Discover Obihiro’s Best Butadon: 14 Must-Try Pork Bowl Restaurants in Tokachi

“Aren’t all pork bowls kind of the same?” — If you’ve ever thought that, think again. In Obihiro, butadon isn’t just another rice bowl—it’s a culinary experience. Thick slices of grilled pork glazed in sweet and savory sauces, each crafted with care and tradition unique to the shop. From the cut of meat to the grilling method, the sauce, and even the plating—each restaurant serves up its own version of perfection.

With so many takes on this iconic dish, we’ve handpicked 14 standout spots—favorites among locals and visitors alike. Every one of them is worth a stop on your foodie journey through Tokachi!

1 Butadon no Pancho – The Original Butadon Legend

Butadon no Pancho is the first name that comes to mind when talking about butadon in Obihiro.

It’s known as the birthplace of butadon, founded back in 1933. For over 90 years, it has been loved for its unchanged flavor that continues to win hearts to this day.

Located just a short walk from Obihiro Station, this historic spot attracts lines of customers daily—from locals to travelers. The shop’s name, “Pancho,” was given by the original proprietress, “Ume-san,” and interestingly, their menu ranks sizes as Ume > Take > Matsu, with “Ume” being the top tier.

Thick slices of pork loin are slowly grilled over charcoal, leaving beautiful sear marks. The combination of tender meat and their secret sweet-and-savory sauce over rice is the definition of classic butadon perfection.

【INFORMATION】

■ Butadon no Pancho (The Original)

• Address: 11-19, Nishi 1-jou Minami 11-chome, Obihiro City, Hokkaido (MAP)
• Phone: 0155-22-1974
• Hours: 11:00–19:00
• Closed: Mondays, 1st & 3rd Tuesdays (Open on holidays, closed the next day if so)
• Parking: None

2 Butadon no Tsuruhashi

Butadon no Tsuruhashi is a long-standing shop that has maintained the same rich flavor for over 80 years—one of the true classics of Obihiro.

Its most striking feature is the visual impact: the pork, glazed with an intensely dark sauce, appears almost black to the first-time visitor.

They use tender pork loin, cooked slowly in lard using a thick iron pan. What makes it special is their use of two distinct secret sauces. The first sauce is used during cooking, while a second is brushed on at the finish—both adjusted based on the doneness and meat juices.

Despite its bold appearance, the flavor is delicately balanced. Sweetness, richness, and charred aroma blend harmoniously for a truly original taste. The accompanying nameko mushroom miso soup is also a must-try, making the set meal even more enjoyable.

【INFORMATION】

■ Butadon no Tsuruhashi

• Address: 4-1, Hakurindai Higashi, Obihiro, Hokkaido (MAP)
• Phone: 0155-34-1155
• Hours: 11:00–15:00, 17:00–20:00
• Closed: Mondays (If a holiday, closed the following day)
• Parking: Available / 12 spaces

3 Butadon no Tonta – Expertly Prepared Pork from a Former Butcher

Butadon no Tonta is a top contender in popularity, rivaling even long-established shops.

The founder, formerly in the meat industry, opened the restaurant with the mission of delivering delicious butadon to local residents.

Using premium Tokachi pork, each slice is hand-cut and carefully trimmed of excess fat and sinew, resulting in surprisingly tender and easy-to-eat meat. You can also choose your preferred cut—loin, belly, or fillet.

Though located a bit farther from Obihiro Station, the shop has gained national attention—earning recognition from Tabelog’s Best Restaurants in Hokkaido and a Michelin Bib Gourmand listing.

Even with miso soup and pickles included, prices start at just ¥960, making it incredibly cost-effective—a big reason for its loyal local following.

Lines often form during lunch hours, so visiting just before opening is your best bet.

【INFORMATION】

■ Butadon no Tonta

• Address: 2-10-17, Higashi 10-jou Minami, Obihiro City, Hokkaido (MAP)
• Phone: 0155-24-4358
• Hours: 11:00–18:00 (Last Order)
• Closed: Year-end & New Year holidays (Other unscheduled holidays may apply)
• Parking: Available / 21 spaces

4 Butagichi Obihiro Main Store – Butadon by a Trusted Meat Supplier

Butagichi is operated by a reputable meat processing company recognized nationwide. They grill select Rusutsu pork over charcoal, delivering rich aroma and flavor.

Each portion of meat is vacuum-sealed and opened only before cooking, ensuring top-notch freshness and hygiene.

You can choose from loin, belly, fillet, or mix, with customizable toppings like kimchi and raw egg yolk.

Featured in the media and with branches in Tokyo (Ikebukuro), Butagichi is growing rapidly nationwide.

【INFORMATION】

■ Butagichi Obihiro Main Store

• Address: 20-1, Odori Minami 25-chome, Obihiro City (MAP)
• Phone: 0155-26-4129
• Hours: 11:00–20:00
• Closed: Open year-round (except New Year holidays)
• Parking: Available / 15 spaces

5 Hanatokachi – Hokkaido Ingredients Elevated with Local Flair

Hanatokachi serves pork from “Kamikomi Buta,” a rare breed found in just 3% of pigs—known for its juiciness and deep flavor.

The rice is “Fukkurinko” from Bibai City, milled in-house every 2–3 days for peak freshness.

Their high-heat grill delivers a result akin to charcoal-grilled meat, while toppings like Tokachi-grown black soybeans and horseradish add sophisticated Japanese notes.

Their famous “Tokachi Hitsumabushi” offers a unique twist on traditional butadon.

【INFORMATION】

■ Hanatokachi

• Address: 1F Yoshimi Building, Odori Minami 12-chome, Obihiro (MAP)
• Phone: 0155-21-3680
• Hours: 11:00–15:00 / 18:00–19:00 (weekdays), 11:00–19:00 (weekends)
• Closed: Tuesdays (open on public holidays)
• Parking: Available / 5 spaces

6 Butahage Main Store – 80-Year Sauce Recipe Served in Stationfront Style

Connected to JR Obihiro Station, this shop was founded in 2000 by the famous local restaurant Hageten.

Open from 9 a.m., it’s perfect for travelers and office workers alike.

Their secret sauce has been carefully simmered and passed down for over 80 years.

A peppery kick makes the flavor pop, and extra sauce and seasoning are available at each table.

Takeout is available, making it convenient for quick meals or souvenirs.

【INFORMATION】

■ Butadon no Butahage – Obihiro Main Store

• Address: ESTA West Bldg, 2-12-9 Nishi, JR Obihiro Station (MAP)
• Phone: 0155-24-9822
• Hours: 9:00–19:40 (Last Order 19:15)
• Closed: 3rd Wednesday of each month (per ESTA schedule)
• Parking: ESTA parking available (30 min free for < ¥2,000, 1 hr free for ≥ ¥2,000)

7 Butadon no Kashiwa – Stylish Yet Cozy Pork Bowl Spot Near Obihiro Racecourse

Located near the Obihiro Racecourse, Butadon no Kashiwa is a stylish, café-like restaurant that sets itself apart from traditional pork bowl eateries.

The wood-themed, natural interior offers a warm atmosphere that’s welcoming even to solo female diners. From the moment you step in, you can tell it’s something different.

One highlight is their use of “Inakibi rice”—a chewy millet blend with a slightly sweet finish, offering a healthy and unique texture.

Choose from loin, belly, or shoulder cuts—or go for the “three-cut combo” (+¥100) to enjoy all three in one dish. It’s a great way to discover your personal favorite.

Portion sizes are clearly indicated, from small to extra-large, letting you pick the perfect volume.

They also serve sake and bottled beer in the evening, allowing you to enjoy a rich pork bowl with drinks.

【INFORMATION】

■ Butadon no Kashiwa

• Address: 10-3, Nishi 12-jou Minami, Obihiro City (MAP)
• Phone: 0155-66-4711
• Hours: 11:00–20:00
• Closed: Wednesdays (subject to change on holidays, Obon, etc.)
• Parking: Available / 15 spaces

8 Butadon no Buta-hachi – Charcoal-Grilled Pork Bowl Just 3 Minutes from Obihiro Station

Just a 3-minute walk from Obihiro Station, Buta-hachi is known for its great access and quirky personality.

The same flavors are popular in their ekiben (train station bento), but at the physical location, you can enjoy it hot and in larger portions.

Menus feature unique size names like “Ichiro” and “Jiro,” and the wall displays photo guides to help you choose the right portion. The showstopper “Mega Butadon” equals 6 regular servings—perfect for sharing with 3–4 people.

The owner is warm and friendly, making even first-time visitors feel like regulars. This cozy vibe keeps customers coming back for more.

Charcoal-grilled pork adds irresistible smokiness, while the sweet-savory sauce blends beautifully with rice. Open late, with drink sets and side dishes available—ideal for a casual night out nearby.

【INFORMATION】

■ Butadon no Buta-hachi

• Address: 11-2, Nishi 1-jou Minami, Obihiro City (MAP)
• Phone: 0155-29-0161
• Hours:
  Apr 25 – Nov 10: 10:30–22:00 /
  Nov 11 – Apr 24: 11:00–22:00
• Closed: None
• Parking: Paid parking nearby (¥100 discount with parking ticket)

9 Ippin Butadon – A Pork Bowl Crafted by Sauce Experts

“Ippin Butadon” is run by the creators of the famous “Sorachi Sauce” commercials, familiar to Hokkaido locals. Since opening in Obihiro in 2001, the chain has expanded to Sapporo and beyond.

As sauce specialists, their pork bowls are exceptional. You can customize the amount of rice, sauce, and pork—right down to the thickness of each slice—for a truly personal bowl.

They use 100% Hokkaido pork, grilled over charcoal and slathered in their house-made sauce. For just ¥320 extra, you can turn your meal into a set with miso soup, pickles, and either a salad or chilled tofu.

The cheerful and attentive staff keep the dining atmosphere energetic and smooth. Desserts are also available, perfect for those who like to end a meal on a sweet note.

【INFORMATION】

■ Ippin Butadon Obihiro Main Store

• Address: 3-5, Nishi 21-jou Minami, Obihiro City (MAP)
• Phone: 0155-41-1789
• Hours: 11:00–21:00
• Closed: None
• Parking: Available / 25 spaces

10 Butanoya – A New Star Born from the Roots of Butaichi

Opened on the former site of the famous Butaichi, Butanoya is a pork bowl specialty restaurant run by Mr. Nishimoto, the former manager of the previous shop.

Its bright yellow sign stands out from the street. Inside, the space features counter and table seating. The menu includes standard, premium loin, belly, and mix pork bowls. You can choose from “Chibi” (3 slices) to “Deka” (12 slices), with free large rice portions.

The welcoming and cheerful staff create a friendly, comfortable atmosphere right from the moment you step in.

We ordered the standard “Mix” (3 slices each of loin and belly) for ¥1,190. It arrived within 5 minutes, steaming and aromatic.

The charcoal-grilled aroma paired with sweet-savory sauce is absolutely mouthwatering. Each bite of the tender, easy-to-chew pork melts in your mouth, making even a large portion of rice disappear quickly with satisfaction.

【INFORMATION】

■ Butanoya

• Address: 1-2, Nishi 8-jou Minami 11, Obihiro City (MAP)
• Phone: 0155-65-0801
• Hours: 11:00–19:00
• Closed: Wednesdays
• Parking: Available / 12 spaces

11 Tonbi – Grandma’s Secret Sauce and a Homemade Grill

Tonbi may look like a simple, small-town pork bowl shop—but its humble appearance hides a deeply satisfying, handcrafted experience.

The secret lies in the sauce, handed down from the owner’s grandmother, and the custom-built grill.

The owner, whose family once ran a cement business, built the grill himself using fireproof cement. He uses locally sourced oak charcoal to grill each slice of pork slowly and carefully, dipping the meat into the sauce several times during the process to infuse it fully with sweet-savory flavor and smoky aroma.

The rice, a Hokkaido-grown variety called “Oborozuki,” has a subtle sweetness and stickiness that perfectly complements the bold flavor of the pork.

We tried the Mix Bowl (loin and belly) for ¥1,100—it completely exceeded expectations. The meat was tender, the sauce was well balanced, and before we knew it, the bowl was empty. We were already thinking about returning the next day to try a different cut!

【INFORMATION】

■ Tonbi

• Address: 8-1, Nishi 1-jou Minami 24, Obihiro City (MAP)
• Phone: 0155-26-7311
• Hours: 11:00–14:30, 17:30–20:00
• Closed: Tuesdays and Wednesdays (open on holidays)
• Parking: Available / 4 spaces

12 Kikuchiya – Hidden Gem Inside the Tokachimura Complex

Located next to the Obihiro Racetrack inside Tokachimura, Kikuchiya is a lesser-known gem offering delicious charcoal-grilled pork bowls.

Despite its humble setup, the quality here is top-tier. Their pork bowls combine tender cuts of both loin and belly, grilled over charcoal until crisp outside and meltingly soft inside—so soft, you’ll wonder how it’s done.

The sauce leans slightly toward the savory side and pairs perfectly with beer. Whether you’re grabbing a bite between horse races or relaxing with a full meal, Kikuchiya’s pork bowls hit the spot.

You’ll also find spice options like sansho and garlic chili powder for flavor shifts, and there are plenty of a la carte options too, making it perfect for groups.

【INFORMATION】

■ Kikuchiya

• Address: 13-8, Nishi 13-jou Minami, Obihiro (Inside Tokachimura at Obihiro Racetrack) (MAP)
• Phone: 090-5989-6674
• Hours: 11:00–21:00 on race days / 11:00–14:30 on non-race days
• Closed: Wednesdays and Thursdays (irregular holidays possible)
• Parking: Available / 400 spaces

13 Butaya – A Perfect Balance of Char, Sweetness, and Umami

Butaya delivers the full trio: char, sweetness, and umami in every bite.

You might be surprised to see it share the spotlight with Asahikawa-style ramen, but just one bite of their pork bowl is enough to make you a believer.

Made with premium Tokachi pork, diners can choose between loin and belly, or opt for both in the deluxe version. The meat is slowly grilled over an infrared grill, then brushed with a rich, thick sauce that gives it a deep, smoky aroma reminiscent of charcoal grilling.

The deluxe belly pork bowl (¥1,250) was especially memorable—its fatty cuts burst with sweet flavor and juicy richness in every chew.

You’ll find yourself tempted to try the ramen next time, thanks to the dual menu appeal of bowls and noodles.

A pork bowl so delicious we can confidently say—don’t leave Obihiro without trying this place. It’s no exaggeration to call it a hidden gem.

【INFORMATION】

■ Butadon-dokoro Butaya

• Address: 1-21, Nishi 23-jou Minami, Obihiro (MAP)
• Phone: 0155-37-3130
• Hours: 11:00–15:00
• Closed: Mondays
• Parking: Available / 9 spaces

14 Himawari – A Pork Bowl Born of Precision and Patience

Located in the food court of Aeon Obihiro, Himawari offers an unexpectedly high-quality pork bowl despite the casual setting.

The star is their specially aged pork loin, matured for 10 days in near-freezing conditions to concentrate umami while retaining a moist, tender texture.

Each slice is 7mm thick—just the right balance of bite and tenderness. Their sauce melds beautifully with the meat, offering deep and comforting flavors from the very first taste.

In addition to their signature bowl, diners can enjoy hearty sides like pork miso soup and grilled pork plates.

You can fully customize your set depending on your appetite or mood, adding great flexibility to the experience.

Himawari’s pork bowl isn’t flashy—but it’s precise, hearty, and comforting. Perfect for busy days when you still want something truly satisfying.

【INFORMATION】

■ Tokachi Butadon Himawari

• Address: Aeon Obihiro, 1F Food Court, Nishi 4-jou Minami 20, Obihiro (MAP)
• Phone: 0155-66-6351
• Hours: 11:00–21:00
• Closed: Irregular holidays
• Parking: Available (Aeon parking lot)

The History Behind Butadon—How Pork Bowls Became an Obihiro Icon

Obihiro’s beloved dish, butadon (pork rice bowl), has a deep-rooted history spanning nearly 140 years.

It all began in 1884, when Benzo Yoda and other early settlers brought four pigs to Tokachi.

At the time, pork was not widely consumed in Japan, but over time, pig farming spread and pork became a staple in Obihiro households.

By the 1920s, pork had become a regular part of the local diet.

In fact, a 1933 report noted that pork ranked first in annual meat consumption among Obihiro residents.

Amid this pork boom, butadon was born—a simple yet satisfying meal: grilled pork glazed in sweet-savory sauce served over rice.

The pork is typically grilled over charcoal, adding a smoky aroma that pairs perfectly with the tare sauce. The result is a dish that’s irresistibly delicious and comforting.

Today, butadon is served not just in specialty restaurants but also in diners and cafes—it’s truly woven into Obihiro’s daily life.

If you visit Obihiro, don’t miss the chance to try this uniquely local take on pork bowls.

Each bowl is filled with history and the heartfelt dedication of the people who perfected it over generations.