The Best Japanese Restaurants in Dubai

Established over a decade ago, Zuma Dubai remains one of the best restaurants for Japanese cuisine in Dubai. Its chic ambience mirrors the sophistication of its menu, drawing crowds for lunch, dinner, and drinks alike. Renowned globally, Zuma caters to a diverse clientele, from business professionals to brunch enthusiasts and couples seeking a romantic evening out.

The menu boasts iconic dishes like their legendary black cod, along with offerings from the expansive robata grill and exquisite sushi and sashimi selections. Post-meal, patrons can unwind at the bar, which is recognized among the top 50 bars in the world. Zuma Dubai embodies the epitome of fine dining, consistently delivering an unforgettable experience and solidifying its status as one of the best Japanese restaurants in Dubai.

Address: Podium Level, Gate Village, Building 3 - 06 Al Mustaqbal St - Trade Centre - DIFC - Dubai

ROKA, an extension of the culinary team behind Zuma, is the go-to spot for expertly grilled Japanese cuisine. Specializing in robatayaki, this restaurant and bar offers divine options for both meat lovers and vegetarians. Dine al fresco on the terrace, enjoying sumptuous black cod and lamb cutlets with stunning Burj Khalifa views. Alternatively, indoor seating provides a minimalist ambience, allowing patrons to observe skilled chefs in the open robata kitchen and write a note to the wish tree. ROKA brings contemporary Japanese robatayaki cuisine and urban design to Downtown Dubai, marking its international debut shortly after the flagship restaurant's fifteenth anniversary on Charlotte Street.

Address: The Opus by Omniyat Level 1 - Business Bay - Dubai

Celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa's creations have attracted a star-studded clientele, including celebrities like the Kardashians and Robert De Niro over the years and it'd be wrong to make a list of the best Japanese restaurants in Dubai without mentioning this internationally renowned restaurant chain. Nobu's Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine is a highlight in Dubai's culinary scene, drawing patrons to its recently reopened location at Atlantis on the 22nd floor.

The sleek refurbishment offers five distinct dining areas, including a stunning bar and terrace with panoramic views. While maintaining classics like Black Cod Miso and Yellowtail Jalapeño, the updated menu introduces tantalizing new dishes such as roasted duck with orange miso and caviar potato wasabi, ensuring Nobu remains a top destination for A-listers and food enthusiasts alike.

Address: Atlantis - 22nd floor - The Palm Jumeirah - Dubai

Stepping into Mimi Kakushi, you're immediately immersed in its cool ambience. A creation by the team behind several esteemed restaurants in Dubai it draws inspiration from Japan's jazz age, boasting rich textures, hand-painted walls, and Instagram-worthy stained-glass windows while offering a diverse menu.

Patrons are spoiled for choice with authentic Japanese gyoza, sushi, black cod, and wagyu beef. Mimi Kakushi's culinary excellence was recognized with Time Out Dubai's award for Best Japanese Restaurant in 2022, solidifying its reputation as one of Dubai's best Japanese restaurants.

Address: Four Seasons Resort - 23A St - Jumeirah - Jumeirah 2 - Dubai

If you're craving top-notch sushi, look no further than 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant. Nestled within the Address Downtown, this Abu Dhabi import exudes sophistication and sleekness, perfectly complementing its setting near the iconic Burj Khalifa. While sushi is the star of the show, the menu also offers tantalizing Japanese options like spicy tuna tartare and buttery black cod. 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant delivers an unparalleled dining experience, making it a must-visit destination for sushi enthusiasts in Dubai.

Address: Address Downtown, Downtown Dubai

Food enthusiasts familiar with DIFC's food scene will definitely recognize Clap Dubai, a rooftop eatery offering stunning views of Downtown Dubai. Positioned as the highest spot in the area, it provides an equally enchanting ambience indoors and is one of the best Japanese restaurants in Dubai.

After indulging in its amazing food, guests can discover the secretive Ongaku, accessed through a mysterious red door. Ongaku, meaning 'music' in Japanese, channels the vibrant energy of Tokyo's nightlife, offering a high-octane late-night experience for patrons seeking a unique twist to their evening out.

Address: The Exchange, Gate Village 11, Dubai International Financial Centre

With three vibrant locations across Dubai - D3, Dubai Hills Mall, and Pavilion at the Beach, JBR - Akiba Dori transports guests straight into the lively backstreets of Tokyo. Inspired by Akihabara's anime culture, this quirky restaurant and bar injects a playful spirit into Dubai's dining scene with neon lights and cool designs, setting the scene as patrons indulge in a variety of tasty Japanese street food, including wasabi prawns, Akiba rock shrimp, and their iconic Tokyo-style take on Neapolitan pizza. Akiba Dori offers a unique culinary experience, blending Japanese influences with a hint of cosmopolitan flair.

Address: Dubai Design District | Dubai Hills Mall | Pavilion at the Beach JBR

Named after the esteemed Michelin Star chef, Akira Back restaurant at W The Palm offers a luxurious Japanese dining experience with stunning views of Dubai. Chef Akira Back's menu blends Asian flavours with Korean and American influences, reflecting his adventurous personal journey from pro snowboarder to professional chef.

The restaurant provides separate vegan and gluten-free menus, ensuring inclusivity for all guests and diners can expect creative Japanese cuisine infused with Korean and international flavours. Featuring a bright, modern ambience with raised alcoves and a magical terrace overlooking the city skyline, Akira Back boasts attentive staff who are adept at making recommendations and is a must-try if you're on the hunt for some amazing Japanese food in Dubai.

Address: W Dubai – The Palm, Palm Jumeirah

Meaning "gemstone" in Japanese, Hōseki is a minimalist culinary jewel perched on Dubai's billionaire island - Jumeirah Bay Island. Located on the 4th floor of the Bulgari Resort, this exclusive dining destination boasts just nine seats, offering a unique Omakase experience curated by Chef Masahiro Sugiyama himself where Guests surrender their palates to the chef's creative whims after entering through a special Tokonoma entry room.

Hōseki is also renowned as one of Dubai's most expensive restaurants, offering a gastronomic journey into Japanese culinary traditions against the glittering backdrop of the Dubai skyline. It is the only Japanese restaurant in Dubai that has a Michelin star and it also holds the 26th position on The World's 50 Best Restaurants in the Middle East & North Africa 2023.

Address: 4th Floor, Bulgari Resort, Jumeirah Bay Island

Introduced to Dubai's dining scene in 2022 at St. Regis Business Bay, TABŪ Dubai elevates Japanese cuisine with a theatrical twist and artistic finesse cementing its position among the best Japanese restaurants in Dubai. Located on the 23rd floor, it offers stunning views of the city skyline and the Burj Khalifa promising a sophisticated avant-garde culinary journey, complete with cool interiors that have garnered lots of insta-fame.

This unique dining destination invites guests to experience Japanese food in a whole new light, combining unexpected flair with culinary excellence amidst the vibrant backdrop of Dubai.

Address: St. Regis, Business Bay

Dubai's culinary landscape is a melting pot of Japanese cuisine, offering a diverse range of dining experiences that cater to every preference. From traditional sushi bars to avant-garde fusion establishments, the city boasts an impressive array of Japanese restaurants that showcase the rich and diverse flavours of Japan. Whether seeking authentic dishes or innovative creations with a local twist, Dubai's top Japanese eateries promise a culinary journey like no other. So whether you're a sushi aficionado, a lover of Teppanyaki, or simply craving the bold flavours of Japanese cuisine, Dubai has something to satisfy every craving.