Dubai, a city renowned for its culinary diversity, has become a haven for food enthusiasts seeking authentic and innovative Japanese cuisine. From high-end establishments perched atop skyscrapers to hidden gems tucked away in residential areas, the emirate offers a rich tapestry of Japanese dining experiences. Whether you’re craving perfectly crafted sushi, soul-warming ramen, or innovative fusion dishes, Dubai’s Japanese restaurant scene has something to satisfy every palate. Join us on a gastronomic tour of the best Japanese restaurants in Dubai, where tradition meets innovation in the most delightful ways.
High-End Japanese Dining
For those seeking a luxurious Japanese dining experience, Dubai offers several world-class options that combine exquisite cuisine with stunning ambiance.
Zuma
Located in the heart of Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), Zuma has maintained its position as one of the city’s most popular Japanese restaurants for over a decade. The sleek, sophisticated decor sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. Zuma’s menu is a celebration of izakaya-style dining, featuring robata grill, sushi, and sashimi.
The must-try dish here is undoubtedly the miso-marinated black cod (Dhs241). This signature dish perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors, with the fish so tender it melts in your mouth. Given Zuma’s popularity, it’s advisable to book several weeks in advance, especially if you want to secure a prime table for dinner.
Nobu Dubai
Recently relocated to the ultra-luxury Royal Bridge Suite in Atlantis, The Palm, Nobu Dubai offers an elevated dining experience with mesmerizing views of the Palm fronds and city skyline. Founded by acclaimed chef Nobu Matsuhisa, this celebrity hotspot seamlessly blends traditional Japanese techniques with Peruvian influences.
A standout dish at Nobu is the yellowtail jalapeño (Dhs165), a perfect example of Nobu’s fusion cuisine. The combination of fresh yellowtail sashimi with a spicy jalapeño sauce creates a harmonious balance of flavors that dance on your palate.
Akira Back
Named after the Michelin-starred chef himself, Akira Back at W The Palm offers a unique dining experience that fuses together Asian flavors with Korean and American influences. The restaurant boasts breathtaking views of Dubai, setting the stage for an unforgettable meal.
Don’t miss the AB tuna pizza (Dhs140), a signature dish that showcases Chef Back’s innovative approach to cuisine. This thin, crispy pizza is topped with tuna sashimi, creating a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
Contemporary Japanese Cuisine
Dubai’s contemporary Japanese restaurants push the boundaries of traditional cuisine, offering innovative dishes and unique dining experiences.
Reif Kushiyaki
Founded by Chef Reif Othman, Reif Kushiyaki offers an unconventional approach to Japanese cuisine. The restaurant specializes in kushiyaki, focusing on different parts of the chicken – from neck to tail. With locations in Dar Wasl Mall, Time Out Market, and Dubai Hills, Reif Kushiyaki has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
A must-try dish is Reif’s Marble Bun (Dhs220), a luxurious take on the classic beef bun that showcases the chef’s creativity and attention to detail.
3Fils
This small, unassuming restaurant in Jumeirah Fishing Harbour has made big waves in Dubai’s culinary scene. Recently voted number 5 in the MENA 50 Best Restaurants list for 2023, 3Fils offers a casual dining experience with seriously good food.
One of their most intriguing dishes is the Charcoal “it’s a secret” (Dhs32). The mysterious name adds an element of surprise to your dining experience, perfectly encapsulating the playful yet refined approach of 3Fils.
Mimi Kakushi
Mimi Kakushi, located at Four Seasons Resort, transports diners to 1920s Osaka with its exotic decor and lively atmosphere. Recently named one of the World’s Best Bars, Mimi Kakushi offers a unique blend of traditional and contemporary Japanese cuisine.
The tiger prawn tempura (Dhs99) is a standout dish, featuring perfectly crisp batter encasing succulent prawns. It’s a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to high-quality ingredients and precise cooking techniques.
Ramen Specialists
For those chilly Dubai evenings (yes, they do exist!), nothing beats a steaming bowl of authentic Japanese ramen. The city boasts several specialists dedicated to perfecting this comforting dish.
Daikan
With multiple locations across Dubai, Daikan has established itself as a go-to spot for ramen lovers. They offer a variety of broth bases, from classic tonkotsu to vegetarian options, allowing diners to customize their ramen experience.
The Chef’s special ramen (Dhs65) is a must-try, featuring a rich, flavorful broth and perfectly chewy noodles topped with an array of delicious ingredients.
Kinoya
Chef Neha Mishra’s journey from hosting sold-out supper clubs to opening Kinoya is a testament to Dubai’s evolving culinary scene. Voted no.7 on the MENA 50 Best Restaurants list in 2023, Kinoya offers an authentic ramen experience in a laid-back setting.
The duck ramen (Dhs110) is a standout dish, featuring tender slices of cured duck in a rich, savory broth. It’s a perfect example of Kinoya’s commitment to quality ingredients and traditional techniques.
YUi Ramen House
Located in Dubai Design District, YUi Ramen House takes pride in its handmade noodles and high-quality ingredients sourced from Japan and local UAE farms. The attention to detail is evident in every bowl of ramen they serve.
Try the Shio Paitam (Dhs60), a salt-based ramen with a creamy chicken broth. The homemade noodles, made from scratch using Japanese flour and traditional techniques, elevate this dish to new heights.
Sushi and Sashimi Havens
No exploration of Japanese cuisine would be complete without mentioning sushi and sashimi. Dubai offers several exceptional venues for those craving these delicate dishes.
SushiSamba
Perched atop the Palm Tower, SushiSamba offers stunning views of Dubai along with its unique fusion of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cuisines. The restaurant’s triple-height ceilings and panoramic windows create a dramatic setting for an unforgettable meal.
While sushi is a must-try here, don’t miss out on the Japanese A5 Wagyu beef gyoza (Dhs92). These delicate dumplings filled with premium Wagyu beef showcase SushiSamba’s ability to elevate traditional dishes with luxury ingredients.
Origami
For a more traditional Japanese dining experience, Origami offers the option of floor seating in a minimalist, elegant setting. With multiple locations across Dubai, including Fashion Avenue Dubai Mall and Festival City, Origami is accessible to diners throughout the city.
While their sushi and sashimi are excellent, don’t overlook their cooked dishes. The cauliflower popcorn (Dhs35) is a surprise hit, offering a delightful vegetarian option that’s both crispy and flavorful.
Netsu
Located in the Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Netsu boasts the world’s fieriest grill in a restaurant – a huge Warayaki grill that burns at 900°C and shoots flames two meters into the air. This spectacle sets the stage for an exciting dining experience.
While the grill is impressive, don’t miss out on their sushi and sashimi offerings. However, if you’re in the mood for something grilled, the Wagyu short rib (Dhs350) is a show-stopper, cooked to perfection on their impressive grill.
Hidden Gems and Unique Experiences
For those seeking something truly special, Dubai offers some hidden gems that provide unique Japanese dining experiences.
Moonrise
Perched on a rooftop in Satwa, Moonrise offers an intimate omakase experience for just eight lucky diners per seating. Chef Solemann Haddad’s innovative cuisine fuses Middle Eastern and Japanese flavors, creating a truly unique dining experience.
The 11-course omakase menu (Dhs650 per person) changes regularly, ensuring a new adventure with each visit. It’s a perfect choice for those looking to explore the boundaries of Japanese cuisine.
Hoseki
For the ultimate exclusive dining experience, look no further than Hoseki. This 9-seater Michelin-starred restaurant in the Bulgari Hotel offers an omakase-only menu, where Chef Masahiro Sugiyama crafts a bespoke dining experience for each guest.
With no set menu, diners are treated to a parade of exquisite dishes based on the freshest seasonal ingredients. It’s a splurge at Dhs1,750 or Dhs2,250 per person, but for sushi aficionados, it’s an unparalleled experience.
Casual and Family-Friendly Options
For those times when you’re craving Japanese food but prefer a more casual setting, Dubai has you covered. Sumo Sushi & Bento, with multiple locations across the city, offers family-friendly dining and convenient takeaway options. Their Samurai roll (Dhs60) is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a quick Japanese fix.
Another great casual option is Wokyo, known for its delicious ramen. Their Sapporo-style ramen (Dhs59) features a rich broth slow-cooked for 10 hours, making it a comforting choice for a casual meal.
Your Japanese Culinary Adventure Awaits
From high-end restaurants with breathtaking views to hidden gems offering unique culinary experiences, Dubai’s Japanese dining scene truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re a sushi purist, a ramen enthusiast, or an adventurous eater looking to explore fusion cuisines, the city’s diverse offerings ensure that your Japanese culinary journey will be nothing short of extraordinary.
As Dubai continues to evolve as a global culinary destination, its Japanese restaurants stand out for their commitment to authenticity, innovation, and exceptional dining experiences. So why wait? Your chopsticks are ready, and an unforgettable Japanese feast awaits you in the heart of this vibrant city. Itadakimasu!
