Philadelphia is a foodie's paradise, and the city's Japanese restaurants are no exception. From sushi to ramen, there is no shortage of delicious and authentic Japanese cuisine to be found.
Whether you're a fan of traditional dishes or more modern takes on Japanese cuisine, Philly's Japanese restaurants have something for everyone.
One of the reasons why Japanese food is so popular in Philadelphia is because of the city's diverse population. Many Japanese immigrants have opened their own restaurants, bringing their unique culinary traditions with them.
Additionally, there are many non-Japanese chefs who have been trained in the art of Japanese cooking and have brought their own unique flair to the cuisine.
When it comes to Japanese cuisine, freshness is key. Many Japanese restaurants in Philadelphia pride themselves on using only the freshest ingredients, often sourced locally. This means that diners can expect to enjoy dishes that are bursting with flavor and made with the highest quality ingredients.
Whether you're in the mood for sushi, tempura, or a hearty bowl of ramen, you can be sure that the Japanese restaurants in Philadelphia will offer dishes that are both delicious and authentic. So, without further ado, let's take a look at some of the best Japanese restaurants in Philadelphia.
1. Morimoto
Morimoto serves upscale Japanese fare created by an Iron Chef in a sleek, color-changing setting.
The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about the menu items. The food is delicious, with unique seasonal sashimi combinations and excellent quality fish.
The Hot Stone Wagyu and sushi are must-tries. The prices are high, but the luxurious dining experience is worth it.
Morimoto is perfect for a special occasion or a date night.
2. Royal Sushi & Izakaya
Royal Sushi & Izakaya is a hidden gem for Japanese cuisine. The cozy, funky bar setting adds to the speakeasy feel of the restaurant.
The menu features top quality sushi, sashimi, and Japanese-inspired Izakaya dishes. The Hangar Steak and Uni Ikura bowl are standout dishes, but the rotating Chef's menu is worth keeping an eye on.
The servers are knowledgeable and friendly, and the service is impeccable. The atmosphere is moody and chill, making it a great spot for drinks and eats.
For a special treat, book a reservation for the nigiri sushi omakase, hidden behind curtains in the back. Royal Sushi & Izakaya is a must-try for anyone looking for a fun sushi experience.
3. Kyushu Ramen&Sushi
Kyushu Ramen&Sushi is a hidden gem in the city with amazing food and friendly staff.
They have a great selection of vegetarian and vegan options, and their sushi rolls are fresh and delicious.
The tonkotsu ramen is a must-try, and the spicy chicken ramen is also delicious.
The ambiance is warm and welcoming, making it a great spot for a casual dinner or takeout. Don't miss out on this great addition to the neighborhood!
4. Umai Umai
Umai Umai is a Japanese restaurant that offers inventive sushi, specialty rolls, and hot entrees in a contemporary and intimate setting.
The staff is accommodating and friendly, and the food is fresh and delicious. BYOB is allowed, which is a nice touch.
The crispy Brussels sprout salad and oyster shooters are highly recommended. The restaurant can get crowded quickly, so it's best to make a reservation ahead of time.
All in all, Umai Umai is a must-visit for sushi lovers looking for a unique dining experience.
5. Sakana Omakase Sushi
Sakana Omakase Sushi is a Japanese restaurant that serves delicious and fresh food.
The chef is friendly and careful when serving his food. They offer an excellent omakase experience at a reasonable price.
The atmosphere is quiet, and the staff is attentive and friendly.
They have recently renovated decor, and it is a great place to enjoy Japanese cuisine.
6. Seiko Japanese Restaurant
Seiko Japanese Restaurant is a hidden gem that offers delicious sushi and Japanese dishes. The staff is attentive and friendly, providing excellent service.
The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere with modern decor, making it a great spot for a date or a casual dinner. The prices are moderate, but the quality of the food is worth it.
The menu includes popular dishes like hot stone bibimbap, chicken katsu, and yaki udon. The sushi rolls are creative and tasty, with fresh and clean ingredients.
Seiko Japanese Restaurant is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for a satisfying Japanese dining experience.
7. Kinme
Kinme is a top-notch Japanese restaurant that offers a wide range of dishes, from sushi to ramen. The restaurant boasts an impressive menu of fresh and flavorful food that is sure to please any palate.
The presentation of the dishes is also noteworthy, as each one is expertly crafted and beautifully presented.
The staff is friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu, making for a delightful dining experience.
Whether you're looking for a casual lunch or an intimate dinner, Kinme is definitely worth a visit.
8. Oishii Sushi & Ramen
Oishii Sushi & Ramen is a cozy Japanese restaurant that offers a variety of small plates and mains.
The food is super fresh and tasty. The staff is friendly and provides excellent service.
The restaurant is BYOB, which is a plus. The Tonkatsu and Miso ramen are highly recommended.
If you're looking for a compact option with Japanese fare, Oishii Sushi & Ramen is the place to go.
9. Samurai Japanese Restaurant
Samurai Japanese Restaurant is a must-visit for sushi lovers. The menu offers a variety of fresh, flavorful sushi rolls and sashimi platters.
The restaurant's decor is quirky and brilliant, adding to the overall dining experience. The service is excellent, with friendly and helpful staff.
The private party rooms with state-of-the-art karaoke are perfect for special occasions. The restaurant is extremely clean and in a great location.
Prices are reasonable, making it a great value for the quality of food and service. Highly recommended for anyone looking for delicious Japanese cuisine in a fun and welcoming atmosphere.
10. 1225Raw Sushi
1225Raw Sushi offers a modern and upscale Japanese dining experience. With an array of fresh fish and sake options, this sushi bar is a must-visit for sushi lovers.
The outdoor seating is cozy and tucked away, making it a perfect spot to enjoy the delicious food and great atmosphere.
The menu has a good amount of vegetarian options, making it a great place to bring a date or hang out with friends.
The staff is knowledgeable and attentive, ensuring that customers have a great dining experience.
11. Ikki Japanese Cuisine & Bar
Ikki Japanese Cuisine & Bar is a top-notch restaurant that serves authentic Japanese cuisine. The food is fresh, light, and bursting with natural flavors.
The sushi is a must-try, and the miso soup is a perfect complement to any meal. The staff is friendly and attentive, making sure that every customer has a wonderful experience.
The restaurant is impeccably clean, and the decor is cute and perfect for a date night. The cocktails are also worth trying, especially the saketini and the Asian pear mojito.
All in all, Ikki Japanese Cuisine & Bar is a great choice for anyone looking for a delicious Japanese meal in a welcoming atmosphere.
12. Kasumi Sushi
Kasumi Sushi is a top-notch Japanese restaurant that offers fresh and delicious sushi made with high-quality ingredients.
The staff is quick, friendly, and always attentive to customers' needs.
The simple yet modern decor creates a relaxing atmosphere that is perfect for enjoying a satisfying meal.
The restaurant also offers Asian fusion dishes, Ramen, and BYOB service. Highly recommended for sushi lovers who want to indulge in an exceptional dining experience.
13. Tuna Bar
Tuna Bar is a chic Japanese restaurant with a polished sushi bar that offers a modern ambiance for its guests.
They have a great selection of beer, wine, and cocktails to accompany their delicious sushi and sashimi dishes. The restaurant is known for its fresh and high-quality fish that is well-prepared and served promptly.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, making it a great spot for a date or a night out with friends.
The Tuna Tartare appetizer is a must-try and the bone-in strip steak is a phenomenal non-sushi option. Though it may be a bit pricey, the food and drinks are worth every penny.
14. Hayashi Sushi
Hayashi Sushi is a must-visit Japanese restaurant for sushi lovers. Their menu is extensive and offers a wide variety of fresh and delicious sushi rolls.
The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring that every customer has a pleasant dining experience.
The prices are reasonable and the portions are generous. The restaurant has a cozy and relaxed atmosphere, making it perfect for a date night or a casual dinner with friends.
Whether you're a sushi aficionado or just looking to try something new, Hayashi Sushi is definitely worth a visit.
