EatMe, the hospitality group behind cocktail destination Tokyo Confidential, opened its third venue in Niseko, Japan, in December, just ahead of the 2026 ski season. AóRA Restaurant now operates inside the upscale Chatrium Niseko hotel, a popular destination on Hokkaido for skiers and winter travelers. The restaurant focuses on contemporary, refined cuisine that highlights the best seasonal ingredients sourced from Hokkaido.
Led by Head Chef Luiz Low, AóRA blends influences from Italian and French culinary traditions with Pacific Northwest coastal flavors. Chef Luiz brings more than 25 years of experience from notable kitchens across Penang, Shanghai, London and Hokkaido, producing bold, expressive dishes that remain closely tied to place and seasonality.
© Aaron Jamieson
AóRA’s menu emphasizes clean flavors, precise technique and thoughtful simplicity, showcasing Hokkaido produce and seafood. Sample dishes include Uni crostini with garlic butter and tomato sauce on baguette; Shio Koji black cod in a green curry velouté served over lime rice topped with micro cilantro; and wagyu sirloin with port wine jus, celeriac purée and broccolini. Diners can choose from three tasting menus: a five-course petite, a seven-course signature, and a premium option featuring optional luxurious add-ons like caviar and truffle.
The food program is paired with a carefully curated wine list that highlights both local Hokkaido wineries and notable producers from around the world. Under the creative direction of general manager Tom Egerton, who brings more than 20 years in hospitality, the beverage program also includes seasonal cocktails made with local spirits and fresh herbs.
Wine pairings are offered to accompany the tasting menus, presenting a balance of Old and New World selections and a special focus on exceptional Japanese wineries. A premium sake selection further showcases regional breweries and styles, reflecting Japan’s varied sake traditions. Seasonal cocktails use local ingredients and house-crafted techniques to complement the culinary menu.
© Courtesy of Chatrium Hotel
Beyond AóRA, EatMe has introduced a seasonal concept called Tepache, celebrating Mexican agave culture during the winter and spring months. Tepache features Hokkaido’s largest agave spirits collection, including tequila, mezcal and raicilla, plus lesser-known Mexican spirits. The menu pairs a wide spirit selection with expertly crafted cocktails and modern Mexican dishes such as tacos, quesadillas and enchiladas.
EatMe’s first Hirafu project, Niseko Confidential, returns for its second winter season, offering craft cocktails, curated dining and a warm, house-party atmosphere just steps from the slopes.
Chatrium Niseko is conveniently located near Hangetsu Lake and the Hirafu Ski Village, within easy reach of the Hirafu main ski lift, making AóRA and the hotel an attractive option for visitors to the area.