Le Gaulois Furano
Le Gaulois Furano: A Culinary Destination in Hokkaido
Le Gaulois Furano is a prestigious fine dining establishment located in the heart of Hokkaido, renowned for its commitment to the art of “creation” – a philosophy deeply inspired by the celebrated screenwriter So Kuramoto, whose influence shapes the restaurant’s approach to food and culture. Under the guidance of Chef Kenichi Otsuka, the restaurant has gained a reputation for championing the rich, diverse flavors of Hokkaido’s regional cuisine. Chef Otsuka, who previously helmed Le Gaulois in Tokyo’s Omotesando district, brings his culinary mastery and deep respect for local ingredients to the forefront at Le Gaulois Furano, ensuring an authentic and unforgettable dining experience.
The restaurant prides itself on sourcing the freshest, seasonal produce from the finest local suppliers, embracing the natural bounty that Hokkaido offers. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted to reflect the beauty and essence of the region, from the lush farmlands to the surrounding seas. Le Gaulois Furano provides a gastronomic journey where the artistry of haute cuisine is seamlessly combined with the purity and freshness of local ingredients, making it an essential destination for food connoisseurs and travelers seeking to explore the natural splendor and culinary heritage of Furano.
Signature Menu Offerings
Le Gaulois Furano offers a refined menu that showcases the seasonal harvest of Hokkaido. Both lunch and dinner courses emphasize a connection to the land and sea, with Chef Otsuka carefully selecting the best ingredients available, ensuring each dish harmonizes with the changing seasons. The restaurant’s courses are designed to celebrate the natural flavors of Hokkaido, elevating them through sophisticated preparation and presentation.
Lunch Course
- A multi-course lunch centered around fresh, locally sourced ingredients from Hokkaido’s farms, forests, and waters. Each course offers a balance of taste, texture, and visual appeal, providing diners with an exquisite midday experience. Reservation required.
Price: ¥5,300 per person (including service charge and consumption tax)
Hokkaido Dinner Course
- The dinner course is a more elaborate offering, featuring a seasonal selection of dishes curated by Chef Otsuka. Guests can expect innovative interpretations of traditional Hokkaido flavors, with a focus on showcasing premium ingredients such as locally caught seafood, organic vegetables, and meats raised in the region. Reservation required.
Price: ¥15,500 per person (including service charge and consumption tax)
Dining Information and Atmosphere
Le Gaulois Furano provides an intimate dining atmosphere with a focus on personalized service. The restaurant accommodates up to 35 guests at a time, ensuring that each diner receives attentive and tailored service. The minimalist yet elegant interior creates a serene environment that complements the exquisite food, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the dining experience.
- Lunch Hours: 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM (Last order: 1:30 PM)
- Dinner Hours: 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM (Last order: 7:30 PM)
- Seating Capacity: 35 seats
The restaurant welcomes children aged 6 and above, making it an inclusive space for families, though no special children’s menu or child seats are available. Guests are advised to make reservations well in advance, as the restaurant often reaches full capacity, especially during peak seasons when Furano is bustling with tourists. It’s not uncommon for reservations to be made months ahead, so prospective diners are encouraged to plan accordingly.
Reservation and Payment Details
Making a reservation at Le Gaulois Furano is essential, given its limited seating and high demand. Both lunch and dinner require prior booking, with the restaurant’s reservation line open during business hours.
- Phone Reservations: 0167-22-1123 (Available from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM on business days – in Japanese)
- Payment Options: The restaurant accepts a variety of credit cards, including VISA, MasterCard, JCB, AMEX, SEIBU PRINCE CLUB Card Saison, and others. A service charge of 10% is applied to all transactions.
Age Restrictions and Policies
While Le Gaulois Furano is committed to offering a refined dining experience, it is equally dedicated to maintaining a welcoming environment. Children are permitted to dine, provided they are at least 6 years old. However, due to the focus on fine dining, the restaurant does not offer a separate children’s menu or provide child seating options. Guests should consider this when planning a visit with younger family members.
Operating Hours, Closures, and Special Scheduling
Le Gaulois Furano operates with a strict schedule to maintain the highest standards of service and food quality. The restaurant is typically closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, although there are exceptions when holidays fall on these days. In such cases, alternative closure dates are announced in advance.
- Regular Holidays: Monday and Tuesday
Note: The restaurant may adjust its schedule to accommodate holidays.
Location and Accessibility
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Furano, Le Gaulois Furano is conveniently located near the New Furano Prince Hotel, making it an ideal dining choice for those staying in the area. The restaurant is approximately a 3-minute walk from the hotel, offering easy access for both local and international travelers. Guests can enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of Furano, famous for its rolling lavender fields and serene rural charm, while indulging in the culinary excellence that Le Gaulois Furano provides.
- Address: Nakagoryo, Furano, Hokkaido 076-0016
- Location: A 3-minute walk from the New Furano Prince Hotel in Furano City, Hokkaido.
Conclusion
Le Gaulois Furano is more than just a restaurant – it’s a tribute to the rich cultural and culinary landscape of Hokkaido. With Chef Kenichi Otsuka at the helm, the restaurant continues to celebrate the region’s abundant produce, delivering an unparalleled dining experience that fuses French culinary techniques with the unique flavors of Hokkaido. For travelers and locals alike, a visit to Le Gaulois Furano is a journey through the artistry of food, deeply rooted in the natural beauty of one of Japan’s most captivating regions.