Robatayaki is a Japanese style of grilling over a charcoal hearth in which chefs pass dishes to diners on long wooden paddles across the fire pit. Robata Jinnya uses exclusively Hokkaido ingredients — Hokkaido asparagus, corn, potatoes, scallops, Iburi venison, and Tokachi beef — grilled slowly over binchotan charcoal. The atmosphere is warm and theatrical, and it is one of the most distinctly Hokkaido dining experiences in Sapporo.
Robata Jinnya in Sapporo's Susukino district is a robatayaki restaurant in the traditional mould — a central open charcoal hearth over which cooks grill ingredients, passing the finished dishes to diners across the fire on long wooden paddles. This theatrical service format, which originated in Hokkaido's fishing villages where fishermen cooked their catch over communal fires on the beach, has been refined into one of the most distinctly Japanese dining experiences available in Sapporo.
What sets Robata Jinnya apart is its commitment to sourcing exclusively from within Hokkaido. The menu changes with the seasons but typically includes large Hokkaido scallops (hotate) with butter and shoyu — caramelised in the shell over binchotan charcoal; Iburi venison from eastern Hokkaido, lean and rich with a clean gamey depth; Tokachi beef cuts; sweetcorn cooked in the husk until the kernels blister; Hokkaido asparagus in spring; and Hokkaido potato varieties roasted whole. The binchotan charcoal used for grilling burns hot and clean, imparting a subtle char aroma without bitterness.
The dining room is arranged around the central hearth, with the most coveted counter seats directly facing the fire. From these positions, the rhythm of the grill — the rotation of ingredients, the hand movements of the cook, the hiss of butter on scallop shell — is fully visible. Small plates are the format and ordering across a wide range is encouraged. Hokkaido sake from local breweries such as Otokoyama (Asahikawa) and Takasago makes an excellent accompaniment.
The restaurant is open evenings only from 17:00. Reservations are advisable on Friday and Saturday evenings when Susukino is at its busiest.
Good to know
- Known for
- Hokkaido seasonal ingredients over charcoal
- Reservations
- Recommended for weekends
Highlights
- Authentic charcoal hearth with long-paddle service
- 100% Hokkaido-sourced ingredients
- Venison, scallop, corn, and seasonal produce
- Theatrical open-fire dining atmosphere
Tips for visiting
- Counter seating around the fire pit is the most atmospheric
- Order widely — small plates allow tasting many ingredients
- Hokkaido scallops with butter and shoyu are unmissable
Accessibility
The restaurant has counter seating arranged around the central hearth and some table seating. The counter stools are fixed and at height; wheelchair access to counter seating is not feasible. Table seating may be navigable; visitors with mobility requirements should call ahead to confirm arrangements.
Frequently asked questions
What is robatayaki and how does the service work?
Robatayaki is a style of Japanese charcoal-hearth grilling in which the cook grills ingredients at a central fire pit and delivers finished items to diners on a long wooden paddle. The format originates in the communal fires of Hokkaido fishing villages and creates an interactive, theatrical dining atmosphere.
What Hokkaido-specific ingredients should visitors prioritise at Robata Jinnya?
Hokkaido scallop with butter and shoyu is the signature item — the shell serves as the cooking vessel and concentrates the flavours beautifully. Iburi venison is a rare and excellent Hokkaido protein. Sweetcorn and asparagus in season are also standout preparations.
Is Robata Jinnya good for groups?
Yes. The small-plate sharing format is well suited to groups of three to eight people, allowing a wide range of ingredients to be ordered and shared. Larger groups should reserve in advance.
How does the price per person typically work at Robata Jinnya?
With drinks, most diners spend between ¥3,000 and ¥4,500 per person ordering widely from the small-plate menu. A minimal order of three or four items could come in under ¥2,000; more is easily spent when trying the full range of Hokkaido ingredients.
Is there an English menu at Robata Jinnya?
An English menu with descriptions is typically available. Robatayaki restaurants in Susukino are accustomed to international guests; pointing to items and asking staff for recommendations in simple English is usually sufficient to navigate the menu.