The Best Japanese Restaurants in Brisbane

Takashiya, located in Isle of Capri on the Gold Coast, offers an elevated Japanese dining experience rooted in tradition and precision. Chef Takashi Nami presents an intimate omakase journey showcasing the finest seasonal seafood, delicately prepared and artfully presented. Highlights include bluefin tuna sashimi, wagyu nigiri, and yuzu-marinated ocean trout, paired expertly with premium sake or Japanese whisky. The minimalist, elegant space seats just a handful of diners, creating a serene and immersive experience. With a focus on balance, respect for ingredients, and mindful hospitality, Takashiya is a refined culinary gem for true sushi connoisseurs.

Descending from Amazonian influence, Soko Rooftop delivers a decadent rooftop restaurant experience bringing a sophisticated, exotic dining event filled with drama and elevated style to Brisbane's Fortitude Valley bar scene. Soko's Peruvian & Japanese menu is complimented by a wine and sake list that has been specially curated to compliment the unique flavours of each dish. Boasting a cocktail menu filled with over 40 flavours of Pisco Sours, delivering a contemporary twist on traditional flavours using a heavy sake and yuzu influence.

Shunsai is a hidden gem of Japanese dining beneath The Wellington, where chef Shun Mori showcases the art of kaiseki through seasonal multi-course menus. On the menu, you'll find light broths, fresh sashimi, grilled fish, wagyu and tempura, each dish brimming with precision and technique. The space is intimate, with pale timbers, soft lighting and ikebana flowers setting the tone. With sake or shochu in hand and a seat at the sushi bar, this is dining that celebrates craft, calm and flavour.

Visit a little piece of Japan, at Yoko perched in the historic Howard Smith Wharves, Brisbane. Refined and casual, graze on fresh nigiri pieces while overlooking the river, or go all out and enjoy the 12- course Yoko feast featuring some of the best items on the menu. Modern and fresh expect zesty punches of yuzu, the subtle umami in the miso and the lively vibrance of the double-storey venue. Yoko can host private events and functions

Inspired by street food of Japan and influenced by the best local produce Australia has to offer, indulge in a delicious menu designed to blend both cuisines effortlessly. Boasting authentic sashimi and yakitori plates, as well as bold dishes curated by Executive Chef Jake Nicolson and Head Chef Zac Sykes. Paired with an innovative beverage menu, showcasing cocktails expertly mixed by Brisbane's best bartenders, wines sourced by award winning sommeliers and the finest beer, whiskey & sake imported from Japan. Descend the steps into The Boom Boom Room and leave the world above behind.

Hideki is a sleek, subterranean Japanese dining bar nestled in Burnett Lane, bringing refined izakaya-style dining to the Brisbane CBD. The minimalist space pairs warm timber with moody lighting, setting the tone for dishes that focus on purity and precision. The menu features wagyu tataki, fresh sashimi, grilled yakitori skewers, and house-made gyoza. A curated drinks list offers sake, Japanese whisky, and elegant cocktails infused with matcha and yuzu. Hideki’s calm, intimate setting and meticulous attention to detail make it an ideal destination for a quiet dinner, late-night bite, or refined city rendezvous.

Irasshaimase is your warm greeting upon landing in the Birds Nest West End. This welcome is extended with the provision of damp hand towels and complimentary chicken broth. Your attention will be taken by chefs behind a glass wall, diligently preparing your yakitori chicken on skewers. Grilled to order over white hot charcoal from Japan. A striking ceiling mural of Brisbane will catch your gaze. Communal dining tables will make you friends.

Nonbei Sake Bar & BBQ delivers an authentic Japanese izakaya experience in the heart of Fortitude Valley. Known for its atmospheric charm and extensive sake list boasting over 40 varieties - the venue offers premium Japanese BBQ and comforting hot pot dishes. Signature bites like wagyu beef tataki, and aburi unagi are matched with traditional izakaya sides, creating a warm, communal dining experience. With Japanese beer and creative cocktails on hand, it's an ideal spot for both casual nights out and special gatherings.

Kenjin Restaurant in Brisbane offers a seamless fusion of fine dining and nightlife, beginning with an elevated modern Japanese dining experience at Kenjin Dining. Here, traditional techniques meet inventive flavours, drawing culinary inspiration from Japan, wider Asia, and Australia. Guests are transported to the vibrant streets of Japan through both atmosphere and cuisine. Once dinner is done, the experience continues next door at Kenjin Afterdark - an energetic late-night venue featuring world-class DJs, live entertainment, and an electric ambience. Whether you're after sophisticated flavours or a night to remember, Kenjin delivers both in style.

Hikari offers a relaxed dining experience with a trendy ambiance, featuring a terrace perfect for enjoying noodles, dumplings, sashimi, and sake. Led by Chef Joon, who brings extensive experience in French, Italian, and Japanese cuisines, Hikari blends the Japanese pub experience (Izakaya) with traditional Japanese food (Washoku). Each dish honours these traditions while being tweaked for broader appeal, making the menu approachable for everyone.

 

Photography: Courtesy of Hikari