From matcha to MICHELIN: Take your pick from 36 heavyweight to homegrown concepts.
Whether you’re after maki rolls or MICHELIN Stars, there’s a Japanese restaurant in Dubai to suit your stomach. The city is home to big brands, such as Nobu and Zuma, as well as homegrown hits like Reif Japanese Kushiyaki. So, if you’re looking for a meal to remember, here are the best Japanese restaurants in Dubai.
99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant
If you’ve got 99 problems, sushi won’t be one when you visit this restaurant. 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant opened in 2020 and offers a shiny dining experience – there are gold chopstick holders, no less. Priding itself on using high-quality ingredients, the menu includes the 99 Black Cod, Katsu Sando, and Wagyu Beef Sandwich, all featuring gold (obviously). Plus, the Insta crowd will love the lavish interiors and Burj Khalifa views.
GO: Visit www.99sushibar.com for more information.
Akabeko
In Japanese, akabeko means “red cow” and refers to a legendary animal found in the Aizu region. Now, the cow is part of Akabeko’s brand logo and can be seen placed throughout the dining room of the new restaurant in Palm West Beach. Akabeko offers a nose-to-tail dining concept and is the first Japanese A5 Wagyu-focused “Yakiniku” experience in the city. The approach ensures that every edible part of the animal is prepared and consumed, including all the “left-behinds” and “secondaries”. Akabeko’s signature dishes include the Supreme Wag-Yukke — a spicy tartare topped with scallops, uni, and ikura — and the Akabeko Donburi featuring prime Wagyu steak, uni, and caviar, embellished with truffle. We recommend you conclude your dining experience with Akabeko’s signature truffle ice cream.
GO: Visit https://akabeko.ae for more information.
Armani/Hashi
Armani/Hashi has worked diligently to establish a reputation for itself in Dubai, and it has rightfully earned its place on the list. The concept creates a twist on traditional Japanese cuisine. Not only are fresh ingredients flown in daily, but it also offers a local touch – a shisha lounge, anyone? The menu features robatayaki and teppanyaki dishes, as well as a Hokkaido Tasting Menu, which includes sashimi, sushi, sukiyaki, and more, priced at AED 1,699 per person. Oh, and there’s a view of the Dubai Fountain.
GO: Visit www.armanihotels.com for more information.
Clap
Put your hands together for Clap. The restaurant was born in Beirut and can be found in Dubai, Riyadh and soon, London. The DIFC venue is swanky yet sophisticated, and no expense has been spared, from the shimmering chandelier to the action figures. The restaurant serves top-quality Japanese cuisine and offers dishes ranging from sushi to sashimi. Take your pick from Rock Shrimp, Black Cod, Matcha Cheesecake and more.
GO: Visit www.claprestaurant.com for more information.
Cutfish
Cutfish Sushi can already be found in London and Moscow, and is now open beneath Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab. The menu is anchored around a commitment to fresh, natural ingredients and offers a contemporary twist on Japanese-inspired cuisine. Superb for sharing the signatures include sushi rolls, Josper grill dishes, and beef, chicken, as well as duck dishes. Guests can enjoy a close-up view of the chefs in the open kitchen and take in the stunning Marsa Al Arab Marina vistas from the terrace.
GO: Follow @cutfishdubai on Instagram for more information.
Daikan Izakaya
The Japanese Daikan brand has expanded from Abu Dhabi with the opening of Daikan Izakaya in City Walk. Daikan Izakaya’s menu aims to offer an authentic Japanese experience. The menu offers an array of creative Japanese specialities, ranging from fresh sushi and juicy grills to crispy gyoza, bao buns, salads, and sharing-style plates. Popular dishes include American-style Wagyu Teppanyaki Philly cheese steaks with caramelised onions and shishito, crispy tuna bites and Japanese Wagyu Daikan smash burgers. Daikan Izakaya takes pride in its in-house kansui alkaline noodle production and locally sourced ingredients, ensuring the highest quality and freshness in every bowl.
GO: Follow @daikanizakaya_ae on Instagram for more information.
Dragonfly
Dragonfly is now open at The Lana Promenade. Alexander Orlov and Reif Othman created the new venue, which combines Japanese flavours with Pan-Asian influences. The signature dishes include Bluefin Tuna Carpaccio with clementine ponzu, Salmon Tataki with Asian pesto, and Wagyu Tartare with truffle mayo. Dragonfly Dubai offers a day-to-night experience and brings together resident and guest DJs. The cocktail menu is inspired by the Seven Values of the Samurai and covers core values: Jin (merciful), Rei (respect), Gi (righteousness), Yu (courage), Makoto (honesty), Chugi (loyalty), and Meiyo (honour). You can read our full FACT review here.
GO: Visit www.dorchestercollection.com for more information.
Gohan
Did you know that there was a Japanese speakeasy in Dubai? Welcome to Gohan. Created by the team behind La Cantine du Faubourg, the restaurant creates an intimate dining experience – no wonder it is popular with the royals. The name means humble, translates to “meal of any sort”, and refers to any cooked rice dish. The menu features authentic Japanese flavours, including Beef Sando, Crispy Chilean Sea Bass, and Wagyu Scotch Egg. Plus, there are desserts ranging from Marinated Citrus to Matcha Sponge Cake.
GO: Visit https://lacantine.ae for more information.
Goldfish
Get your chopsticks ready because Chef Akmal Anuar’s Goldfish Sushi & Yakitori offers a modern twist on traditional Japanese cuisine. Expect new-style sashimi, nigiri, maki rolls, caviar, and an array of yakitori skewers and clay pot dishes. Among the mains, highlights include Grilled Octopus, Australian Tenderloin, and the must-try Wagyu Sliders, which have garnered rave reviews. Goldfish Sushi & Yakitori is also committed to sourcing the finest ingredients in an ethical manner. Plus, with an open kitchen concept, guests can witness the kitchen staff working their magic firsthand.
GO: Visit https://goldfishsushiyakitori.com for more information.
Hōseki
You know you’re in for an exclusive dining experience. The MICHELIN Starred restaurant and sushi superstar, Masahiro Sugiyama, creates an intimate yet refined dining experience at Bvlgari Resort Dubai. There is the Hisui menu, featuring five appetisers, and the Ruri menu, which includes seven appetisers, both of which also feature sushi, miso soup, and a Japanese omelette. If you’re feeling adventurous, order the Omakase menu – it leaves the food selection up to the chef. The menu is tailored to you and features fresh ingredients flown in directly from Japan.
GO: Visit www.bulgarihotels.com for more information.
Kasumigaseki
Hidden within Vida Emirates Hills, Kasumigaseki brings a touch of Tokyo to Dubai, focusing on precision, purity, and understated elegance. Inspired by the philosophy of wabi-sabi, the interiors blend minimalism with warmth, creating a serene space where the craft of Japanese cuisine takes centre stage. The menu is a celebration of traditional techniques and seasonal ingredients, offering a range of dishes that includes pristine sashimi, expertly formed nigiri, charcoal-grilled delicacies, and delicate broths. An open sushi counter allows diners to witness the artistry firsthand, adding to the immersive experience.
GO: Follow @kasumigaseki_dxb on Instagram for more information.
KEN by Kamatsuda
Dubai is home to world-class restaurants, featuring a mix of celebrity chefs and homegrown brands. Now, it has welcomed KEN by Kamatsuda to The Dubai EDITION. The restaurant boasts a unique selection of ingredients, many of which are exclusive to this establishment in Dubai. The team use rare Awa Wagyu Beef, which is famous for its rich taste, sweet marbling and melt-in-your-mouth texture. The beef is served as nigiri sushi or steak. The menu also features Saga Red Uni, which is freshly imported from Japan. Additionally, an omakase experience, priced at AED 5,000 per person, is available.
GO: Visit www.editionhotels.com for more information.
KIMA
The origin stories of restaurants often sound the same. That’s not the case with the new Japanese concept, Kima. It wasn’t born in a boardroom but from a big argument. The restaurant brings all the vibes of a low-key neighbourhood izakaya to the heart of JLT. Choose from a selection of small and large tables, as well as countertop seats, and enjoy a menu featuring donburi, maki, small dishes, and desserts. Signature dishes – labelled Kima dishes – include California, Ebi Maki, Kima Kara-age, Spicy Chicken, Salmon Avocado, Spicy Tenderloin, Spicy Tuna, Veggie Roll, and Yakisoba.
GO: Visit www.kimaizakaya.com for more information.
Kinoya
Kinoya boasts one of Dubai’s most charming restaurant stories. Neha Mishra originally started the concept as a supper club entitled A Story of Food, which she ran from her home for nearly three years. Neha served more than 7,000 happy diners and became well-known for her signature ramen. Kinoya opened its first restaurant in Dubai’s Onyx Tower in 2021, and it was so popular that it was tough to get a reservation. If you’re one of the lucky diners who have managed to relish the ramen, you’ll know what all the foodie fuss is about. The concept has since expanded to Harrods in London.
GO: Visit https://kinoya.com for reservations and more information.
Kiyoshi
Kiyoshi’s interiors blend nature and urban elegance, drawing inspiration from traditional Japanese aesthetics and contemporary architecture. Influenced by the beauty of Mount Fuji, the space is enriched with bespoke details, from painted cherry blossoms on the terracotta tiles that lie behind the bar to laser-painted portraits and custom glass installations. The menu covers cold and raw dishes, hot specialities, kushiyaki and handrolls. Signature dishes include the Butternut Squash Misoyaki, a delicate blend of black sesame purée and pomegranate mint pesto, and the Tenderloin Avocado Tower, featuring sushi rice, snap peas, and a sweet soy glaze.
GO: Visit https://kiyoshirestaurants.com for more information.
Kohantei
Kohantei takes things to a traditional level, drawing its inspiration from Omotenashi hospitality. The décor boasts Japanese artwork, sliding shoji doors and tatami flooring. If you’re after a little intimacy, there are three private dining rooms. Take your pick from set menus, which come with multiple courses. Sakura offers six courses for AED 430, including soup, sashimi, and steak. Plus, the main menu includes seafood, Wagyu and dessert.
GO: Visit www.kohantei.ae for more information.
Kokoro
Dubai, it’s time to roll with it. The city has welcomed its first-hand roll sushi bar, Kokoro. Located in Alserkal Avenue, the seating is on a first-come, first-served basis and currently does not take reservations. The design is simple yet sleek, from the wooden door with a discreet logo to the floor-to-ceiling windows. For the full experience, we recommend grabbing a countertop seat and watching the chefs at work in the kitchen. Kokoro’s menu boasts fresh fish, with options including Bluefin Tuna with pickled cucumber, Ikura, Janpachi, Madai, Salmon with white ponzu, Scallop with orange, Seaweed Salad, Shima Aji, and Uni.
GO: Follow @kokoro.dxb on Instagram for more information.
Kumo
Japanese cuisine and cuteness combine in the new restaurant, Kumo. The new concept in Al Wasl has been created by the same team behind the UAE’s homegrown restaurants, including Parkers, SALT, and more. Meaning “cloud” in Japanese, Kumo is designed to resemble a classic Japanese tea house adorned with warm woodwork, delicate bonsai trees, and minimalist touches. Guests can enjoy a dedicated matcha bar, sushi counter and a menu of sandos, skewers and sushi.
GO: Follow @kumo.uae on Instagram for more information.
Mimi Kakushi
Mimi Kakushi has made a significant impression since its opening in 2021. Not only has the restaurant garnered the adoration of locals, but it has also received a FACT Dining Award. The Japanese restaurant and bar transports you back to the swinging jazz age of 1920s Osaka. Plus, the fine dining menu includes lunch, dinner and brunch, and the signature dishes cover sushi, sashimi and tempura.
GO: Visit https://mimikakushi.ae for more information.
Netsu
If you’re after a Japanese steakhouse, look no further than Netsu. The venue opened in 2019 and was created by Chef Ross Shonhan, who has previously worked at Nobu and Zuma. The dishes are created using the traditional Japanese cooking technique, Warayaki – straw fire cooking. The menu includes high-quality meats, and the Wagyu Truffle Sukiyaki is a must. Sit by the open kitchen and watch the chefs at work. The fires reach impressive heights and temperatures, and make for a thrilling meal out.
GO: Visit www.mandarinoriental.com for more information.
Nobu by the Beach
Luxuriate at the world’s first Nobu-branded pool and beach club located in Atlantis The Royal. Relax in a private cabana, savour refreshing libations, and indulge in the melodies of local and international DJs. The menu showcases the fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine, commonly referred to as Nikkei, and comprises inventive small plates, communal platters and renowned Nobu classics. And when the ambience becomes overwhelming, cool off with a rejuvenating swim in the pool or the ocean. If it’s good enough for Kanye West (who recently visited), it’s good enough for us.
GO: Follow @nobubythebeach on Instagram for more information.
Nobu Dubai
Nobu was created by chef Nobu Matsuhisa and actor Robert De Niro, and its first branch opened in New York in 1994, followed by Nobu Dubai in 2008. Nobu Dubai shifted location in Atlantis, The Palm and now sits in the hotel’s former Royal Bridge Suite on the 21st floor. Here, guests can enjoy epic views of Palm Jumeirah and the Arabian Sea. Today, it is renowned for its world-class Japanese cuisine – most notably, the Black Cod Miso. Go on, spoil yourself.
GO: Visit www.noburestaurants.com for more information.
Okku
The focal point of the new Okku at Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah is a 20-metre sushi bar and robata grill, designed to flaunt the brand’s culinary prowess. Elsewhere, a more relaxed atmosphere awaits at the Okku Lounge, complete with luxurious seating and a glamorous bar. Expect classic Japanese cuisine and adventurous new creations. Diners can indulge in a range of classic ‘O’ style dishes that have become a staple of the restaurant’s menu, while also discovering new tastes to expand their palates. From the succulent Wagyu Beef and Foie-Gras Kushiyaki to the spicy, crunchy delight of the Tuna on Crispy Rice, each dish is made with precision and finesse.
GO: Follow @okkudxb on Instagram for more information.
Reif Japanese Kushiyaki
The much-loved homegrown concept originated in Dubai and has since expanded to Egypt. Chef Reif Othman is famous for his unconventional spin on Japanese food and has a loyal following, not to mention multiple FACT Dining Awards. The restaurant has a spectacular selection of sushi, ramen, kushi (skewers) and arguably one of the best sando interpretations in the city.
GO: Visit https://reifkushiyaki.com for more information.
REN
Get ready to sing for your supper, as REN has opened in Grand Plaza Mövenpick. Located in Media City, the restaurant showcases modern Nikkei cuisine and includes a karaoke room. Izakaya bites include Crispy Calamari, Miso Eggplant and Salmon Arepa, while signature rolls include the Akira Panayaki, Lobster Volcano and Tokyo Illusion. The rooftop restaurant boasts a sophisticated design with red seats, gold lighting features, a curved staircase, and Japanese-inspired plants.
GO: Visit www.renuae.com for more information.
ROKA
ROKA Dubai has earned its chopsticks. The restaurant opened just days before the Covid-19 pandemic and then shut down for months. Today, it has become a staple on the Dubai dining scene, famous for offering a contemporary Japanese robatayaki experience. Located in The Opus by Zaha Hadid, it serves its signature dishes in a stunning setting. Dishes include the famous black cod, sea bream fillet, and lamb cutlets with Korean spices.
GO: Visit www.rokarestaurant.com for more information.
Ronin
Celebrity chef Sin Keun Choi is behind Ronin at the new FIVE Luxe. The restaurant offers an innovative take on Japanese food and draws its inspiration from an unlikely place: the country’s warriors. The idea aims to bring together fun and fine dining. Located on JBR, it includes a beautiful beachfront setting and live cooking stations to keep you entertained. The venue features both indoor and outdoor seating, ranging from a sushi and teppanyaki bar to pagoda-style sharing tables.
GO: Visit https://luxejbr.fivehotelsandresorts.com for more information.
Salvaje
Anchored in the ‘wild side’ of Japanese gastronomy, the globally acclaimed concept already operates outposts in Al Khobar, Barcelona and Miami. Closer to home, Salvaje has made its debut at Address Residences Dubai Opera in Downtown Dubai, boasting Burj Khalifa views and a chic setting. Under the guidance of Chef Fermín Azkue, diners can explore a menu of inventive fusion dishes, paired with Spanish flair and a unique twist tailored to local tastes. The menu features premium selections, including indulgent Oscietra Supreme Caviar and duck fried rice, as well as sizzling robata grilled steaks. The restaurant comes alive at night with a line-up of DJs, fire dancers and saxophonists, explaining why Salvaje remains a popular choice among A-listers.
GO: Follow @salvaje.dubai on Instagram for more information.
Sexy Fish Dubai
Between its resident DJs, opulent interiors, artworks by the likes of Damien Hirst and Frank Gehry, and a diverse menu inspired by the seas of Asia, Sexy Fish has won rave reviews since its London debut in 2015. The trendy restaurant and bar currently runs three restaurants – one in London, one in Manchester and another in Miami – and is gearing up for its new venue in Dubai. We’re hoping the Dubai outpost will retain the signature dishes of the original Sexy Fish, such as duck salad, vegetarian sushi, smoked tuna belly, crispy eringi mushroom, black cod, and king crab, with the addition of new dishes and seasonally inspired flavours.
GO: Visit https://sexyfish.com for more information.
SOON Nobby x True Izakaya
Inspired by Japanese gaming culture, cyberpunk, and 1980s aesthetics, SOON Nobby x True Izakaya aims to create a unique destination for foodies, party-goers, and cocktail lovers in the heart of modern Dubai. Combining authentic Japanese cuisine with neoteric pop culture, SOON pays homage to the 1980s anime and gaming culture, where contemporary decor is fused with provocative details, such as the Ahegao-style graphic floor and a robot made from old Japanese electronics. The menu highlights umami flavour with dishes such as House Tofu and Tomato Salad, Aged Shima Aji, Saikyo Miso Black Cod, and Wagyu Beef Mazesoba.
GO: Follow @soondxb on Instagram for more information.
SUSHISAMBA Dubai
Perched on the 51st floor of The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm, SUSHISAMBA offers one of the city’s most dramatic dining experiences. Blending the bold flavours of Japan, Brazil and Peru, the restaurant brings a vibrant energy to its menu and setting. Interiors are awash with natural textures and 360-degree views, while the menu impresses with standout dishes such as the Crispy Yellowtail Taquitos, Robata-grilled Chilean Sea Bass and Wagyu Gyoza. Sushi lovers will appreciate the signature Samba Dubai roll, while desserts like the Japanese Doughnuts offer a playful finale. SUSHISAMBA is as much about spectacle as it is about flavour.
GO: Visit www.sushisamba.com for more information.
TakaHisa
Located on the lobby level of Banyan Tree Dubai, TakaHisa is all about top-notch sushi and Wagyu. After opening in 2021, it was even visited by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The décor includes a grand piano, an omakase counter and a terrific terrace. The menu features a range of dishes, from Kobe Beef Tataki to Wagyu Sashimi, all crafted with premium ingredients.
GO: Visit https://takahisa.ae for reservations and more information.
TOMO
TOMO has mastered an authentic Japanese experience. Chef Takahashi and his team have created a menu that includes hot and cold appetisers, soup, salad, sushi, sashimi, Wagyu, and more. The Teishoku menu ranges from Tonkatsu Teishoku to Tempura Teishoku, which are served on a tray with rice, miso soup and pickles. Plus, it boasts a beautiful balcony with views of the city’s skyline.
GO: Visit www.raffles.com for more information.
Uchi
Uchi is a swanky Japanese-inspired bar and restaurant that has just flung open its doors in DIFC. Dishes like the Truffle Lobster and Uni Soba with Konbu Dashi combine Japanese tradition and modern artistry. Designed by head chef Ciprian Porumbacean, the menu spans Freemantle Octopus Millefeuille, King Crab with pea and asparagus ditaloni, Wagyu Tartar and a selection of maki rolls. Beyond the food and drinks, Uchi offers a chic and contemporary atmosphere incorporating an abundance of dark wood, marble, teal upholstery, subdued lighting and sushi counter seating in the heart of the action. Read FACT’s full review here.
GO: Follow @uchi.uae on Instagram for more information.
Umi Kei
For those who crave the authentic taste of Japan, Umi Kei is the ideal choice among all of the new restaurants in Dubai. This izakaya-inspired restaurant captures the essence of Japanese dining with a relaxed yet lively atmosphere. The space is dimly lit, with spotlights highlighting the intimate corners, perfect for shared meals. Chef Yukou Nishimura now oversees the culinary direction at Umi Kei, offering a menu of heritage recipes, izakya classics, robata grilled items, sashimi and sushi. Plus, there’s a special omakase menu, which leaves the chef in full charge of your meal.
GO: Visit www.jumeirah.com for more information.
Zuma
Zuma garnered the most accolades ever at the FACT Dining Awards Dubai. Loved by FACT’s Editor-in-Chief, this is an institution. Follow his lead and order the Chutoro Tarutaru Kyabia Zoe of fatty Tuna Belly adorned with Oscietra caviar and slathered across a buttery miso bun. Sip Palomas at the bar or indulge in the bombastic weekend brunch. You won’t regret it.
GO: Visit https://zumarestaurant.com for more information.
