6 Best Japanese Restaurants In Dubai That You Must Try

To an outsider, Japanese food culture is a mystery. The etiquette and the presentation of various dishes are unique on their own. Afterall, the chefs cooking traditional Japanese cuisines get training for years to achieve perfection. The individuality of their creativity can be witnessed in their flavour and choice of cutlery.

The cuisine based on seasonal ingredients is served in small portions in graceful bowls is an Instagrammable sight to behold. Their traditional dishes; Sushi, Sashimi, Unagi, Soba, Sukiyaki, Miso soup, and the list goes on and on. Whether you want a light and refreshing food or a rich and hearty portion, you have options in Japanese cuisine.

Over the years, there is a growing popularity for traditional sushi and bento dishes among the perfection-seeking Dubai population. As more and more people are looking for healthy and intriguing alternatives in the Emirate, Japanese cuisine ticks the box. In this post, we’ve listed the best Japanese restaurants in Dubai to enjoy the amazing dishes.

Best Japanese Restaurants in Dubai

Zuma

In restaurant language, a decade might mean outdated. But Zuma, the global powerhouse situated at 16 worldwide locations stands tall, brushing shoulders with others. The main dining area at Zuma, Dubai is spread over 2 floors, and it is connected by a dramatic staircase that adds a cool vibe to the place. The menu here is quite extensive. Miso-marinated black cod, sushi, and sashimi are the most sought-after at this best Japanese restaurants in Dubai. Book a table before you visit the place as they usually are full for weeks.

Zuma often finds a listing in the much-coveted ‘The World’s 50 Best Restaurants List.’

Location: Al Sa’ada Street

Operating Hours: Saturday to Wednesday: 12 pm – 12 am/ Thursday, Friday: 12 pm – 2 am

TOMO

Be prepared to be dazzled by the freshness of ingredients, because they import produce every week from Japan. Talk about authentic service, huh!! TOMO, the Japanese restaurant visited by the Crown Prince of Dubai, offers an uninhibited view of the Dubai skyline from its rooftop terrace. The word TOMO means ‘a long-time friend’ in Japanese. Once you visit this warm upscale restaurant, it’ll become your TOMO. The traditional Japanese drinks are excellent here.

Location: Raffles Hotel Wafi City

Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 12.30 pm -12 am

Nobu

How would you like Japanese cuisine with a Peruvian twist? Nobu, the Japanese joint, is the brainchild of renowned celebrity chef and restaurateur Nobuyuki Matsuhisa. Nobu is well known for its fusion menu of blending traditional Japanese dishes with Peruvian ingredients. The iconic black cod miso is a must-try at Nobu. You should try the fusion burst of Japanese tapas and premium wagyu beef tacos.

Nobu offers an exhilarating experience to your palate by infusing modern twists to the traditional Japanese dishes.

Location: Atlantis the Palm

Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 6 pm – 11 pm

Netsu

best Japanese restaurants in Dubai: Nestu

Chef Ross Shonhan, the mastermind behind Netsu, aims to bring all the flavour and cuisine of Japan instead of offering a one-dimensional menu. The Japanese steakhouse uses the traditional cooking of Warayaki and serves an outstanding menu of Warayaki style grills, sushi, and sashimi platters. They have an extensive wine list with around 70 labels and signature cocktails.

Location: Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah

Operating Hours: Saturday – Wednesday: 6.30 pm – 11.30 pm / Thursday, Friday: 6.30 pm – 12.30 am

Izakaya

Don’t get startled when the staff welcomes you by chorusing “irasshaimase” when you enter the restaurant. Izakaya is a casual, laid-back joint where you can enjoy the traditional teppanyaki, sushi, and more. They have a Sake Boy who comes to your table with his sake bar and the Wasabi Girl who prepares wasabi at your table.

Location: 5th floor, JW Marriott Marquis Dubai

Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 6 pm – 12 pm

Hoseki

Hoseki offers a never-before sophisticated experience. There are only 9 seats in the restaurant. You cannot walk in and ask for a menu because there is no menu. Hoseki offers the traditional omakase experience. It means the Chef Masahiro Sugiyama selects the dishes, and you turn your palates to him. Overlooking the Dubai skyline, the restaurant offers an eclectic experience that you cannot get anywhere. Pre-book a seat before you visit Hoseki.

Location: Bulgari Resort Dubai

Operating Hours: Lunch: Wednesday – Saturday: From 1 pm / Dinner: Tuesday – Saturday: 6 pm – 8.30 pm

Now, suddenly when you crave a bowl of miso soup or teppanyaki menus, you’ll know where you can turn to. If you’ve been to these amazing places, do share your experiences with us in the comment section below. If you haven’t, treat yourself to the best Japanese cuisine.