Best Japanese Restaurants around the World

Reviews & Questions

1. Quang Thai Nguyen says:

   Ootoya Restaurant.
   82 Nguyen Du, Dist 1, HCMC

   Reply
   • Nami says:

     Hi Quang! Thank you for the first entry for the post!

     Reply
2. Christin says:

   What a great idea! I’d like to add Kushi Tei of Tokyo in Düsseldorf, Germany ????

   Reply
   • Nami says:

     Thank you Christin! I just saw some pictures. Wow this place looks so good!!!

     Reply
3. Miho G says:

   Southern California
   Nannbankan (Santa Monica) https://www.yelp.com/biz/nanbankan-los-angeles
   Their Yakitoris are very authentic
   Sushi Gen (Little Tokyo) http://www.sushigen-dtla.com/
   Their Nigiris are so much more like ones in Japan. Pricy but it’s place to go for traditional authentic Sushi
   Kanpai Sushi (Marina Del Ray) http://kanpai-sushi.net/
   It’s bit more reasonable than Sushi Gen but still serves authentic Japanese food including Sushi. I’ve met owner before. She is all about keeping authenticity. They have great selection of Sake not just typical ones that you see in Japanese grocery stores.

   Reply
   • Nami says:

     This list is very helpful (for me!). Thank you so much for your information, Miho!

     Reply
4. Koren Ramos says:

   Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
   Dwarf no Cachette – a wonderful little Japanese cafe that specializes in authentic Japanese food.
   Kyu Bistro – another wonderful cafe that has a great variety of ramen and home of the Hiroshima hot dog.

   Reply
   • Nami says:

     Wonderful! Thank you for your information, Koren!

     Reply
5. DANNY says:

   Le Cafe Michi is the best japanese restaurant in the Scarborough area (Scarborough, Ontario, Canada)

   they don’t have a website but here’s their yelp page! https://www.yelp.ca/biz/le-cafe-michi-toronto

   Reply
   • Nami says:

     Thanks so much Danny! Hope I can visit one day. 🙂

     Reply
6. Michiko says:

   Hi Nami! Here are some of my favorite places here in Washington state!

   Tsukushinbo (Seattle, WA)
   Issian (Seattle, WA in Wallingford neighborhood)
   Taka Sushi (Lynnwood, WA- They are the only place that I know of that serves Okinawa Soba in Washington!)

   We have alot of izakaya type and sushi places, but these ones stood out the most. I’ll keep you updated when I discover some more great ones!

   Reply
   • Nami says:

     Thank you Michiko! This is wonderful! Wow, I don’t know any place around here in the bay area that serves Okinawa Soba! How cool! Thank you for your list. I look forward to adding more of your favorite from you. 🙂

     Reply
7. Chris Tao says:

   Sushi Sake – Richardson, Texas
   Yama Izakaya & Sushi – Preston Road, Plano, TX
   Sutadonya – Legacy Drive, Plano, TX

   Reply
   • Nami says:

     Thank you for the information, Chris!

     Reply
8. M says:

   Roku in Calgary, Alberta, Canada http://www.rokusushi.com

   Sushi Bar Zipang in Calgary, Alberta, Canada
   http://zipang.ca

   Kazu in Montreal, Québec, Canada
   http://kazumontreal.com

   Bistro Japonais Furusato
   2137 Rue de Bleury, Montréal, QC H3A 2K2, Canada

   Reply
   • Nami says:

     Hello M! Thank you so much for the information! 🙂

     Reply
9. Amy says:

   Oh my goodness. There’s soooo many amazing Japanese restaurants in Vancouver, BC, Canada. Kishimoto, Guu, Kingyo, Santouka (ramen), Yama Café, Raisu, Zakkusshi, Minami, Miku just to name a few.

   Reply
   • Nami says:

     Thank you for the wonderful list! I added the website links as well and they all look amazing!

     Reply
10. Josh Symons says:

    In Melbourne there is Tetsujin for kaiten sushi and yakiniku
    Gypsy and Pig for Tonkatsu
    Gensuke for Ramen
    Izakaya Chuji for izakaya style and many many many more!

    Reply
    • Josh Symons says:

      Sorry thats Melbourne, Victoria, Australia!

      Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you so much for the list! I want to visit these places when I go to Melbourne one day. 🙂 Thank you Josh!

      Reply
11. Raven says:

    Oh boy where to start….
    Let’s start on the cheaper side. If you’re looking for your standard fair with some creative Americanized rolls Sushi Blvd in Sunnyvale is my recommendation. The best futo maki I’ve had is there. Everything I’ve had has been good and portions are on the larger size.
    For good cheap ramen it’s hard to go wrong with Maru Ichi in Mountain View. One warning though, is that this is a cash only place.
    For your standard price range and standard fair I’d recommend Akane Japanese Restaurant in Los Altos, Kanpai in Palo Alto, or Octopus in Menlo Park. These are your classic Japanese restaurants that you can find around the country but they are always good to have as a fall back. Kanpai doesn’t do bento boxes if your into that though. For a restaurant that does practically all I recommend Seto Japanese Cuisine in Sunnyvale. It’s a bit out of the way but prices and food are good and the menu is truly long with some dishes you don’t traditionally see served at restaurants.
    On the pricier side my first recommendation is Fuki Sushi in Palo Alto. It has an extensive menu and if I remember correctly also has a tatami room if you’re looking for that.
    After that I’d recommend Sumika in Los Altos. It’s far from your traditional restaurant with most of it’s menu items being grilled. Though not the greatest place for vegetarians it is possible to make it work. I would consider it to be more of an upscale izakaya. Only warning is you have to get to it through a parking lot as there is no streetside access.
    I’ll undoubtedly think of more but these were the first few that popped into my head. We’re lucky to have so many restaurants in the Bay Area!

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Hi Raven! Thank you for the great list and additional notes! I added all of them. 🙂

      Reply
12. Navaporn Pitikatha says:

    AOI, Bangkok, Thailand

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you, Navaporn!

      Reply
13. Lara says:

    https://www.okura.nl
    City:Amsterdam, The Netherlands. Two Japanese restaurants, one with Michelinstar. Nice ofcourse, but véry expensive.
    http://www.ishii-okonomiyaki.com
    City: Amstelveen, The Netherlands. Cosy small restaurant, actually run by Japanese people, which is rare in the Netherlands (unfortunately)

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you for your recommendation, Lara!

      Reply
14. Michelle says:

    Something for Massachusetts! The best ramen shop in New England I think 🙂

    Pikaichi
    1 Brighton Ave, Boston, MA 02134, USA
    Facebook page: https://m.facebook.com/Pikaichi-149046325152192/

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you for your recommendation Michelle! Added to the list. 🙂

      Reply
15. Kaitlyn Ciarlo says:

    Naka Sushi, Las Vegas, NV

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you Kaitlyn! I added to the list. 🙂

      Reply
16. Samantha lee says:

    Singapore
    Teppei Japanese Restaurant
    1 Tras Link #01-18 Orchid Hotel (Tanjong Pagar MRT) Tel:+65 6222 7363 (Please call to reserve seats)
    Open daily: 12 noon – 2.30 pm; 6.30 pm – 10.30 pm

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you for your recommendation, Samantha!

      Reply
17. Michal says:

    Great idea!
    New country to the list: Israel

    1. Ramen: MEN TEN TEN in Tel aviv, Israel.
    2. Vegan traditional Japanese cooking, they make their own tofu: Tofu- AN in Derech HaAtsma’ut 74, Binyamina.

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you Michal! I’m so happy to have Israel in the list!!! If you know a grocery store where you can buy Japanese ingredients, let me know. We still have no store for Israel. 🙂

      https://www.justonecookbook.com/japanese-grocery-stores-around-the-world/

      Reply
18. Jeff says:

    Sushi Ota in San Diego California

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you for your recommendation, Jeff! I’ve been there once too. 🙂

      Reply
19. Laurie Draegeth says:

    All of these in the United States:
    Yoshimatsu, Tucson, Arizona;
    Samurai, Tucson, Arizona;
    Ikkyu, Tucson, Arizona

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      First entries for Arizona! Thank you Laurie!

      Reply
20. Charlotte Tham says:

    Nanbantei in Singapore is one of the best place to get some good yakitori. The place is small and the food is authentic. Price is reasonable too. This is a place where I will go for my Japanese fix for yakitori

    14 Scotts Road #05-132,
    Far East Plaza
    Singapore (228213)

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you Charlotte! I added to the list. 🙂

      Reply
21. Natasha says:

    I live in Barcelona- Kibuka on Calle Goya or Calle Verdi is the best Japanese there. Really delicious, lots of variety, but their classic rolls and nigiri are fantastic

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you Natasha! This place sounds wonderful!

      Reply
22. Natasha says:

    London- Cafe Japan on Finchley Road. Tiny place run by Japanese people. I’ve been going there with my family for over 20 years. It’s changed hands over the years but still very good.

    New Zealand- When I was in a city called Dunedin, I went to a sushi place called Jizo. Brilliant!

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Hi Natasha! Thank you – I added them to the list. 🙂

      Reply
23. NURFAREIZEA ZULKAFLI says:

    miyagi in bandar baru bangi, selangor, malaysia

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you for your recommendation!

      Reply
24. Dennis Wong says:

    Best Japanese restaurant in the Tri-Valley. Owner imports some of his fish directly from Japan. Good portions, fair prices. Always busy!

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you Dennis!

      Reply
25. Akane Mason says:

    Koto izakaya, oxford

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you Akane! I added to the list! 🙂

      Reply
26. Marnille Umawing says:

    Just the thought of sharing this comment makes me salivate and run to the nearest Japanese resto in my place. Now, her are my favorite places:

    For Katsu – Yabu: The House of Katsu ( http://www.munchpunch.com/yabu-house-of-katsu)
    For Ramen – Ippudo (http://www.ippudoph.com/)
    For Rice Bowls – Ooma (http://www.munchpunch.com/ooma-sm-megamall/menu)
    For Sushi and Sashimi – Minami Saki by Astoria (http://www.astoriaplaza.com/index.php/facilities/dining/15-minami-saki-japanese-restaurant)

    Reply
27. Ricardo López says:

    FRANCE:
    Strasbourg: MATSUMOTOYA: http://restaurant-matsumotoya.com/
    A resto 100% japanese with a menu that explores traditional japanese cuisine. There is no sushi. Delivery available, it includes bentos too! Reservation is almost mandatory, because the place is commonly at its full capacity.

    Paris: Kodawari Raimen: https://www.kodawari-ramen.com/
    One of the most popular noodles bar at this moment in Paris. Great deco, good ramen with local products. Commonly u will need to wait to get a table.

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you so much for your recommendation, Ricardo!

      Reply
28. Annelies says:

    For Belgium: Kamo (http://www.restaurant-kamo.be) and Izakaya (no website) in Brussels

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you Annelies! I added them to the list. 🙂

      Reply
29. Lia says:

    Portugal – Lisbon
    Taska Kome
    Bonsai

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you for your recommendations, Lia!

      Reply
30. Diah Ohara says:

    In Adelaide (South Australia)
    HIMEJI
    SHIKI for Tepannyaki
    GENKO sushi for sushi
    ????????

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you for your recommendation Diah!

      Reply
31. Gen Sumiko T. says:

    In Canada – Quebec – Quebec City
    I suggest Tora-ya Ramen and Hosaka-ya Sushi. The only 2 restaurant in the city iwned by Japanese.
    In Canada – Ontario – Toronto/Etobicoke
    I suggest Ginko restaurant
    In France – Paris
    I suggest restaurant Zen and Kunitoraya
    In France – Bordeaux
    I suggest restaurant le café japonais
    I hope this helps!

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you Gen! Excellent list! Added all of them. 🙂

      Reply
32. Teri says:

    Matsu-Ya in Stevens Point, WI (United States) is pretty darn good. One of my favorite bowls of nabeyaki udon, and they have Saba Negi rolls, which have been hard to come by as I move around the country.

    http://www.matsuyasushistevenspoint.com

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you Teri! I added it to the list.

      Reply
33. Cyn Copeland says:

    For Singapore, I will encourage two .. IZY, on Club Street — the BEST miso soup ever (oh, and all the main stuff fab too…) and The Flying Squirrel off Telok Ayer Road — it’s a ‘hole in the wall’ with a great Malaysian/Japanese chef, the right amount of attitude

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you Cyn! I added to the list. Both look amazing!

      Reply
34. Kim Vanelderen says:

    This is a great idea!

    My favourite Japanese restaurant in Brussels is “Sakagura (bento and sake bar)”. It’s a smaller restaurant specialised in bento, donburi, sake and snacks that go well with sake. At lunch time, their “don of the day” and “bento of the day” are usually great value.

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you for your recommendation, Kim! Added to the list. 🙂

      Reply
35. Rebecca says:

    http://www.kingyotoronto.ca/
    Kyouka.ca
    Sansotei.com
    Kinka.com

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you for the list, Rebecca! I added. 🙂

      Reply
36. Marie says:

    Takumi in Düsseldorf, Germany

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Hi Marie! Thank you so much!

      Reply
37. Siow says:

    Kushi in Auckland city , New Zealand

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you Siow! I added to the list. 🙂

      Reply
38. Christine says:

    Hana Japan in Newburyport, MA, USA

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you Christine! I added to the list. 🙂

      Reply
39. Helen Yee Ornelas says:

    Okawa in Antioch

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you Helen! I added to the list. 🙂

      Reply
40. Matthew Torres says:

    Hiina No Yu
    Kada, Wakayama Japan
    http://hiina.com

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Yay first entry in Japan! Thank you Matthew!

      Reply
41. Neil Sen says:

    There are exactly 3 in Boston:
    Izakaya Ittoku in Allston
    Pabu Izakaya in Downtown Crossing
    Shiki in Coolidge Corner, Brookline

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you so much for your recommendation, Neil!

      Reply
      • Neil Sen says:

        I also want to mention Sakagura in the Lower East Side of New York City.

        Reply
        • Nami says:

          Hi Neil! Thanks, I added to the list! 🙂

          Reply
42. Alexa says:

    Asaka Japanese Restaurant in Indianapolis Indiana, USA! Always need a reservation!

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you for your recommendation, Alexa!

      Reply
43. Tyler says:

    These are all southern California. Fun fact…many of the really authentic everyday Japanese places are not in the city of LA…but instead in Torrance/Gardena. I haven’t had a chance to get over there too much, but there are a lot of highly rated izakaya, yakitori, ramen, etc. This is in large part due to the fact that until recently, all of the major Japanese automakers had their US headquarters there.

    Similarly, if you ever want authentic Chinese food, I have literally nowhere to recommend in the city of LA, all the good stuff is in the San Gabriel Valley. So yes, basically do the opposite of what you would do in any other city…go to the suburbs!

    Torihei in Torrance
    Otafuku Noodle House in Gardena
    Marugame Monzo in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles
    Gyutan Tsukasa in the Mitsuwa Marketplace in Costa Mesa
    Cream Pan in Tustin

    There are dozens of ramen places, but ever since we’ve gotten back from Japan I haven’t been impressed with any of them :((

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you for the wonderful list, Tyler! I added them all. 🙂

      Reply
44. Darlene Grant says:

    Tona, Ogden Utah
    Hanamaru, Ogden,Utah
    Windy’s Sukiyaki, Ogden, Utah

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you Darlene! I added to the list. 🙂

      Reply
45. monch says:

    Philippines – https://www.facebook.com/ogawa.manila/
    https://www.facebook.com/kazunorirestaurant/

    https://www.facebook.com/pages/Seryna-Japanese-Restaurant/355744624447473

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you Monch! I added to the list! 🙂

      Reply
46. Irene says:

    Sushi Robata in Plano, Texas !!!

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you Irene! I added it to the list. 🙂

      Reply
47. Sophie | Delightful Plate says:

    The best Japanese restaurant in Chicago is Kaizan in my opinion. Their premium omakase is amazing, creative and really good value. It is a small restaurant, so reservation is strongly recommended.

    Roka Akor, also in Chicago, has some delicious dishes such as miso black cod, grilled Japanese wagyu beef and green tea custard. I don’t recommend sushi rolls here though.

    As for ramen restaurants in Chicago, I like Wasabi and Ramen Takeya.

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Hi Sophie! Thank you so much for your recommendation! I added them to the list. 🙂 I would love to visit Chicago one day!

      Reply
48. Andreia Nunes says:

    I see you haven’t forgotten about Portugal 🙂 Here are my recommendations (japanese chefs owned by japanese people, I’m quite skeptical on the cliché wannabe sushi houses… it makes me cringe):
    -Tomo https://www.facebook.com/tomo.restaurante/
    -Kanazawa http://kanazawa.pt/en/
    -Kome (I specially like this one. Yuko-san serves mostly everyday japanese dishes, like Karaage or Tonkatsu. It’s also the cheapest… haha) http://www.kome-lisboa.com/

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you Andreia! I added to the list. 🙂

      Reply
49. Anna Natalia says:

    Nippon (https://www.nippon-sushi.com/) in Houston
    Teppay (https://www.facebook.com/teppaysushi)
    Sasaki (http://sasakisushi.com/)

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you Anna! I added to the list!

      Reply
50. Jackie says:

    These are all in Toronto, Ontario (Canada). Zakkushi for yakitori. Ematei for all round. Hiro Sushi, Zen Japanese for sushi.

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you Jackie! I added to the list. 🙂

      Reply
51. Rochelle says:

    Hi Nami, here are a few Japanese-owned South Bay places you and the family might be interested in!

    Izakaya-style:
    – Gochi Japanese Fusion Tapas (Cupertino; Gamba Karaoke next door!)
    – En Japanese Tapas (Santa Clara)
    – Dan Izakaya Restaurant (San Jose)

    Sushi:
    – Tomi Sushi (San Jose, next to Mitsuwa Marketplace)
    – Sushi Tomi (Mountain View location; same as above)

    Ramen:
    – Taka Ramen (San Jose; Authentic Hakata-style)
    – Shalala Ramen (Mountain View)

    Japanese Curry:
    – Curry House Restaurants Cupertino (chain, great kid plates!)

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Hi Rochelle! Thanks so much for your recommendation! Lots of my favorite places too! xo

      Reply
52. Stefan pennefather says:

    Australia Queensland Cairns
    riki yakiniku good Japanese BBQ for anyone up north
    Or Ganbaranaba if you feel like Ramen

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you Stefan! I added to the list!

      Reply
53. J says:

    Sushi Koshu, Diamond Bar, CA
    Wadatsumi, Torrance, CA

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you J! I added to the list. 🙂

      Reply
54. Fabrício Yutaka Fujikawa says:

    Hello, Nami!

    In Brazil, Rio de Janeiro, I recommend the following restaurants:

    Restaurante Ten Kai: http://www.tenkai.com.br/

    Restaurante Miako: http://miako.com.br/

    Restaurante Mitsuba: http://www.restaurantemitsuba.com.br/

    Restaurante Azumi: https://www.facebook.com/azumirestaurante/

    Thank you,
    Fabrício

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you for the wonderful list Fabricio! Added to the list. 🙂

      Reply
55. Adalberto Ikegami says:

    Sushi Nami – São Paulo – Brazil http://www.sushinamisp.com.br
    It Sushi – São Paulo – Brazil
    http://www.itsushi.com
    Aoyama – São Paulo – Brazil
    http://www.restauranteaoyama.com.br
    Sushi Lika – São Paulo – Brazil
    https://m.facebook.com/pages/Sushi-Lika/196153150413474
    DJAPA São Paulo – Brazil
    http://www.djapa.com.br
    Nosu culinaria japonesa – São Paulo – Brazil
    http://www.nosu.com.br/phone/index.html
    Karaoke porque sim – São Paulo – Brazil
    http://www.karaokeboxporquesim.com.br
    Aska – São Paulo – Brazil
    https://restaurantesjaponeses.com.br/aska
    Kazu – São Paulo – Brazil
    http://lamenkazu.com.br
    Tanabe’s – Maringá – Brazil
    http://www.restaurantetanabes.com.br

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Hi Adalberto! Thank you SO much for sharing all these restaurants! I have entered all of them. 🙂

      Reply
56. Möni says:

    Hi,
    Kuro Udon in Vienna, Austria is a really good restaurant if you love udon like me. They even have a vegan udon dish! Here’s their website: http://www.kurojapan.com/udon/

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you Möni! I added your restaurant. 🙂

      Reply
57. Eliane says:

    As a JOC-Fan and having lived in kobe for one year, I can highly recommend https://www.nikonikotei.de/ in Mainz. It‘s a cute japanese restaurant, owned and runned by japanese people. They have quite a lot of different dishes and it tastes originally like back in my days in Japan.

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Hi Eliane! Thank you for your entry! I added to the list now. 🙂

      Reply
58. Llew Janse van Rensburg says:

    Best Japanese restaurant – authentic:

    Japa Express Sushi Bar in Johannesburg, South Africa

    http://www.japa.co.za/index.html

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you so much Llew! I added to the list! 🙂

      Reply
59. Steve & Paula W. says:

    Thank you for your great website – we’re cooking out-of-this-world ramen and donburi now because of you! I recommend the Sakura Japanese Restaurant; Church Corner Mall; Riccarton Rd.; Christchurch, New Zealand. Also, just down the walkway from Sakura is Patisserie Yahagi, a Japanese pastry & dessert place. The two of them together make a great combo – have dinner at Sakura, and pick up some pastries at Yahagi on the way out.

    Reply
    • Steve & Paula W. says:

      Oops, forgot the websites:
      http://sakuracuisine.co.nz/
      https://www.patisserieyahagi.com/

      Steve & Paula

      Reply
    • Nami says:

      Thank you Steve and Paula! I added them in the list!

      Reply
60. Lindsey Nguyen says:

    I personally want to recommend Shiki Japanese Restaurant in London. Very homey and the food delicious

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Hi Lindsey! Thanks so much for letting me know! I added to the list. 🙂

      Reply
61. Liliana says:

    Hi,
    I live in Chile and I would like to recomend some places in Santiago

    Goemon http://www.goemon.cl/
    Kintaro Ramen https://www.facebook.com/kintarochile/
    Japon http://www.restaurantjapon.cl/
    Donkame Yoko http://www.donkameyoko.com/inicio

    Reply
    • Nami says:

      Hi Liliana! Thank you so much for your information! I just added all of them. Thank you!!

      Reply
      • Yuuto says:

        Great suggestions! Donkame is my personal favourite.
        I would like to add Izakaya Yoko, also in Santiago. http://www.izakayayoko.cl/carta.html

        Reply
62. Shannon | Justasdelish says:

    JC Yama at Rotterdam is the best I’ve eaten in The Netherlands (in my opinion, it’s better than Michelin star Okura in Amsterdam). Owner chef Hiroaki Yamamoto previously worked at Okura, and loves creating cuisines that unique local ingredients that include herbs, grasses and wild plants he finds in the Netherlands. Every visit is highly memorable experience.

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Wonderful! Thanks for letting us know, Shannon. Added JC Yama to the list.

      Reply
63. Kristina says:

    Hi! In Miami Florida, the best is Maido Japanese restaurant! Matsuri is also excellent, and many people consider it the best. 🙂

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      They look great! Thanks Kristina. Added both Maido and Matsuri.

      Reply
64. Kristina says:

    in Coral Gables, FL, the best is Su-Shin Izakaya. 🙂

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Thank you!

      Reply
65. Dominic Audy says:

    Montréal, Canada. Nozy. http://www.restaurantnozy.ca

    It’s an authentic teishoku restaurant with a little Northern Japan twist (the owner-chef is from Hokkaido). Super seasonal – the menu is short and changes constantly. Typical: Kamo Nanban Soba, Anko Nabe, Uni Don, kaisen don, crab dishes,, always a sashimi option and a yakiniku option and a grilled fish, and the one soup three sides meal that evolves all year.

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Nozy sounds wonderful! Thanks for letting us know, Dominic. It’s nice when a restaurant changes things up based on seasons.

      Reply
66. Ray steele says:

    http://www.syun-izakaya.com Hillsboro, Oregon. Very cool place!!!

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Got this one down under Oregon. Thank you, Ray!

      Reply
67. Kari Ikemoto Exter says:

    Takuma in Santa Monica, CA, great Japanese Izakaya style bar! https://www.yelp.com/reservations/takuma-santa-monica-2

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Takuma looks like a fun place. Thanks for your recommendation, Kari.

      Reply
68. Julia says:

    Ajishin in Novi, Michigan, USA is the best in the state!

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Thank you Julia! We will have to try it out if we get a chance to visit Michigan.

      Reply
69. Giulia says:

    Hi Nami, in Florence (Italy) my favorite Japanese restaurants are: 1 Iyo-Iyo Sushi
    2 Banki Ramen
    3 Mangiappone (take-away).
    Have a nice day!

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      These are wonderful recommendations, Giulia. Added them to the list. Thank you!

      Reply
70. Nicole says:

    Tempura Hajime in Melbourne Australia
    http://tempurahajime.com.au

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Perfect! Thank you Nicole.

      Reply
71. Karen Scelsi says:

    Konomi in Birmingham, Alabama United States

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Good to know! Thank you, Karen. Added Konomi to Alabama.

      Reply
72. Jane Matsumoto says:

    K-Zo in Culver City /los Angeles.
    http://www.k-zo.com

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      It looks fancy. Thank you, Jane. It’s on the list.

      Reply
73. Alex says:

    Las Vegas has a huge japanese community. Here are my favorites:
    – aburiya raku
    – sweets raku
    – kabuto
    – izakaya go
    – hachi
    – ramen sora
    – trattoria nakamura-ya
    – kame omakase
    – sushi takashi
    – hashi (ramen)
    – sekushi

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      What a great list, Alex. And 5 stars for Kame Omakase? It must be amazing! Thanks for sharing your favorites with us.

      Reply
74. Gena Gonzales says:

    Gombei in San Jose, Ca

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Thank you for the recommendation, Gena!

      Reply
75. Jolee says:

    Domo in Denver, CO! Traditional Japanese homestyle country cooking, with unique and super cool ambience. There is also a really neat little museum connected to the restaurant and a lovely garden. We love this place!!

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Sounds like a must-stop place if anyone ever visits Denver! What a great concept to incorporate Japanese homestyle cooking with a museum and a garden in a modern interpretation. We’d love to visit! Thank you Jolee.

      Reply
76. Joshua Barker says:

    Ramen Ya
    Lexington, Kentucky, USA

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Thanks Joshua. Added Ramen Ya to the list.

      Reply
77. Vincenzo says:

    I would suggest WellKome in Milan!
    The best Japanese restaurant I’ve ever tasted in Italy!

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Thank you, Vincenzo. Now we just have to find an opportunity to visit Milan!:)

      Reply
      • Vincenzo Catano says:

        You’re welcome!
        I almost forgot, there’s also Poporoya in Milan that is another big star. There are two location: a sushi bar and a restaurant.
        The sushi bar is famous here for his cirashi( a bit modified and “improved”) but has also typical dishes. The restaurant, on the other hand, at lunch offers set menus that every time take me back to Japan. I hope you’ll appreciate my opinion! 🙂

        Reply
        • Reese says:

          Of course, we’d love to have your contribution. Added Poporoya sushi bar and the restaurant to Milan. Thanks so much, Vincenzo.

          Reply
78. Rachel says:

    To add to the list:
    Akai Hana (Columbus, Ohio)

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Thank you, Rachel. Now we have something to recommend for Ohio.

      Reply
79. Molly says:

    Hi there! I absolutely love Issei Noodle in downtown Lancaster, Pennsylvania USA! There’s an anime convention there every year and Issei Noodle is right down the street! I absolutely love their Tonkatsu ramen. They have lots of vegetarian options, too!

    http://www.isseinoodle.com/

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Thanks for letting us know, Molly. This is a great addition to the list.

      Reply
80. Marybeth Ortua Alawadh says:

    Tsukiji in Makati

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Thank you, Merybeth! Added to the list.

      Reply
81. Sushi Lover says:

    I think you missed one in Las Vegas. Osaka, the oldest Japanese Restaurant Vegas, continues to shin with their premium quality of sushi. Don’t get me wrong, the others are great, just should have added Osaka Japanese Bistro too. Thanks for sharing as it is a great list as we travel.

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Thanks for letting us know. That’s we rely on readers like you to build on the list. Osaka Japanese Bistro is now added to Las Vegas:)

      Reply
82. Eva Holmberg says:

    In Denmark: ISSA, Kumacph, Bento, Ramen to Biiru, Slurp. Selfish

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      What a great recommendation, Eva. Thank you!

      Reply
83. Diana says:

    Hungary
    Don Doko Don – Budapest https://www.facebook.com/dondokodonbudapest/
    original japanese Don.

    Komachi – Budapest best original ramen and curry, authentic https://www.facebook.com/komachibistro/

    Sushis are can’t be the best at Hungary because we don’t have sea and the fish’s quality not the best, but here is quite good sushis:
    Planet sushi – https://www.facebook.com/PlanetSushiBudapest/
    Sushi Sei – https://www.facebook.com/SushiSeiEtterem/ this one make other japanese foods like nabe and tempuras, that was also verry delicious 🙂

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Thank you for sharing the restaurants with us, Diana! They are now on the list.

      Reply
84. Stephanie says:

    Ooki Japanese Izakaya – Zürich, Switzerland http://www.ooki.tokyo/

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Thanks Stephanie! Finally we can add one to Zurich:)

      Reply
85. Yen says:

    Adelaide, Sa, Australia:
    Ryo’s noodles
    Nagomi
    Nishiki
    Ichitaro
    Ginza miyako
    Wasai
    En
    Contemporary Japanese deli

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Fantastic! Thanks for the great list, Yen!

      Reply
86. Hanna says:

    Yoparai in New York
    Ramen Tatsu-Ya in Texas
    Soto in Austin Texas

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Thanks Hanna! We added your recommendations to the list.

      Reply
87. Sharon Bergen says:

    Wann Izakaya
    Japanese Gastropub
    1850 Broad Street
    Regina, Saskatchewan
    Canada

    http://www.wannregina.com/
    Our favourite menu item is the in house made Ramen.

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Thanks Sharon. We added Wann Izakaya to the list.

      Reply
88. Scott Haithcock says:

    H&L Asian Market
    5300 Rivers Avenue
    North Charleston, South Carolina
    Great selection of diverse Asian products-Japanese, Thai, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, etc.

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Hi Scott, thanks for letting us know. We have H&L Asian Market on our Japanese Grocery Stores around the World list.
      https://www.justonecookbook.com/japanese-grocery-stores-around-the-world/

      Reply
89. Gabi says:

    One of my two favourites are here (Sushi Sei – Budapest HUN), but the other isn’t: Yabase in Düsseldorf, Germany (Klosterstraße 70.

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Hi Gabi – Thanks for letting us know about Yabase! Looks like a great place.

      Reply
90. Eduardo Nakatani says:

    Mexico city: Wanwan sakaba / hiyoko / le Tachinomi desu

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Thanks so much, Eduardo! We finally have some recommendations for Mexico city.

      Reply
91. Max Ishida says:

    MOG Bistro at México City

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Perfect! Thank you, Max.

      Reply
92. Kyra Davis says:

    Afuri Ramen in Portland, Oregon

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Good to know about Afuri Ramen, Kyra. Looks like a place to go for anyone who visits Portland. Thank you!

      Reply
93. Brad says:

    For Romania:
    Kanpai http://kanpai.ro
    Yuki ~ Home Dining http://yukihomedining.ro/en/

    Both are located in Bucharest

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Thank you, Brad! They are now on the list.

      Reply
94. Winnie says:

    Daruma restaurant in Schamburg, Illinois
    1823 W Golf Rd, Schaumburg, IL 60194

    Authentic homely Japanese dishes and we love the special ramen on weekends!

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Hi Winnie – We added Daruma to the list. Thank you!

      Reply
95. Anne says:

    For France, my recommendation for taste like in japan :
    Ryukishin (ramen and tsukemen)
    Dosanko Larmen
    Naritake Kotteri Ramen
    Sushi Kilala
    Sushi B
    Azabu
    Abri Soba
    Kinasé (for Niigata saké and other local foods)
    Isse Workshop
    Isse Izakaya
    Tomo (dorayaki)
    Kosyuen (tea salon)
    Happatei (takoyaki and okonomiyaki)
    Okomusu ((okonomiyaki)
    Omusubi gonbei
    Salon McQueen (Kissaten from Osaka and good bento)
    Okawari bento
    Sanukiya (one of the best udon and where the taste doesn’t changed)
    Kisin (the Best udon in Paris)
    Karaage-ya

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Wow! This is a comprehensive list, It’s amazing to know there are so many quality Japanese restaurants/ eateries in Paris. Thank you so much, Anne. We really appreciate your input. Merci!

      Reply
96. Max says:

    Nueva Casa Japonesa in Buenos Aires, Argentina

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Thank you so much, Max!

      Reply
97. Marie-Pierre Champagne says:

    Aka Fuji in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Thank you Marie-Pierre!

      Reply
98. KyRee Elain says:

    D’s Authentic Japanese restaurant
    20 Glenelg Place
    Connolly.
    Perth Western Australia

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Looks like they’ve got 5-star reviews. Thank you, KyRee!

      Reply
99. ji says:

    Finland
    Kamome
    Koto
    Tokyo street

    Reply
    • Reese says:

      Perfect! Now we have recommendations for Finland. Thank you so much, Ji!

      Reply
100. Patrick Price says:

     Niki’s Tokyo Inn
     San Antonio TX

     Reply
     • Reese says:

       Thank you, Patrick!

       Reply
101. Karen Sakuda says:

     Utage restaurant in Honolulu, Hawaii on island of Oahu. They serve Okinawan and Japanese food.

     Reply
     • Reese says:

       Hi Karen, we can’t believe this is the first recommendation we received from Hawaii! Thank you so much! Added to the list.

       Reply
102. Brenda says:

     South Dakota – Sushi Masa

     Reply
     • Brenda says:

       Sioux Falls, South Dakota

       Reply
103. Brenda says:

     Sorry – I forgot to specify – Sushi Masa – Sioux Falls, South Dakota

     Reply
     • Reese says:

       Thank you, Brenda. Added Sushi Masa to the list.

       Reply
104. Nicole H says:

     My Favorite in Anchorage Alaska
     http://kumagorosushi.com

     Reply
     • Reese says:

       Thanks, Nicole! Now we have a recommendation for Anchorage.

       Reply
105. Petra says:

     The best in Czech Republic is Katsura restaurant in Prague.
     Also I like to eat in Samurai, also in Prague, but I think the chef is not Japanese.

     Reply
     • Reese says:

       Thanks, Petra! Good to know you can find quality Japanese restaurants in Prague. We added Katsura to the list.

       Reply
106. Amy Martin says:

     United States / Pennsylvania / Philadelphia: Royal Sushi & Izakaya
     (www.royalsushiandizakaya.com)

     United States / Pennsylvania / Philadelphia: Double Knot
     (www.doubleknotphilly.com)

     United States / Texas / Austin: Uchi
     (www.uchiaustin.com)

     Reply
     • Reese says:

       Great recommendations! Thank you, Amy.

       Reply
107. Claire says:

     World Sushi in Nanuet, NY – It’s almost like gourmet japanese food
     Ootoya in NYC – More traditional, my brothers love it
     and ZAUO in NYC – I haven’t been there yet, but you catch your own fish and my brother raves about.

     Reply
     • Reese says:

       Thanks for sharing, Claire!

       Reply
108. Ed Gunderson says:

     You absolutely need to add Sushi Den and Izakaya Den in Denver, Colorado. Toshi and Yazu Kizaki have ruled the Denver sushi scene for decades.

     Reply
     • Reese says:

       That’s why we rely on readers like yourself for building the list. Thank you so much, Ed! Denver is now updated with your recommendations.

       Reply
109. Leah says:

     Oh gosh, I have quite a few to add to your list…these are all in Georgia, USA.

     Sushi Yoko in Norcross – Wonderful Japanese comfort food. They serve a little bit of everything. Very hole-in-the-wall, but I loved going there whenever I missed Japan.

     Jinya Ramen in Sandy Springs – Some of the best ramen I’ve ever had outside Japan. The Sprouting Up Ramen is my favorite.

     Shoya Izakaya in Doraville – Pretty big izakaya-style restaurant. Lots of menu options.

     Sushi Mito in Norcross – Another izakaya-style place, but a bit more of a nice restaurant feel, quieter than Shoya.

     Kura Revolving Sushi Bar in Doraville – The sushi here is honestly just okay, but it’s fun to go for the gimmick: it’s an honest-to-goodness revolving sushi bar. Eat enough plates and you can win a cute little prize!

     Reply
     • Reese says:

       Oh, Leah! This is so helpful. You’re the first one who contributed to the Georgia list. So your recommendations are excellent. We updated the list. Thank you!

       Reply
110. Eash Jeretta says:

     If like to add Yokohama Ramen to Wichita Kansas and Kanai Sushi which is a special ordering and catering business. We used to go to Kanai when they were opened as a regular style restaurant and their food was of highest quality and authentic taste. Yokohama has two restaurants and is also authentic style and taste

     Reply
     • Nami says:

       Hi Eash! Thank you for the information. I added to the list! 🙂

       Reply
111. Robyn Foster says:

     Suggestions for your world wide restaurant list:

     Sono Japanese Restaurant
     Portside Wharf Brisbane Queensland Australia
     sonorestaurant.com.au

     Chaco Bar
     186-188 Victoria Street
     Potts Point Sydney NSW Australia
     chacobar.com.au

     Busshari Japanese Restaurant
     119 Macleay Street
     Potts Point Sydney NSW Australia
     busshari.com.au

     Reply
     • Reese says:

       This is excellent, Robyn! I couldn’t believe it took so long for us to receive recommendations from Sydney & Brisbane! Thank you so much.

       Reply
112. Robyn Foster says:

     Oh, I almost forgot – for the ultimate degustation Japanese dining experience in Sydney (you have to book way ahead though!):

     Tetsuya’s
     529 Kent Street
     Sydney. NSW. Australia
     tetsuyas.com

     Reply
     • Reese says:

       Thank you, Robyn!

       Reply
113. Patty says:

     All Netherlands!
     Yokohama Ramen Saito – Schiedam – https://shunmenblog.wordpress.com/
     Izekaya Tanuki – Amstelveen (Also in Amsterdam, but not as good) – https://amstelveen.izakayatanuki.com/
     Nagomi – Amstelveen (No website, just facebook and instagram) https://www.facebook.com/RestaurantNagomi/
     Takumi Dusseldorf – Rotterdam (and The Hague, Eindhoven and Amsterdam) – https://takumiramennoodles.com/
     Set Restaurant – The Hague – http://www.setrestaurant.nl/
     Hakata Senpachi – Amsterdam – http://www.hakatasenpachi.com/

     Reply
     • Reese says:

       Perfect! Thank you, Patty. We added your rec to the list.

       Reply
     • Viala says:

       One of the best restaurants in the world, Maido, is in Peru, and it’s menu is Nikkei.
       There’s many others, but this is the most famous.

       Reply
114. Frank says:

     Tenka Ramen in Richmond, Virginia. Quite possibly the most authentic Ramen in all of Virginia, along with an incredible scene and mood, with walls decorated with posters of various Japanese media (in original language too). Also happens to be a walk away from the largest Comicon in Virginia.

     Reply
     • Reese says:

       Thanks, Frank.

       Reply
115. Penwadee says:

     There are several Japanese restaurants, located around Thailand which served various kinds of Japanese food, even sushi, ramen, okonomiyaki, toriyaki, ….as Fuji, Otoya, Isakaya, etc.

     Reply
     • Reese says:

       Thanks!

       Reply
116. Kariann Lee says:

     I would like to add Shiro’s Sushi in Seattle, Washington!

     Reply
     • David Eriksen says:

       Shiro Kashiba sold his restaurant in Seattle, Shiro, but opened another named after his family name, “Kashiba.”

       In Honolulu, Hawaii, I must highly recommend Yaki Yaki Miwa for teppanyaki. For Yoshoku, a few doors down from Miwa is Chez Kenzo Bar and Grill. Both, on South King Street, are not in Waikiki and are reasonably priced.

       In Downtown Honolulu, is an excellent yakitori restaurant, Yakitori Hachibei.

       For Okonomiyaki in Hawaii, it’s tough to beat Okonomiyaki Chibo in Waikiki. This restaurant is part of a chain in Japan and makes theirs “as you like it.” I prefer an all seafood version. Though not inexpensive, it’s very good. They also have an awesome selection of Japanese whisky.

       Reply
       • Reese says:

         Perfect! Thanks Karianne and David. We appreciate you chiming in. We have double checked all the recommendations. Sounds like you know quite a few good places, David. Thanks so much!

         Reply
117. Anonymous says:

     Maruichi in West Hartford, CT

     Reply
     • Reese says:

       Thanks! Maruichi is more like a grocery store slash deli. We’ll update it in our grocery list instead.

       Reply
118. Kavita says:

     I highly recommend Hinodeya Ramen in SF! Vegan ramen there is my FAVORITE…! There’s also a branch in Dallas, TX, that opened recently, I believe.

     http://hinodeyaramen.com/

     Reply
     • Reese says:

       Thanks, Kavita. It looks like they are temporarily closed for now. We will check back and update.

       Reply
119. Drew Alexander says:

     Sonobana has the best Japanese in Nashville, TN
     They have a great market as well with just about everything a home cook would need including the same sushi grade fish served in the restaurant

     http://www.sonobananashville.com/

     Reply
     • Reese says:

       Thank you, Drew. Someone mentioned that too. It is now on our list.

       Reply
120. Benoit says:

     Hi Nami,
     I’ve got three addresses to add to the list:
     * Sanzaru Nikkei in Woluwé-Saint-Pierre, Brussels, Belgium
     * Oiishi in East Kilbride, Scotland, United Kingdom
     * Ichiban in Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom
     Best regards,
     Benoît

     Reply
     • Reese says:

       Thanks so much, Benoit. We have updated the list with your recommendations.

       Reply
121. Zarry says:

     Hi,
     I just came across this list. Thank you so much for putting it together.

     For Paris (France), I would suggest adding:
     Toraya (https://www.toraya-group.co.jp/toraya-paris/) – tea room serving wagashi 🙂
     Blueberry ブルーベリー (https://www.blueberrymakibar.com/en/) – great maki
     Carré Pain de Mie (https://en.carrepaindemie.com/) – it’s a bakery but they have a sitting area where you can enjoy your shokupan sandwich

     For London (UK)
     Koya (https://www.koya.co.uk/) – great ramen
     WA (https://www.wacafe.co.uk/) – cakes, anpan, melon pan, matcha drinks 🙂

     Reply
     • Reese says:

       You have excellent recs. Thank you very much, Zarry.

       Reply
122. Djamal says:

     This site is fantastic! I would just like to add my favorite restaurant in Bordeaux, France, “Le SamouraÏ” (https://restaurant-lesamourai.com/). It’s a small family-run establishment that offers excellent products with fresh and quality ingredients.
     There are also “L’encoche” (https://www.facebook.com/Lencoche33/), “Un soir à Shibuya” (http://unsoirashibuya.fr/) and “Ishikawa” (https://restaurant-ishikawa.com/) which are also very good.

     Thanks again

     Reply
     • Reese says:

       Excellent rec! Thanks for sharing.

       Reply
123. Giorgia says:

     Hello,
     I am writing because I see that it’s been a long time since you do not update this list and I think you should add to the Italian restaurant two other places:
     -Hibiky-han in Florence;
     -Kabuto Ramen in Pisa.

     Both these places have wonderful dishes and you can feel there very strong the feeling of japanese culture of food.

     Hope you can embrace my suggestion!

     Best,

     Giorgia

     Reply
     • Reese says:

       Hi Giorgia – thanks for sharing the restaurants with us. We’ve just got around to update the list, so they are there now. Cheers!

       Reply
124. Joann Takehara says:

     Nominating Renga Tei, 3956 W Touhy Ave, Lincolnwood, IL 60712. It’s just like homemade. It has been our extended family’s go-to place for Mother’s Day and milestone birthdays in addition to everyday.

     Reply
     • Mr. JOC says:

       Hi Joann,

       Thank you for letting us know about Renga Tei and we’ve added it to the list.

       Reply
125. Yoshi K says:

     Sonobana in Nashville, TN, USA. They also have a small grocery store attached, which is already on your Japanese grocery store list.

     Reply
     • Reese says:

       Thanks, Yoshi! We have Sonobana on the list now.

       Reply
126. Sarah Marie Chermak says:

     Wakyoto in Branson, Missouri. Check this restaurant out.

     Reply