Scenic Hokkaido landscape

Our Story

From Our Family to Yours

The Beginning

When we opened Hokkaido in 2005, we weren't simply starting a restaurant. We were building a dream. As immigrants finding our place in Johannesburg, we hoped to create something that felt like home to us, and could become home to others, too. A place where the flavours of our Chinese heritage and the Japanese traditions we admired could come together in one warm, welcoming space.

Our Name

We chose the name Hokkaido in honour of the northern Japanese island known for its purity of ingredients, fresh seafood, and hot springs. That spirit of simplicity, honesty, and warmth has guided us from the very beginning. We've always believed that great food should be generous, heartfelt, and accessible to everyone.

More Than a Restaurant

Over the years, Hokkaido has become more than a restaurant. It has grown into a gathering place where families share traditions, laugh together, and leave with bellies full of noodles and sushi.

The Heart of Connection

Hokkaido is a celebration of connection: Chinese roots, Japanese inspiration, and South African community coming together under one roof. A space fuelled by dreams, shaped by family, and dedicated to serving food that brings people closer.

From our family to yours,

Welcome to Hokkaido.