Best Japanese Restaurants In The World

Japanese cuisine has become a global phenomenon, with Japanese chefs and restaurants gaining the recognition and praise they deserve worldwide. This article explores some of the best Japanese restaurants in the world, highlighting their unique offerings and what sets them apart in terms of taste, ambiance, and experience.

Finding the Best Japanese Restaurants

With the growing popularity of Japanese cuisine, it’s easy to find Japanese restaurants in many cities around the world. But finding the best ones requires more effort and research. Here are some factors that we consider while selecting the best Japanese restaurants:

Quality of ingredients and authenticity of Japanese cuisine 😋
Expertise and skills of the chefs and staff 🍣
Ambiance and decor that reflect Japanese culture and tradition 🎎
Service and attention to detail 👌
Value for money 💰

The Top Japanese Restaurants in the World

After considering the above factors, we have selected the following Japanese restaurants as the best in the world:

Sukiyabashi Jiro (Tokyo, Japan)

Sukiyabashi Jiro is a world-renowned sushi restaurant located in Ginza, Tokyo, and is considered by many as the best sushi restaurant in the world. The restaurant is run by Jiro Ono, an 93-year-old sushi master who has been perfecting his craft for over 70 years. The restaurant serves only sushi and offers a unique omakase experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression on any sushi lover.

Kitcho Arashiyama (Kyoto, Japan)

Kitcho Arashiyama is a traditional Japanese restaurant located in Arashiyama, Kyoto, and is known for its impeccable kaiseki dining experience. The restaurant is run by Kunio Tokuoka, a third-generation chef who has received three Michelin stars for his culinary excellence. The restaurant overlooks a beautiful Japanese garden and offers an authentic Japanese dining experience that is beyond compare.

Narisawa (Tokyo, Japan)

Narisawa is a unique Japanese restaurant located in Minato, Tokyo, and is known for its innovative approach to Japanese cuisine. The restaurant is run by Yoshihiro Narisawa, a chef who combines traditional Japanese techniques with modern culinary concepts to create dishes that are not only visually stunning but also delicious and sustainable. The restaurant has received numerous accolades, including two Michelin stars.

Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet (Shanghai, China)

Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet is a one-of-a-kind restaurant located in Shanghai, China, that offers a multi-sensory dining experience. The restaurant is run by Paul Pairet, a French chef who combines his culinary expertise with technology and art to create a unique dining experience that engages all the senses.

Sushi Saito (Tokyo, Japan)

Sushi Saito is a high-end sushi restaurant located in Minato, Tokyo, and is known for its traditional sushi-making techniques and impeccable service. The restaurant is run by Takashi Saito, a sushi master who has honed his craft for over 40 years. The restaurant only serves sushi and offers an omakase experience that is sure to impress any sushi lover.

Matsukawa (Kyoto, Japan)

Matsukawa is a Japanese restaurant located in Kyoto, Japan, that offers a unique kaiseki dining experience. The restaurant is run by Chef Tadayoshi Matsukawa, who combines traditional Japanese techniques with modern culinary concepts to create dishes that are both visually stunning and delicious. The restaurant has received two Michelin stars for its excellence in Japanese cuisine.

Den (Tokyo, Japan)

Den is a casual yet high-end Japanese restaurant located in Jingumae, Tokyo, and is known for its inventive approach to Japanese cuisine. The restaurant is run by Chef Zaiyu Hasegawa, who combines traditional Japanese ingredients with modern techniques to create dishes that are playful, creative, and delicious. The restaurant has received two Michelin stars for its culinary excellence.

Koy Shunka (Barcelona, Spain)

Koy Shunka is a Japanese restaurant located in Barcelona, Spain, that offers an authentic Japanese dining experience. The restaurant is run by Chef Hideki Matsuhisa, who combines traditional Japanese ingredients with Spanish influences to create dishes that are both unique and delicious. The restaurant has received two Michelin stars for its culinary excellence.

Jungsik (New York, USA)

Jungsik is an upscale Korean-inspired restaurant located in New York City, USA, that offers an innovative approach to Korean cuisine. The restaurant is run by Chef Jungsik Yim, who combines traditional Korean ingredients with modern culinary techniques to create dishes that are both visually stunning and delicious. The restaurant has received two Michelin stars for its culinary excellence.

Ryugin (Tokyo, Japan)

Ryugin is a high-end Japanese restaurant located in Roppongi, Tokyo, that offers a unique kaiseki dining experience. The restaurant is run by Chef Seiji Yamamoto, who combines traditional Japanese techniques with modern culinary concepts to create dishes that are both beautiful and delicious. The restaurant has received three Michelin stars for its culinary excellence.

Morimoto (Philadelphia, USA)

Morimoto is a Japanese restaurant located in Philadelphia, USA, that offers a contemporary approach to Japanese cuisine. The restaurant is run by Chef Masaharu Morimoto, who combines traditional Japanese techniques with modern culinary concepts to create dishes that are both visually stunning and delicious. The restaurant has received numerous accolades for its excellence in Japanese cuisine.

Shoji at 69 Leonard (New York, USA)

Shoji at 69 Leonard is a hidden gem of a Japanese restaurant located in Tribeca, New York. The restaurant is run by Chef Derek Wilcox, who offers an intimate and authentic Japanese dining experience that is unlike any other in the city. The restaurant has received rave reviews for its culinary excellence and personalized service.

Kikunoi (Kyoto, Japan)

Kikunoi is a traditional Japanese restaurant located in Gion, Kyoto, that offers a unique kaiseki dining experience. The restaurant is run by Chef Yoshihiro Murata, who combines traditional Japanese techniques with modern culinary concepts to create dishes that are both beautiful and delicious. The restaurant has received three Michelin stars for its culinary excellence.

Saint Pierre (Singapore)

Saint Pierre is a French-inspired Japanese restaurant located in Singapore that offers a unique fusion of French and Japanese cuisine. The restaurant is run by Chef Emmanuel Stroobant, who combines his culinary expertise with Japanese ingredients to create dishes that are both visually stunning and delicious. The restaurant has received numerous accolades for its culinary excellence.

FAQs About the Best Japanese Restaurants

1. What is the price range of the best Japanese restaurants?

The price range of the best Japanese restaurants varies depending on the restaurant’s location, reputation, and the type of dining experience it offers. Some restaurants may charge a few hundred dollars for an omakase meal, while others may charge over a thousand dollars.

2. How do I make a reservation at the best Japanese restaurants?

Most of the best Japanese restaurants require reservations, and it is recommended to book well in advance as they tend to fill up quickly. You can usually make a reservation by contacting the restaurant directly or through online reservation platforms.

3. Is it necessary to know Japanese to dine at the best Japanese restaurants?

No, it is not necessary to know Japanese to dine at the best Japanese restaurants. However, some knowledge of Japanese cuisine and culture may enhance your dining experience.

4. What is the dress code for the best Japanese restaurants?

The dress code for the best Japanese restaurants varies, but most require smart casual attire. It is always best to check the restaurant’s website or contact them directly for specific dress codes.

5. Are the best Japanese restaurants suitable for vegetarians or people with dietary restrictions?

Most of the best Japanese restaurants offer vegetarian or vegan options, but it is always best to check with the restaurant in advance to ensure they can accommodate any dietary restrictions or preferences.

6. What is the best time to visit the best Japanese restaurants?

The best time to visit the best Japanese restaurants varies depending on the restaurant’s location and the type of dining experience it offers. It is recommended to make a reservation well in advance and arrive on time for your reservation.

7. What makes the best Japanese restaurants different from other Japanese restaurants?

The best Japanese restaurants stand out from other Japanese restaurants due to their exceptional quality of ingredients, authenticity of Japanese cuisine, expertise and skills of the chefs and staff, ambiance and decor that reflect Japanese culture and tradition, service and attention to detail, and value for money.

Conclusion

Japanese cuisine has taken the world by storm, and these best Japanese restaurants are leading the pack with their culinary excellence, unique dining experiences, and exceptional