EatMe, the hospitality group behind cocktail destination Tokyo Confidential, opened its third venue in Niseko, Japan, this past December, just in time for the 2026 ski season. AóRA Restaurant opened inside high-end Chatrium Niseko hotel, a popular skiing destination on the Japanese island of Hokkaido. The restaurant serves upscale, contemporary cuisine highlighting the finest ingredients from Hokkaido.

Run by Head Chef Luiz Low, AóRA’s cuisine is inspired by Italian, French and Pacific Northwest coastal influences. With more than 25 years of experience across acclaimed kitchens in Penang, Shanghai, London and Hokkaido, Chef Luiz’s cooking is bold, expressive and deeply rooted in place.

© Aaron Jamieson

AóRA’s menus highlight local ingredients through refined culinary craft and thoughtful simplicity. The menu emphasizes clean flavors, precise techniques and a deep connection to the land, with sample dishes such as Uni crostini with garlic butter and tomato sauce on a baguette; Shio Koji black cod in green curry velouté served over lime rice and topped with micro cilantro; and wagyu sirloin with port wine jus, celeriac purée and broccolini. There are also three tasting menus available: a five-course petite, a seven-course signature; and the premium with luxurious add-ons such as caviar and truffle.

AóRA’s cuisine is complemented by a thoughtfully curated wine list showcasing renowned wineries from Hokkaido and beyond, alongside cocktails crafted with seasonal ingredients, local spirits and fresh herbs under the creative direction of general manager Tom Egerton, who has  more than 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry.

A wine pairing is available to complement the tasting menus, with a mix of Old and New World wines and a special focus on exceptional Japanese wineries; a selection of premium sake also highlights regional breweries and styles reflecting the depth and diversity of Japan’s sake tradition. Seasonal cocktails feature local spirits and fresh ingredients.

© Courtesy of Chatrium Hotel

In addition to AóRA, EatMe also recently announced a new concept for the winter/spring season at Tepache, a celebration of Mexico and all things agave. From tequila to mezcal and raicilla, Tepache boasts Hokkaido’s largest agave collection, and also showcases lesser-known Mexican beverages. A list of expertly crafted cocktails accompanies the spirit list, as well as a menu of modern Mexican cuisine including tacos, quesadillas, enchiladas and more. The group’s original Hirafu venture, Niseko Confidential, returns for its second winter season with craft cocktails, curated dining offerings and cozy house party vibes just steps from the slopes.

Chatrium Niseko hotel is close to Hangetsu Lake and Hirafu Ski Village, a short distance to the Hirafu main ski lift.