If the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of Japanese food is sushi, you’re doing it wrong. There’s plenty of variety to be found in Japanese kitchens and with an abundance of seafood, ramen joints and more, Sydney’s Japanese dining scene is truly thriving. From steaming bowls of ramen, rich with savory broth and tender slices of meat, to delicate sushi rolls and more, these excellent spots around town will take you on a virtual trip to Tokyo right here at home. Check out our list of some of Sydney’s best Japanese restaurants.
1. Nobu
Find Japanese fine diner Nobu, one of the most popular in the world, on the second floor of the Crown Towers in Sydney. The lush, sprawling space is complemented by an equally fancy menu that features the likes of tacos topped generously with lobster and wagyu beef, flavourful salads plus a wine and sake menu. Check out their full menu offerings here.
2. Kuro Bar & Dining
Kuro Bar and Dining in Sydney delivers an exceptional Japanese fine dining experience that will leave you wanting more. The menu consists of refined dishes curated thoughtfully and plated just as impeccably. Expect cooked and raw dishes and an extensive selection of beverages that includes wine and Japanese sake. Find more info here.
📍368 Kent St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
3. Saké Restaurant
Bringing a modern twist to traditional Japanese cuisine, Saké has taken over four corners of Sydney. Guests can look forward to a memorable dining experience complete with ambient lighting, moody decor and an extensive menu that features salmon yaki, prawn shumai, sake and desserts like tiramisu and dragon egg. Each dish is bursting with flavour with fine and fresh ingredients that will transport you straight to Japan. See the full menu here.
📍12 Argyle St, The Rocks NSW 2000, Australia
📍The Intercontinental Hotel, 33 Cross St, Double Bay NSW 2028
📍Manly Ferry Wharf Belgrave Street and, West Esplanade, Manly NSW 2095
📍The Grace Sydney, Level 1/77 York St, Sydney NSW 2000
4. Tetsuya’s
A trailblazer on the Japanese restaurant scene, the award-winning Tetusya’s is popular for its degustation menu that highlights natural and seasonal Japanese flavours. The vibrant space is just as appealing as the menu with art-filled interiors, a Japanese water garden and a Japanese-style building. It’s spearheaded by chef Tetsuya Wakuda and has long been revered as a fine-dining OG in Sydney. Get more information here.
5. Sokyo
Great service, excellent location and an even better menu make Sokyo a standout. The elegant spot comes with a bar and dining room and features a rich and refined menu of sashimi, tempuras and meats. If you’re after upscale Japanese fare, this is the spot to hit. Find the full list of their extensive food and drink offerings here.
📍The Darling, Level G, 80 Pyrmont St, Pyrmont NSW 2009, Australia
6. Toko Restaurant
Toko expertly blends contemporary flair with traditional Japanese Izakaya The chic and elegant space with moody lighting and all the vibes promises an excellent dining experience with local Australian produce as the star of the menu. Highlights include an exquisite Kitsune Tasting menu, spicy tuna maki and delicious eggplant tempura among others. See more here.
📍Entry at, Lower Ground, 275 George St, only NSW 2000, Australia
7. Kid Kyoto
Kid Kyoto prides itself on being Sydney’s “rebellious” Japanese eatery. Serving up a modern take on the traditional Japanese izakaya experience, the spot is fun and vibey with a menu to match. Try their standout dishes like the grilled pork skewers, the flavourful corn ribs or the crunchy crispy chicken packed with flavour and wash it all down with their excellent cocktails. Head here for more info on the menu.
📍Entry via, 17-19 Bridge Street, Bridge Ln, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia