Should you be fortunate enough to live in (or be visiting) Sydney when a craving for Japanese cuisine comes over you, then the only stumbling block will be the sheer enormity of choice that awaits you.
Sydney has an abundance of quality Japanese restaurants, at every price point and in virtually every suburb.
The freshness and excellence of the local seafood, combined with the pre-pandemic explosion of Australian tourists visiting Japan, only fuelled what has long been a thriving Sydney Japanese food scene.
So whether you’re seeking ramen, sashimi, tempura, teriyaki, yakitori, wagyu or any other classic dish, we’ve got you covered. Read on for our take on the best Japanese restaurants in Sydney. Whether you want somewhere authentic or fusion, modern or traditional, inexpensive or sweat-inducingly pricey – the Harbour City has them all.
Below is a list that covers vegan, vegetarian, meat-heavy, and gluten-free options. And yes. There are venues for the more adventurous as well as the traditionalists.
We’ve made our list comprehensive enough to give choice, but small enough not to overwhelm. All you have to do is read, book and eat.
Locations: Sydney City: Level 2, The Galeries, 500 George St, NSW 2000 Ph: (02) 9262 7677 & Bondi Junction: 171-173 Oxford St, Bondi Junction, NSW 2022 Ph: (02)9369 3980 See Website For Further Locations
With restaurants in the Sydney CBD (the flagship), a Sydney Express and also in Bondi Junction, Ichi-Ban Boshi has prepared authentic Japanese cuisine for Sydneysiders for over 20 years.
Using carefully selected Australian ingredients, Ichi-Ban Boshi’s delicacies are all freshly handmade, with noodles prepared daily.
Our Top Tip? Don’t miss the popular Tonkotsu (pork broth). They only make 30 portions of this magical elixir per day. Go early, if possible.
Their signature ramen soup is also found in their curry. Their dedication to hand-making their stock makes Ichi-Ban Boshi’s flavours extremely recognisable and leaves you wanting more.
The menu serves fresh meat and fish but has a wide range of vegan and vegetarian alternatives for dishes such as ramen, udon, and a variety of entrees.
We are truly devastated to hear that Tetsuya’s closed at the end of July 2024. Despite hoping to relocate to a new home, it seems that the team were not able to find a suitable venue and Tetsuya Wakuda decided to wrap up the restaurant instead. No more exemplary Confit of Tasmanian Ocean Trout. Goodbye to the devilishly decadent Dark Chocolate and Coffee Cake with Buckwheat Ice Cream.So long to the serene dining room with its beautiful artworks.
The closure of this truly outstanding Japanese restaurant after 37 years is an incredibly sad day for anyone who loves good food.
Ito in hip Surry Hills has a growing fan based for obvious reasons.
Billing itself as a modern neighbourhood Izakaya, its the perfect place to meet friend after work and down a couple of cocktails whilst sharing a delicious meal. But which meal do you fancy sampling? Simple question, right? However, with the kitchen flexing its muscles across dedicated Lunch, Banquet, Dessert, Beverage and A La Carte Menus, we recommend visiting a number of times. Just to make sure you’re not missing anything amazing!
What do we recommend? Well, the Yellowfin Tuna, Bonito Bread & Bottarga is a total flavour bomb. And we have to agree with a number of online reviewers that the Roasted Eggplant, Tomato Miso & Whipped Tofu is a blinder of a dish. Similarly, the Prawn and Scallop Ravioli, Hotaru Ikea & Tobiko is something to get truly excited about.
Incidentally, if you’re surprised by a ravioli on the menu, don’t be. Ito Restaurant is unashamedly Japanese-Italian in its leanings. And we’re her for it.
Finally, it’s worth mentioning that Ito is part of the Esca Group and so is a sibling eatery to establishments such as AALIA in Martin Place and Nour, also in Surry Hills. So you know you’re in good hands.
In complete contrast to the fine-dining opulence of Tetsuya’s is this little gem of a find in the trendy inner-west suburb of Balmain.
This is a small, intimate and unpretentious little restaurant. It’s very cosy, cute in a Sailor Moon kind of way, reasonably priced, and a well-kept secret that the good people of Balmain have kept to themselves for too long (over a decade in this location). This is definitely the place to come if you fancy a Build A Bowl dining experience.
Of course the teriyaki is excellent, but so is everything on the small menu. Specials are highlighted on a blackboard, and there is a warmth to the ambiance of the uncluttered interior.
I ordered the Agedashi Nasu (deep fried eggplant with dashi-based sauce), with a main of Misobata Kingfish and Isobe Calamari (salt & peper calamari). Simply cooked, elegantly plated and delicious.
If you are going to put a restaurant into a cool as Barangaroo House, then it had better be up to scratch. Fortunately, Rekodo Restaurant & Vinyl Bar ticks all the boxes.
The concept comes from the hip listening rooms of Tokyo, where the fashion-forward meet to eat, drink and spin records. And sitting pretty on the 1st floor of ‘the nest’ (as Barangaroo House is nicknamed), with expansive views out over the water, this is a fabulous spot to kick back with a cocktail and a plate of Chicken & Prawn Gyoza.
The menu flexes with the seasons, but whenever you dine, everything is of the highest quality.
Open with the Cured Salmon, Citrus White Ponzu & Black Onion. From there, the Soft Shell Crab Bao with Pickles & Nahm Jim is pillowy and more-ish. Dan Dan Noodles slap you round the face with a good hit of Sichuan Chilli Oil. Whilst the Charcoal Marinated Wagyu Steak with Wasabi & Pickled Ginger melts on the tongue.
Add in the DJ keeping to party mood going in the background and you have a great night out. No wonder Rekodo is rapidly getting a name amongst the top Japanese restaurants in Sydney.
Aiming to only serve fresh, authentically Japanese dishes, Nazimi transports you to Japan with its traditional decor and fresh produce.
With hearty lunch options and classic main and Sushi menus, Nazimi is perfect for any time of the day. What’s more, vegan and vegetarian options make it accessible for everyone to dine without missing out.
The relaxing atmosphere is what draws you to Nazimi, along with the delicious Green Tea and Sesame Ice Creams to round off your meal and provide a much needed sweet treat.
Give it a try. We feel it’s one of the top Japanese restaurants in Sydney.
Providing affordable, good-quality Sushi, Sushi Hotaru serves an extremely wide selection – from Hand Rolls to Nigiri to Gunkan. If you wish you can order from touch screen pads that are easy to use. Alternatively, pick your dinner as it rumbles past on the conveyor belt.
Vegan and vegetarian options are clearly labeled, and there are an array of Meats and Fish to choose from. There is most certainly something for everyone to enjoy.
Sometimes, when an eatery claims to be a master of a number of disciplines, we are skeptical. Luckily, our concerns prove to be totally unfounded at Kobe Wagyu BBQ, as this place delivers on all fronts. Sushi, Sashimi and Japanese-style BBQ – the team can do it all. And with flair.
Pop in at noon sand you can trawl your way through the excellent Lunch Sushi Buffet Menu. Now whilst the Tuna Sashimi is as fresh as any you’ll find in the Harbour City, that is merely the tip of the iceberg. Along side the Sashimi and Sushi offerings, there’s also an extensive array of Sides Dishes (Jellyfish, anyone?), Rice and Noodle options and Bites. The latter including one of our favourite snacks – Deep Fried Lotus Root.
If you turn up for the BBQ Buffet Menu, then you’d better do so hungry. As well as Chicken Lamb and Pork, the menu features 11 different cuts of Wagyu Beef. Alternatively, you can feed your Pescatarian cravings with a range of Seafood. And believe me when I say that the Tiger Prawns are huge.
All this, and we haven’t even mentioned the A La Carte yet.
Honestly, do yourselves a favour and seek out Kobe Wagyu Yakiniku. Just don’t eat before you go!
Location: The Galeries, Level 1/500 Geroger St, Sydney, NSW 2000 Ph: (02) 8072 8212 For further locations, see the website.
YAYOI not only serves traditional Japanese dishes, but provides you with a perfect balance of Meat, Vegetables, and Fish for the ultimate dining experience.
Using only quality Meat and Fish, YAYOI’s specialty Teishoko meals really stand out from the crowd for their variety of Eel, Pork, and Chicken dishes. YAYOI are proud to exclusively use Huon Salmon in their dishes, which is ethically sourced and of the highest quality.
A variety of Japanese Saké, Plum Wines, and Green Teas are just some of the drinks options.
Location: 246-248 Military Rd, Neutral Bay, NSW 2089 Ph: (02) 9904 3011
The North of Sydney is home to Jugemu & Shimbashi. This restaurant is particularly interesting as it is split into two- the modern teppanyaki specialist Jugemu and the traditional Soba expert Shimbashi.
The extensive menu caters to Meat eaters, Pescatarians, Vegetarians, and Vegans. Even better, you can order from both menus from whichever side you choose to sit on. And where you decide to sit is totally up to you.
Having said all this, we have to mention the amazing Okonomiyaki – a Savoury Pancake hailing from Osaka and Hiroshima. The kitchen does a number of options, but our pick is the Genki Dama. This delight comes with Wagyu Beef Slices, Garlic Chips, Shallots and a Fried Egg on Top.
The electrifying Jugemu provides a busier atmosphere, whilst Shimbashi has a calming ambience. However, both offer a unique dining experience.
Location: 222 Military Rd, Neutral Bay, NSW 2089 Ph: (02) 9908 1950
Komaru offers traditional Set and Box menus that come with your choice of Meat, Fish, or a Vegetarian option, alongside Rice, Salad, and Miso.
As well as Sushi and Sashimi, Komaru has weekly specials which keep the menu interesting and vibrant. This also allows you to experience different flavours and exciting delicacies.
Komaru also sells powders for home use, allowing you to take the taste of Japan away with you.
Nobu’s high-class dining room has elements of traditional Japanese decor. It is a luxurious space, perfect for a memorable dining experience featuring some mouth watering dishes.
The menu provides a clear section dedicated to a solely Vegetarian options. However, if this isn’t to your taste, there’s also an impressive list of Sushi hot dishes and sides, and a wide variety of local Seafood and Meat. And if you’ve never tried the Nobu signature dish of Black Cod Miso, we encourage you to splash the cash and give it a go. It’s sublime.
Known around the world, Nobu stays true to their fine dining tradition. Everything is of the highest quality, including the discerning choices made on their Wines, Cocktails, and Sake list.
Combining jazz and sushi is Jazushi, Sydney’s very own piece of New York. The dimmed lights of the dining area give Jazushi a calming jazz club vibe with a menu guaranteed to please customers.
With plenty of Vegan options and an extensive selection of Japanese Soft Drinks, Wine, Whiskey, and Saké, there is plenty to feed your fancy.
There is a live music schedule so you can enjoy your meal whilst experiencing a particular artist you’d like to hear. It’s a point of difference that makes Jazushi worth a visit.
The menu features both raw and cooked favourites. We love the playful take on a well-known fast food – the JFC. This is the venues Jazushi Fried Chicken with Soy Mayo. Yum!
RK San Contemporary Japanese Restaurant puts a modern twist on classic Japanese dishes.
Using locally sourced ingredients, RK San envisions interesting dishes, as shown by their ‘Cigar of the day’ dish which consists of Salmon rolled in a Pastry shell and decorated to resemble a cigar.
These kinds of dishes set this restaurant apart from any other, making the dining experience like no other.
With Pink Sushi and flower-shaped Fish, RK San’s innovative designs are mind-blowing and taste just as delicious. That said, for us, the must-try plate is the simply named Pork Belly. Hero-ing a 36hrs Sous Vide Pork Belly with Carrot Puree, Dashi Ginger Glaze, Popped Pork Skin and Cumin Crumb, it is awesome.
Incidentally, the kitchen also does both a Chef’s Tasting Menu and a Degustation Menu. Just make sure you book in advance.
Surry Hills currently has a wealth of funky, delicious Japanese restaurants and bars, and Izakaya Fujiyama is no exception.
Serving fresh Fish Nigiri, baby rolls, and a variety of hot dishes consisting of Tofu and Eggplant for Vegans and Tuna and Teriyaki Beef on the grill, Izakaya Fujiyama creates interesting spins on traditional cuisine. Give the Truffle Oil Edamame a go and you’ll see what we mean.
There’s an extensive selection of cold and hot dishes, making Izakaya Fujiyama a great choice all year round. With Happy Hour every day excluding weekends, this restaurant is perfect for enjoying some of your favourite dishes, whether that be from the kitchen or the bar.
Location: 12 Argyle St, The Rocks, NSW 2000 Ph: (02) 9259 5656 For further locations, see website
We’re continuing our look at the best Japanese restaurants in Sydney with the excellent contemporary establishment, Sake.
Saké’s section of ‘new classics’ really gives a modern twist on traditional dishes, and the à la carte menu offers lots of Gluten-Free and Vegan options too. The Seafood is proudly MSC-Certified and handled by expert chefs, ensuring that you can enjoy your dishes to the full.
The menu is packed with flavoursome traditional ingredients such as Salmon and Chicken, keeping your tastebuds intrigued and wanting more. One great example of this is the New Style Sashimi. This raw fish-lovers dream showcases Salmon, Snapper & Scallop with Hot Sesame Oil & Ponzu and looks are gorgeous as it tastes. From the Mains, we’re big fans of the Binchoyaki Dry-Aged Wollemi Duck Breast. Perfectly pink-centred, it arrives with Nanban Shimeji Mushrooms, Edamame Puree and Umeshu Jus.
The seating options are perfect for any occasion, with the restaurant offering private or communal dining, as well as bar tables. Combine this with superb service and divine food and you have a great night out.
Is this the coolest Japanese izakaya-style dining spot in Sydney? Well, if not the hippest, it’s certainly up there.
Based on the intimate restaurants of beautiful Kyoto, this fashionable eatery isn’t easy to find. But once we’re in, you’ll be glad you perservered.
What to eat? Well, we’re suckers for the Corn Ribs, Smoked Chilli Miso & Togarashi. Then there’s the most original Spring Rolls we’ve eaten in a long while. The ones at Kid Kyoto have Lamb, Kimchi, Bone Marrow & Mozzarella and come with a Spicy Mayo. Amazing!
From the bigger dishes, the Eggplant Dengaku with Smoked Yoghurt & Hazelnut Gomasio is a vegetarian’s dream. Meanwhile, for the meat-eaters, the Crispy Skin Chicken with Garlic Soy Vinegar is a must-try.
And this and some fab cocktails too. Yep. Kid Kyoto is definitely one of the hottest Japanese restaurants in Sydney.
Incidentally, Kid Kyoto comes from the same stable as Mejico and Indu – Mexican and Indian restaurants, respectively.
Location: The Streets of Barangaroo, 10/33 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo, NSW 2000 Ph: (02) 8072 7383
Whether you frequent Zushi Surry Hills or Barangaroo, you’ll find a chic, modern aesthetic at play – both in the food and design of the eatery.
This is relaxed Japanese bar (or izakaya) dining elevated to suit the taste of discerning Sydneysiders. The result is a contemporary Japanese restaurant with some seriously yummy dishes.
We’re big on the Sashimi Tacos – a fun creation of Salmon, Tuna, Avo, Yuzu Granita and more in a Wonton Cracker. And whilst the Chicken Karaage is always good, it’s nice to see the same treatment given to Cauliflower. For mains, it’s hard to ignore the delicious Yuzu Miso Salmon, served with Grilled Baby Cos Lettuce, Crispy Quinoa and a Yuzu Miso Glaze, it’s a winner both in flavour and texture.
Like many smart venues, Zushi offers Lunchtime Bowls & Sets, a dedicated Lunchtime Menu, a Tasting Menu, plenty of Vegetarian and Vegan options and even a separate Kids Menu.
Of course, if you merely want to pop in for a Cocktail or Japanese Beer and a wee Snack, that’s fine too.
And did we mention that the kitchen also does a Bottomless Brunch?
All-in-all, Zushi is one of the best Japanese Restaurants in Sydney for multiple reasons.
Everything about Toko Restaurant screams premium. From the elegant, warm wood dining room with its charcoal banquettes and pops of red and bronze in the furnishings, to the discreet but knowledgeable staff and, of course, the stunningly presented food.
Eating at this exquisite establishment is a self-proclaimed ‘dining experience’ – and we can see why.
Take the Wagyu Gyoza. Bursting with flavour, these little parcels of yumminess are enhanced by White-Soy Mustard and Truffle Oil. Meanwhile, there are all kinds of interesting things coming off the Robata Grill. The Japanese Pumpkin with Miso Yogurt and Pepitas is a blissful marriage of sweet and unmami, soft and crunch. The Grilled King Prawns are meaty and firm and materialise bathed in a punchy Kimchi Butter and Shiso.
When it comes to great places to eat in Australia, the list really is endless. There are so many different restaurants, cafés, and chains to try that you really are spoiled for choice. From Italian food, to Japanese food, to a good ‘ole rump steak, the food options are endless.
This is why I decided to set up my blog, Eatability, to share the best food and drink spots in Australia with as many people as possible. Hi, my name is Dylan Cole, and I moved to Australia five years ago from England, UK.
Through this blog, I will be sharing and recommending some of my favorite places you need to visit, such as where to find the best pizza in Adelaide, and the best bakery in Brisbane. Whatever food you are fancying, I have got you covered!
