Dubai has seen a notable surge in the popularity of Japanese cuisine. Marked by a diverse array of restaurants that offer genuine Japanese experiences blending tradition and innovation.
Table Of Content
- The peak of absolute perfection.
- 1. Zuma Dubai – $$$ – The Victorious Champion
- 2. Fujiya Downtown – $$$$ – Second Place
- 3. Mimi Kakushi – $$$ – Third Place
- Praiseworthy Mentions
- 4. Wagamama – $$
- 5. Kinoya – $$
- 6. Clay Dubai – $$$$
- 7. Wawa Dining – $$
- 8. TakaHisa – $$$
- 9. 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant Dubai – $$$$
- 10. Kiku – $$
- FAQ
- Is there Japanese cuisine in Dubai?
- What Japanese restaurants cook in front of you in Dubai?
- Are there Japanese restaurants with private rooms in Dubai?
- How many Japanese people live in Dubai?
- Is Japanese food popular in Dubai?
- What should I order at an authentic Japanese restaurant in Dubai?
- What are the most affordable Japanese restaurants in Dubai?
In recent decades, Japanese culinary influence in Dubai has evolved from a niche to a pivotal aspect of the city’s gastronomic character. Whether it’s the charm of traditional sushi spots or the modern allure of izakayas, these establishments cater to both seasoned enthusiasts and those new to the cuisine. Enriching Dubai’s dining scene with a harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary flavors.
Prominent areas like DIFC, Downtown Dubai, and JBR have become focal points for Japanese gastronomy, boasting picturesque settings and a concentration of celebrated restaurants. Dubai’s discerning diners, known for their insatiable appetite, gravitate towards classics such as sushi, sashimi, and ramen. Meanwhile, innovative offerings like teppanyaki, udon noodles, and tempura showcase the diversity and creativity within the Japanese culinary repertoire. Thanks to these distinctive and unforgettable dining experiences, specific Japanese restaurants in Dubai have risen as triumphant leaders in culinary excellence. Let’s take a look at the top Japanese restaurants Dubai has to offer.
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The peak of absolute perfection.
1. Zuma Dubai – $$$ – The Victorious Champion
Zuma Dubai, situated in the heart of the city’s bustling International Financial Centre, is an iconic culinary destination housed within the world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa. Renowned for its contemporary Japanese cuisine, Zuma Dubai offers a sophisticated dining experience that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. The restaurant’s ambience is a testament to modern elegance, featuring steel and granite decor that complements the sleek surroundings.
At Zuma Dubai, the menu is a culinary journey through the best of Japanese flavors, showcasing a diverse range of dishes. Meticulously crafted sushi, tantalizing grill items, and delectable sharing plates are only a few of their exceptional offerings. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and authenticity is evident in every dish, creating a memorable dining experience for patrons seeking an immersive taste of Japan. Zuma Dubai stands as a premier destination for those seeking a sophisticated and flavorful dining experience in one of the world’s most iconic settings.
Top Dishes:
- Starter: Piri Karai Edamame
- Main Course: The Black Cod
- Dessert: Mocha Bamboo
How to Visit: Podium Level – Gate Village 06 – Al Mustaqbal St – Trade Centre – DIFC – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact: +97144255660
2. Fujiya Downtown – $$$$ – Second Place
Fujiya Downtown in Dubai captures the essence of an authentic izakaya. Resonating with the lively sounds of skewers sizzling, laughter, and the tempting aroma of dishes like yakitori. Sourced directly from Japan, their culinary excellence showcases premium ingredients. Offering a diverse range from fresh sashimi to Wagyu prepared in Japanese BBQ and yakiniku styles. Indulge in exquisite sushi, flavorful ramen, and communal hotpot and shabu-shabu experiences. Elevate your gastronomic journey with carefully paired premium sake, heightening the celebration of tradition and taste in every delightful bite.
Where authenticity and culinary excellence harmonize.
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Top Dishes:
- Starter: Edamame – Miso Soup
- Main Course: Japanese BBQ – Wagyu Beef
- Dessert: Fried Banana with Ice Cream
How to Visit: Swiss Hotel – Al Mustaqbal St – Trade Centre – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact: +97145477171
3. Mimi Kakushi – $$$ – Third Place
Mimi Kakushi in Dubai is not just a restaurant; it’s a culinary revolution challenging traditional norms and ushering in a new golden era reminiscent of 1920s Osaka. With the mantra “Independent, expressive, limitless,” it marries Eastern flavors with a touch of Western influence. The menu boasts hot and cold sharing plates featuring a tantalizing array of sashimi, sushi, tempura, and gyoza. Including signature dishes, such as their popular oven-baked black cod and Kagoshima Wagyu beef. An epitome fusion of flavors that redefine the dining experience boldly and innovatively. Mimi Kakushi invites diners on a journey where tradition meets innovation, leaving an indelible mark on Dubai’s culinary scene.
Independent, expressive, limitless
Mimi Kakushi
Top Dishes:
- Starter: Rock Shrimp Popcorn Tempura
- Main Course: Yakitori – Baked Bone Marrow
- Dessert: Kori-Kori Chocolate Mi-Cuit
How to Visit: Restaurant Village – Four Seasons Resort – Jumeirah Beach Road – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact: +97143794811
Praiseworthy Mentions
4. Wagamama – $$
This casual Japanese-inspired restaurant, renowned for its communal atmosphere, has been a culinary staple since the launch of its first noodle bar in 1992. With the mantra “simple spaces…nourishing you from bowl to soul,” it commits to straightforward dining experiences that foster both satisfaction and community. Embracing simplicity and an open kitchen concept, the restaurant offers a unique blend of Japanese-inspired dishes. Notably, they go beyond the dining table, extending their charm to the younger generation through kids’ cooking classes, creating a wholesome and inclusive environment for families to enjoy and learn together.
5. Kinoya – $$
Nestled in Dubai, Kinoya stands as a warm haven for Japanese culinary enthusiasts, offering an informal and welcoming Izakaya and Ramen dining experience. Renowned for its comforting Onsen Tamago, flavorful Dashi, and delightful Omurice, Kinoya embraces authenticity and tradition in every dish. The restaurant also boasts the sale of culinary treasures like Donabe. In a remarkable achievement, Kinoya was honored with a prestigious Michelin star in 2022. A testament to its commitment to delivering an exceptional and award-worthy dining experience in the heart of Dubai.
6. Clay Dubai – $$$$
Clay offers a captivating culinary journey with its distinctive Nikkei cuisine—a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavors crafted from the cultural intermingling of migrants over the years. Beyond its innovative menu, the restaurant boasts a unique interior, blending lively South American colors with sleek Japanese black timber. Noteworthy is the artistic touch provided by the hanging bead installation, inspired by the Japanese soroban. Clay’s culinary excellence is further underscored by their accomplishments such as the FACT Dining Award for Best Team 2022 and the 2022 Leaders In F&B Award.
For a moment, let us forget what we have lost and focus on what we have created.
Clay Dubai
7. Wawa Dining – $$
Wawa Dining, a Contemporary Japanese Izakaya, seeks to evoke the exclamation ‘Whoa’ with each unforgettable dining experience. Fusing modernized Korean-infused Japanese cuisine, known as ‘JAKO (Japanese/Korean),’ with a brilliant selection of spirits. WAWA is not merely a dining and drinking destination but a studio-type cultural hub. It caters to the modern trend of social media, offering more than just a culinary experience. Their recognition, including the Fact Dining Awards for ‘Japanese Casual Dining’ Favorite, highlights Wawa Dining as a standout destination.
8. TakaHisa – $$$
Discover the epitome of Japanese culinary luxury at TakaHisa Japanese Restaurant in Dubai. This dining haven seamlessly combines premium authentic sushi and the world’s finest wagyu beef for an unparalleled gastronomic experience. TakaHisa has been recognized in the 2023 Michelin Guide and honored with two toques in the Gault & Millau UAE 2023 listings. Offering fine dining, while showcasing the chef’s exclusive selection of seasonal ingredients for each guest. Immerse yourself in a special Omakase course at the Sushi and Kobe beef counter, where Master Chefs craft a Japanese culinary masterpiece unique to the Middle East. With premium seafood sourced from Toyosu Market and the renowned “A5 Kobe beef,” TakaHisa stands as a symbol of culinary excellence.
9. 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant Dubai – $$$$
99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant Dubai caters to a discerning clientele with its custom-made space. Offering not only a culinary delight but also an exceptional hand-picked wine list featuring over 300 references. Renowned as a major benchmark venue for Japanese cuisine, it boasts an optimal cost-quality ratio. The sushi, prepared before diners’ eyes at the restaurant bar, showcases rare fish and sea urchins, creating an immersive and exquisite dining experience.
10. Kiku – $$
At Kiku in Dubai, the essence of centuries-old Japanese culinary heritage comes alive through a unique fusion of imported ingredients. From Tsukiji market’s Otoro and Akami to Hokkaido’s fresh Uni, the menu is a journey through Japan’s finest. The award-winning team curates traditional favorites like Gindara Misozuke and Nodoguro, alongside signature delicacies such as Kaisen Bento. Seasonal offerings like Soramame, Hotaru Ika, and Ayu add a touch of authenticity, subtly adapted to complement Kiku’s distinct dining ambience. Indulge in a culinary adventure where every dish reflects the meticulous craftsmanship and dedication to preserving Japan’s flavors, right here in the heart of Dubai.
FAQ
Is there Japanese cuisine in Dubai?
Yes, Japanese cuisine is available in Dubai, with a variety of restaurants offering authentic and contemporary Japanese dishes.
What Japanese restaurants cook in front of you in Dubai?
Teppanyaki-style Japanese restaurants in Dubai often feature live cooking stations where skilled chefs prepare meals right in front of diners, offering an interactive and entertaining dining experience.
Are there Japanese restaurants with private rooms in Dubai?
Yes, many Japanese restaurants in Dubai offer private dining rooms, providing an intimate and exclusive setting for patrons seeking a more private and personalized dining experience.
How many Japanese people live in Dubai?
A thriving community of close to 4,000 Japanese residents has found its place in the UAE, and Dubai stands out as the primary hub with over 2,000 individuals. Making Dubai the largest Japanese community in the Arab world.
Is Japanese food popular in Dubai?
Yes, Japanese food is quite popular in Dubai. The city has seen a growing appreciation for Japanese cuisine, with numerous restaurants offering a diverse range of authentic and contemporary Japanese dishes. Sushi, sashimi, ramen, and teppanyaki are particularly well-received.
What should I order at an authentic Japanese restaurant in Dubai?
Give fresh sushi a try, comforting ramen, artfully prepared tempura, teppanyaki, yakitori skewers, or delightful matcha desserts for a diverse culinary experience.
What are the most affordable Japanese restaurants in Dubai?
The top affordable Japanese restaurants in Dubai are Wokyo Noodle Bar JLT, JBR Sushi Art and Ichikura.
From traditional settings to contemporary fusions, these establishments contribute to Dubai’s diverse and vibrant gastronomic landscape. They offer unforgettable experiences for all enthusiasts of Japanese cuisine.
What is your favorite Japanese cuisine? Let us know in the comments section below.
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