Nikka Rita — Restaurant in Otaru

Nikka Bar Rita is a proverbial "hidden gem" in Otaru. A stone's throw from the canal, this warm, cozy (yet very classy) bar is tucked away down a passageway off of the road. The bartenders are wonderful, and the service fantastic. As you might expect from a Nikka establishment, a vast selection of whisky is available, as well as some light snacks. My only complaint is that I came here on my last night in Hokkaido - I wish that I could have...

Amazing intimate atmosphere and a great chance to taste Nikka whiskies you can get almost nowhere else, since it’s so close to the original Yoichi Nikka distillery. In the bar, you’re transported back to what feels like the 1920s in the golden days of Otaru. They also have iPads for ordering, which makes it super easy as someone who doesn’t speak any Japanese. A 10/10 lowkey...

A quaint bar nested within Otaru's food district. Very clean, immaculate, and well kept. While the types of drams available may not be the widest at this point due to overconsumption of whisky, Mr. Yamaguchi was kind enough to allow me access to some of his... off the menu drams.

I'll never forget your lesson on whisky geography, and your...