Torisei

The Golden Standard of Furano Comfort Food

If you ask a Furano local where to go for a celebratory feast or a casual Friday night, Torisei is usually the first name mentioned. This isn't your average fried chicken shop; it is a Hokkaido institution that treats poultry with the kind of respect usually reserved for fine wagyu. The atmosphere is warm, loud, and unpretentious, featuring a mix of counter seating for solo diners and low tables for larger groups.

The magic of Torisei lies in its simplicity. While the menu offers a variety of izakaya staples, the focus remains laser-beamed on high-quality chicken prepared in two distinct ways: Karaage (fried) and Hamayaki (grilled). Whether you are stopping in for a quick takeout box or settling in for a long night of Sapporo Classic beer, the consistency of the flavors is what keeps this shop perpetually packed.

The Top 4 Must-Order Dishes

The Signature Fried Chicken Leg (Wakadori no Karaage): This is the undisputed king of the menu. Unlike western fried chicken, Torisei’s version features a thin, ultra-crispy skin that shatters upon impact, revealing incredibly juicy meat underneath. It is seasoned simply to let the natural flavor of the Hokkaido-sourced chicken shine through.

Charcoal-Grilled "Shinshu" Skewers: You haven't truly experienced Torisei until you've tried their yakitori. The Mimi (chicken ear/cartilage) and Negima (chicken and leek) are fanned over high-heat charcoal, giving them a distinct smoky depth that gas grills simply cannot replicate. Each skewer is glazed with a secret tare (sauce) that is the perfect balance of sweet and salty.

Torisei Chicken Rice: Often overlooked in favor of the meat, this rice dish is the ultimate "closer" for your meal. Cooked with chicken stock and small bits of savory poultry, it acts as a comforting, umami-rich base that ties the entire dining experience together.

For those who prefer the deep, charred aroma of the binchotan grill over the deep fryer, the Grilled Chicken Set is a revelation. This set features a generous portion of bone-in chicken leg, marinated in a proprietary savory sauce and grilled until the skin achieves a crackling, caramelized finish while the meat remains incredibly tender. It is served alongside a bowl of steaming Hokkaido rice, a side of crisp cabbage, and a delicate soup that cleanses the palate between smoky bites.

What Makes Torisei Special?

What sets Torisei apart is its deep-rooted history in the community. It’s a place where the barrier between tourist and local disappears; everyone is there for the same thing. The "open kitchen" concept allows you to watch the chefs work the grill with incredible speed, providing a bit of dinner theater to go with your meal. It’s an authentic slice of Japanese life that feels earned, not manufactured.

An interesting tip for visitors: Torisei is immensely popular for "takeout parties." If you find the restaurant fully booked—which happens often during peak ski season—do as the locals do and order a platter to take back to your lodge. There is something uniquely satisfying about opening a warm box of Torisei chicken while the snow falls outside your window.