After attending the opening party at La Villa Lupicia last weekend I think I can safely say it will be amongst my favourite restaurants in Niseko yet again this winter.
The gorgeous building offers lofty ceilings and expansive picture windows, the service is always impeccable, and the food is heavenly.
Deep-fried maruemon oysters served with black vinegar sauce. You had to be quick to get a picture, let alone an oyster!
As a French-fusion style bistro, Lupicia offers a set menu for both lunch and dinner, with the option of an oyster menu at the bar. The local oysters were available for sample on opening night, and don’t judge me when I tell you that I lingered by that table for quite a few hours. These large, juicy oysters will meet your every expectation of Hokkaido’s world-famous seafood.
My other favourites included the duck meat pie, sautéed abalone, and steamed kinki rockfish, all of which are included on the mouthwatering menu.
Crossbred Hokkaido duck served with grilled leek, and artfully-placed glass of sparkling
One of the things I adore about Lupicia is that the exquisite experience extends beyond the meal. The desserts were a masterpiece in themselves, and included crème caramel, matcha cream sponge with strawberries, and some decadent kind of caramel meringue tart cake thing, which I ate three of. For a large portion of the night the line at the dessert section was longer than the one at the bar, which I think is a true testimony to excellence! Luckily for you, the lunch menu includes the option of adding a dessert buffet.
The drinks menu is another delight, with a wide selection of carefully selected wines and a variety of other delectable concoctions. I was quite partial to the chilled Black Tea with Champagne Rosé, which was a perfect accompiament to my chestnut and persimmon tart. (I was one of the ones causing a back up in the dessert line).
Delicious pastries at the Lupicia Boutique
If you are at Lupicia during business hours you must visit the charming boutique behind the restaurant, which sells gourmet condiments, melt-in-your-mouth pastries, and an amazing array of loose-leaf tea. My favourite is a fragrant blend known as Caramel and Rum- I am not sure if it really contains rum, but the label is in Japanese so I think I am off the hook.
Barely five minutes drive from downtown Hirafu, La Villa Lupicia is a great experience all-round, and the boutique is my favourite place in town to visit when I just need to buy something. Enjoy your browsing and your dessert buffet and give my regards to the oysters!