Sydney is a hub of culture and cuisine, perhaps best showcased through its wide collection of incredible Japanese restaurants.
Whether you’re after a casual sushi dinner, or a multi-course culinary journey, this list of the best Japanese restaurants in Sydney has something for every type of diner.
Toko Restaurant
At Toko Restaurant, guests can expect a unique dining experience that masterfully blends Japanese Izakaya with the freshest Aussie produce available. The al-a-cart menu includes all the classic offerings, as well as a selection of sake, whiskeys and Japanese-inspired cocktails.
The highlight, however, is Toko’s Omakase experience. Translated as ‘leave it to us’ in English, Omakase is an 18-course degustation carefully crafted by the expert chefs to help guests learn more about the history and flavours of Toko.
Cho Cho San
Cho Cho San is inspired by the tradition of Izkaya, meaning ‘stay-drink-place,’ a spot to get comfortable and enjoy a drink alongside small plates of food. Here, the modern, minimalist setting compliments the menu of sharing plates featuring noodles, meats and sweets.
For a heartier meal, guests can choose a banquet menu, which features all the best offerings from the kitchen. The busy, exciting atmosphere and unique cocktails make for a wonderful night out every time.
Amuro
This small, intimate venue only fits 20 people at a time, resulting in a cosy ambience. At Amuro, visitors often come for the wide range of boutique sake. The venue doesn’t provide a drinks menu, instead encouraging visitors to talk to staff about their recommendations, creating conversations around culture and cooking.
There is also a small rotating food menu which features sashimi, rice bowls and mochi, so you will never leave hungry. Those seeking a nostalgic and relaxed vibe will certainly love it here.
Chaco Ramen
This hip, vibrant restaurant is known for its four signature ramen dishes, combining classic flavours with modern techniques for unforgettable dishes including Tomato Truffle and Yuzu Scallop ramen. Chaco Ramen also offers take-home DIY kits, which means customers can craft their own ramen meals whenever they choose.
Located in both Darlinghurst and Bondi, Chaco Ramen is one of the more relaxed settings on this list, perfect for those eating on a budget who still want authenticity and flavour.
Besuto Omakase
Besuto is a traditional Japanese Omakase restaurant known for its 15 course culinary experience, designed to immerse diners in the culture and flavours of Japan. The menu has been created by some of the most talented chefs in Australia, who combine traditional and innovative practices for a result like no other.
Just a short walk from the restaurant, diners will find Bar Besuto. This underground treasure serves limited edition whiskies, with only a few hundred bottles worldwide, as well as cocktails and sake.
Izakaya Fujiyama
Izakaya Fujiyama is the spot for classic sushi, sashimi and saki like you would find if you were dining in the back streets of Tokyo. The casual venue boasts a warm atmosphere, friendly staff, and a menu to suit every taste. From wagyu beef cheek bao buns to tuna belly karaage, each item is bursting with flavour and personality.
Juan Bowl & Tea
Located in Redfern, this restaurant specialises in rice bowls and traditional tea, just like the name implies. However, it also offers a range of indulgent desserts such as matcha tiramisu and black sesame warabimochi.
Owner and chef Anna Ishiguro draws on her years of experience in the top kitchens of Japan, maintaining traditional flavours but adding a contemporary flair in her design and plating. Juan Bowl & Tea is another fabulous option that doesn’t compromise on quality, but also doesn’t break the bank.
Taruhachi Bento
This hidden eatery in North Sydney is a local favourite, particularly popular with students due to its cheap and cheerful vibe. With a handwritten blackboard menu, tiny kitchen, and self-serve dispenser of hot and cold water, Taruhachi Bento is a great place for a casual dinner with friends.
The bento boxes all include a main, rice, and one or two sides. Visitors can dig into karaage fried chicken, teriyaki salmon, or even grilled eel – the choice is yours!
Mappen
This Japanese noodle bar is known for its long queues stretching across George Street. Meaning ‘one more time’, Mappen is certainly popular with returning customers who come back time and time again after tasting the fresh noodles and selection of toppings including shredded vegetables, fishcake tempura and homemade chilli oil.
Located in the heart of the Sydney CBD, Mappen is a great lunch-time fix, or an after-work dinner when you don’t feel like cooking.
Kisuke
Kisuke is a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience unlike anything you’ve seen before. Chef Yusuke Morita opened his Potts Point restaurant after years working in some of the top venues from around the world. Together with his wife, Izumi, he personally greets every guest and leads them on an evening of delight.
Kitsuke only offers six seats per night, resulting in an intimate evening all about showcasing the best of Japanese cuisine. The menu changes daily to reflect the freshest ingredients available, all hand-selected by the chef prior to the meal. However, this does mean that they cannot cater to dietary restrictions. Priced at $200 per person, the tasting menu includes soups, sashimi, sake and more. Morita’s signature dish is an 11-piece sushi offering, but everything on his menu is bursting with flavour and authenticity.
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Featured image: Toko Restaurant © Toko Restaurant; Phu Tang
