10 Best Japanese Restaurants in Dubai: A Foodie’s Guide

Dubai is a city known for its diverse culinary scene, offering everything from traditional Emirati dishes to international cuisines. Among these, Japanese cuisine holds a special place in the hearts of many food enthusiasts. Whether you’re craving sushi, sashimi, or robata, Dubai’s Japanese restaurants promise an unforgettable dining experience.

In this guide, we’ll take you through the top 10 Japanese restaurants in Dubai as crowned in the Time Out Dubai Restaurant Awards 2024. We’ll also explore some unique dining experiences that will transport you straight to the streets of Tokyo. So, if you’re a foodie or a Japanese cuisine enthusiast, this post is for you.

Top 10 Japanese Restaurants in Dubai by Time Out

Time Out Dubai reviews anonymously and pays for all its meals, ensuring unbiased and genuine opinions. Here are the best Japanese restaurants in Dubai:

1. Mimi Kakushi

Location: Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach

Highlights: Chic 1920s Osaka-inspired ambiance, excellent sushi, robata, claypots, and grills. Their black cod is a must-try. Mimi Kakushi also offers a fantastic brunch and a Japanese-inspired bar for pre- or post-dinner drinks.

Contact: mimikakushi.ae | (04 379 4811)

  1. 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant

Location: Address Downtown

Highlights: Nestled in the shadow of Burj Khalifa, this restaurant offers beautifully presented sushi and an excellent value business lunch. Perfect for both your taste buds and Instagram feed.

Contact: 99sushibar.com | (04 547 2241)

3. Zuma

Location: Gate Village 7, DIFC

Highlights: A global sensation, Zuma offers a buzzing vibe, spot-on service, and consistently brilliant dishes like their famous black cod.

Contact: zumarestaurant.com | (04 425 5660)

4. Clap

Location: DIFC

Highlights: Funky décor, super views from the terrace, on-trend music, and a menu that covers all bases, including an excellent vegan menu.

Contact: claprestaurant.com | (04 569 3820)

5. Gohan

Location: Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Sheikh Zayed Road

Highlights: A trendy, izakaya-style spot tucked away within La Cantine du Faubourg, offering sushi, skewers, and Japanese street food-style bites.

Contact: lacantine.ae/gohan | (04 352 7105)

6. Kinoya

Location: Onyx Tower, The Greens

Highlights: A laid-back ramen bar with a come-as-you-are dress code, serving delicious ramen and skewers. Founded by Neha Mishra, it now has a branch in Harrods, London.

Contact: kinoya.com | (04 220 2920)

7. OKKU

Location: Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah Dubai

Highlights: A well-known name making a comeback, offering a fresh take on Japanese cuisine in a new location.

Contact: okku.com | (04 317 6000)

8. Akiba Dori

Location: Various locations in Dubai

Highlights: Quirky, neon-lit restaurant and bar offering tasty street food like wasabi prawns and Tokyo-style Neapolitan pizza.

Contact: (04 770 7949) | [@akibadori](https://www.instagram.com/akibadori/)

9. Akira Back

Location: W Dubai The Palm, West Crescent Palm Jumeirah

Highlights: Named after Michelin Star chef Akira Back, offering a menu that fuses Asian, Korean, and American influences. Also features separate vegan and gluten-free menus.

Contact: marriott.com | (04 245 5555)

10. Hoseki

Location: Bulgari Resort Dubai, Jumeira Bay

Highlights: A 9-seater restaurant offering a unique omakase experience with dishes selected by Chef Masahiro Sugiyama. Advanced booking is required.

Contact: bulgarihotels.com | (04 777 5307)

Tips for Finding the Best Japanese Restaurant for You

When choosing a Japanese restaurant in Dubai, consider the following:

  • Ambiance: Do you prefer a laid-back, casual setting or an upscale, chic environment?
  • Menu Variety: Look for restaurants that offer a range of dishes, from sushi and sashimi to ramen and robata.
  • Dietary Preferences: If you have specific dietary needs, opt for places that offer vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free options.

Final Words

Dubai offers a plethora of Japanese dining options, each with its unique charm and culinary expertise. From the chic ambiance of Mimi Kakushi to the quirky vibes of Akiba Dori, there’s something for every Japanese cuisine enthusiast.

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