Featured in the "Michelin Guide Hokkaido 2017" and "Gault & Millau 2021," the restaurant Mariyonnu offers delightful course meals abundant with ingredients from the Tokachi region. Here's an introduction to a delicious spot in Obihiro that is a must-visit, with reservations being essential.

A Talented Chef's Restaurant, Born from a Popular Stall at Kita no Yatai

Mariyonnu originally started as a stall in Obihiro's "Kita no Yatai" food stall village. After building a solid reputation, it reopened in 2020 as a restaurant specializing in course meals. While the restaurant has many charms, including its wine selection and ambiance, its passion for Tokachi ingredients is particularly palpable.

Exquisite aged beef, matured at Sakaeya

A single course involves numerous producers, from fresh seafood from the fishing port of Hiroo, Tokachi's southernmost town, to potatoes and tomatoes from organic-focused farmers, and Hokkaido-produced beef entrusted to a master of aging. The menu even includes information about the producers, showing the restaurant's respect for them in every detail.

The menu includes links to producers, so you can check out any ingredients that catch your eye

Even the Butter for the Bread is from Tokachi! Everything from Appetizers to the Main Course is Delicious

Among the highlights, the beef aged by the master purveyor "Sakaeya" is a particularly popular main dish. While the appetizers and fish dishes are all exquisite, the dedication to Tokachi extends even to the butter served with the bread. The fluffy, whipped-like butter infused with kombu (kelp) is simply divine.

A dish made with seasonal fish. The delicate plating is enchanting.

This is the famous homemade kombu butter, made with "Hoshikuzu Kombu" (Stardust Kelp)

Chef Yasuo Kokubo of Mariyonnu is always efficient and serious in the kitchen, but once the cooking pace slows, he returns to his friendly smile. He knows a lot about Tokachi's ingredients, interesting people, and places, so if you get a chance to talk to him, be sure to ask for his recommendations! ◎

The passion for cooking is evident in the meticulously prepared, delicate dishes, all of which are delicious and generously portioned. Watching the food being created from the open kitchen is another enjoyable part of the experience. It's amazing to see the chef produce so many complex dishes single-handedly—a true testament to his hard work.

Chef Kokubo at work in the open kitchen

The restaurant also offers an extensive drink menu, with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. You can find natural wines from Hokkaido, such as the "Sachi Rosé" from Aizawa Winery in Obihiro and a Pinot Noir from Tada Winery.

Wines are available by the glass, but ordering a bottle offers an even wider selection to enjoy

The dessert is also very satisfying

The Perfect French Restaurant for a Special Night in Obihiro

Both the table seats and the counter seats overlooking the open kitchen are exceptionally comfortable. It's a highly recommended spot for anyone who loves good food, whether for a date, a girls' night out, a gathering with friends, or even a family meal with children. This French restaurant is perfect for important dinners like the upcoming Christmas or Valentine's Day.

Mariyonnu

■Hours: 18:00–00:00 (Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun)
■Closed: Tuesdays
Mariyonnu Official Instagram