily enough spaces left. Everything was top notch, especially the chūtoro and uni which are now my favourite. The chef, Ishikawa-san, and his wife were very friendly. They really love what they are doing and it shows! I had a great time talking to them and the other customers. I was actually feeling quite down the day I went there after a very long flight, but the atmosphere and the food were so great that my mood improved right away. It was a perfect start to my journey in Japan! I will definitely return next time I come...