15 years of Seafood Excellence
Ezo Seafoods Oyster Bar (2009-2022)
Our journey began in 2009 as an oyster bar with a mission to bring Niseko’s visitors the finest seafood that Hokkaido has to offer. Starting with a simple menu of freshly shucked oysters, King Crab, and Soy Rockfish, we relied on Keiko’s culinary skills in the kitchen and my commitment to ensuring that everything we served was pristinely fresh.
I made daily trips to the Sapporo Seafood Markets to ensure our customers enjoyed the freshest and most seasonal seafood. After years of hard work, passion, and the support of loyal customers from around the world, Ezo Seafoods Oyster Bar grew into a Niseko institution.
Ezo Seafoods Summer – Izu Peninsula
In 2015, we expanded to the Izu Peninsula, opening an oceanfront restaurant overlooking Suruga Bay. Under the concept of "Pasta, Paella & Craft Beer," we created a Mediterranean-inspired menu that features the area’s abundant local fish and shellfish. Operating from June through September, Ezo Seafoods Summer has built a strong following among locals who appreciate fresh, seasonal flavors by the sea.
"Team Ezo" Beach Cleaning Group
To address the increasing problem of ocean litter in Izu, we founded “Team Ezo” with the support of local community members and some of our restaurant guests. Today, a group of around 10 volunteers gathers twice a month to clean the local coastline. Over eight years, our efforts have been recognized for making a positive impact in reducing shoreline waste.
Ezo Seafoods Fresh
After Covid, we reevaluated Niseko’s dining scene and its evolving needs. We envisioned a high-quality retail and takeout operation, aiming to offer guests exceptional seafood without the need for advance reservations.
EZO FRESH was born to provide great food experiences that allow customers to entertain and socialize in the comfort of their own accommodations. We also obtained a bottle shop license, allowing us to offer our restaurant wine selection at retail prices.
James Gallagher & Keiko Takaoka Gallagher, Co-Owners
Ezo Seafoods Fresh and Ezo Seafoods Summer are operated by The Katori Company.