Tepache agave bar to open in Niseko
Niseko Confidential in Japan has returned for its winter season, alongside a new neighbouring bar, Tepache.
Both bars are from EatMe, the team behind Tokyo Confidential, led by industry veteran Holly Graham.
Tepache, which opens on 12 December, takes its name from a traditional Mexican fermented pineapple beverage. The bar will celebrate agave spirits, from Tequila and mezcal to raicilla and other lesser-known Mexican spirits.
It is believed the bar boasts Hokkaido’s ‘largest’ agave collection.
Its menu opens with the ‘Starters’ section, which comprises Tequila and mezcal pours complemented by the bar’s homemade tepache, Sangrita or grilled pineapple.
The cocktail list includes the Tepache Highball, with Tequila, house-made umeshu and fermented tepache soda, and the Signature Margarita, made with Tequila, Cointreau, Niagara wine syrup, yuzu and lime.
Meanwhile, the Adios Mr Spalding is a nod to one of Tokyo Confidential’s signature drinks, taken from its Second Base menu. The drink combines fermented strawberry, mezcal, sweet vermouth and Scarlet Amaro.
Chef Rene Baez has created the food menu, which features a selection of modern Mexican dishes through two five- or seven-course sharing menus. Baez previously spent four years at Chelas in Tokyo.
Dishes include ceviche and al pastor fries, with mains including classic favourites like enchiladas and tacos.
Niseko Confidential will reopen on 13 December, bringing back favourites from last winter, including the Gingerbread Old Fashioned and Tokyo Banana Colada.
The bar offers à la carte snacks and drinks for après ski between 3pm and 5pm, followed by two evening seatings for its prix fixe fine dining menu.
EatMe will also open AóRA Restaurant in the former Kamimura space inside Chatrium Niseko on 14 December. AóRA’s cuisine is inspired by Italian, French, and Pacific Northwest coastal influences.
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