Houston, Texas is a city that is known for its diverse and multicultural food scene. Among the many cuisines that are offered, Japanese food has become increasingly popular in recent years.
From sushi to ramen, Houston is home to some of the best Japanese restaurants in the country. Whether you are a sushi fanatic or a lover of traditional Japanese dishes, there is something for everyone in Houston.
Japanese food has become a staple in Houston's culinary landscape, and it's easy to see why. The city's vibrant food scene has attracted some of the best chefs in the world, many of whom have opened their own Japanese restaurants.
These chefs bring with them a wealth of knowledge and experience, and their passion for Japanese cuisine is evident in every dish they create.
Whether you're in the mood for a casual meal or an upscale dining experience, Houston's Japanese restaurants have something to offer. From small, family-owned establishments to trendy, modern eateries, there is no shortage of options to choose from.
With so many great Japanese restaurants in Houston, it can be difficult to know where to start. But don't worry, we've got you covered. In this blog post, we'll be highlighting some of the best Japanese restaurants that Houston has to offer. So sit back, relax, and get ready to discover some of the most delicious Japanese food in the city.
1. Uchi
Uchi is an upscale Japanese restaurant that offers innovative preparations of sushi and fusion plates. The food is fresh and the service is impeccable.
The sushi bar is a great spot to sit and watch the chefs work their magic. The sake menu offers a great selection of drinks to pair with the food.
The portions are small but delicious, making it a great spot for a special occasion or a date night.
The atmosphere is sophisticated and modern, making it a great spot for a night out. If you're looking for a new experience in Japanese cuisine, Uchi is definitely worth a visit.
2. Kata Robata
Kata Robata is a modern Japanese restaurant that serves innovative sushi and small plates. The sleek and contemporary space creates a lively atmosphere for guests to enjoy their meal.
The quality of the food is exceptional, with fresh and flavorful ingredients used in every dish.
The service is attentive and knowledgeable, making the dining experience even more enjoyable.
The prices are on the higher side, but the food justifies the cost. For anyone looking for a top-quality Japanese restaurant, Kata Robata is a must-visit.
3. Soto Houston
Soto Houston is a fine dining Japanese restaurant that offers a unique culinary experience.
The restaurant's open concept allows diners to watch the chefs create their dishes, adding an extra layer of excitement to the meal. The menu offers creative and artfully plated dishes that are sure to impress.
The service is attentive and the staff is quick to clean up between courses. Although the prices are on the higher side, the quality of the food and service make it worth it.
Soto Houston is a must-visit for anyone looking for an exceptional dining experience.
4. Tamashi
Tamashi is a small and cozy Japanese restaurant that offers delicious ramen and sushi dishes. The restaurant has an authentic Japanese feel to it, with attentive staff and quick service.
The menu includes vegan and vegetarian options, making it accommodating for all dietary needs.
The ramen is a standout dish, with rich and flavorful broth and perfectly cooked noodles. The sushi is also excellent, with fresh and flavorful ingredients.
Though parking can be a bit of a challenge, the food and service are worth it. Tamashi is a great spot for a quick and satisfying meal.
5. MF Sushi
MF Sushi is a high-end Japanese restaurant that offers ultra-fresh and delicious food. The menu is simple and direct, with everything making you want to try it.
The food is complex and offers different flavors and combinations that leave you wanting more.
The service is very professional and classy, making it perfect for a fancy night out. The atmosphere is posh and modern, with furnishings and materials that are in line with high-end luxury dining.
The sushi is some of the best in Houston, and the wagyu beef is highly recommended.
6. Roka Akor – Houston
Roka Akor – Houston is an upscale Japanese restaurant and bar that serves mouthwatering sushi, sashimi, steak, and seafood in a contemporary setting.
The restaurant has a wide range of menu options, including a generous happy hour menu that is both affordable and delicious. The staff are knowledgeable and attentive, making recommendations based on the customer's preferences.
The restaurant has a great selection of cocktails, sake, and Japanese whiskey. The presentation of the dishes is artistic and imaginative.
The prices are on the higher side, but the quality of food and service are worth it. Roka Akor – Houston is a must-visit for anyone looking for an upscale Japanese dining experience.
7. Shun
Shun is a Japanese restaurant that offers high-quality seafood and innovative dishes. Their menu changes with the seasons and their staff is friendly and welcoming.
The restaurant has a cozy ambiance with fun and colorful art on the walls. They offer happy hour specials and a variety of dishes that even non-sushi lovers can enjoy.
The souffle pancakes are a must-try and the Nagoya Karaage and Tuna Crudo are highly recommended.
The handrolls steal the show and the bacon mochi and naoki roll have a crispy crunch texture. Shun is a great upmarket restaurant for Japanese fusion with interesting dishes, desserts, and drinks.
8. Nippon
Nippon is a charming Japanese restaurant that offers exceptional comfort food and great service.
The menu features familiar standards and a few unusual outliers, including sushi, sashimi, and traditional Japanese options. The staff prepares and serves traditional fare with great care in a clean, cozy atmosphere.
The serene atmosphere inside the restaurant makes it a perfect spot for a delightful traditional meal in a pleasant, conversational atmosphere.
The exceptional menu and friendly service are sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits Nippon.
9. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ is a Japanese restaurant that offers a unique dining experience. Diners cook their own meat, seafood, and veggies on individual tabletop grills.
The menu has a variety of options, including a meat lovers combo and premium menu selections.
The staff is friendly and helpful, and the atmosphere is authentic Japanese. The restaurant has outdoor seating and a 90-minute limit on the table.
The food is packed with flavor, and the salad dressing is the best one the writer has ever had. The restaurant is slightly expensive but worth the price for the experience.
10. Mamasan Sushi
Mamasan Sushi is a hidden gem that offers delicious and creative Japanese cuisine. The menu is diverse and the food is made with love, resulting in fresh and flavorful dishes.
The restaurant is clean and the staff is friendly and attentive, providing excellent service.
The prices are fair and the quality of the food stays consistent whether dining in or doing takeout.
Mamasan Sushi is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for great Japanese food in town.
11. Izakaya Hi
Izakaya Hi is a Japanese restaurant that offers a diverse selection of dishes and drinks.
The food is delicious and well-prepared, with obvious care and love put into each dish. The atmosphere is sleek and modern, with great vibes on a Friday night.
The service is professional and friendly, without being obtrusive. The pricing is lower than expected, making it a good solid value.
Izakaya Hi is definitely worth a visit for those looking for great food and service at an amazing price point in a beautiful setting.
12. Kokoro
Kokoro is a Japanese restaurant that offers an easygoing counter-service dining experience. Their menu specializes in sushi and yakitori meals.
The quality of the ingredients used in their dishes is outstanding and the flavors are expertly prepared.
The staff is attentive and personable, making customers feel welcome. The restaurant offers a variety of drinks including wine, sake, and beer.
Kokoro is a great option for those looking for delicious Japanese bites in an unpretentious setting.
13. Miyabi
Miyabi is a Japanese restaurant that offers delicious food and excellent service.
Customers rave about the fresh and flavorful sushi, as well as the tasty ramen and teriyaki dishes.
The staff is friendly and attentive, making for a charming atmosphere. Prices are reasonable for the good portions and quality of food.
Whether you're a sushi lover or looking to try something new, Miyabi is definitely worth a visit.
14. Fukuoka
Fukuoka is a hidden gem of a Japanese restaurant. With a simple decor, it offers a range of sushi rolls, nigiri, and sashimi.
The fish is always fresh and well-prepared, and the service is fast and attentive.
The staff is knowledgeable about the dishes and drinks, and they provide excellent recommendations. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous.
Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or a night out with friends, Fukuoka is definitely worth a visit.
15. Izakaya-Wa
Izakaya-Wa is a Japanese restaurant that offers a wide variety of food and a fun environment.
The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, making it easy to find something delicious to eat. The sushi is fresh and delicious, and the grilled skewers are tender and flavorful.
The outdoor seating is perfect for a neighborhood meal or a date night. While the prices can be a bit high, the quality of the food makes it worth it.
If you're looking for a great Japanese restaurant, Izakaya-Wa is definitely worth checking out.
16. Taro
Taro is a Japanese restaurant that offers a great dining experience.
The food is authentic and delicious, with a variety of options such as ramen, sushi, and buns.
The staff is friendly and welcoming, providing excellent service. The ambiance is nice and creates a comfortable atmosphere.
Highly recommended for anyone looking for a great Japanese restaurant.
17. Sushi Jin
Sushi Jin is a must-visit Japanese restaurant for sushi lovers. From the moment you walk in, the ambiance is inviting and cozy.
The menu is sushi-focused, offering a wide range of traditional and classic Japanese dishes. The restaurant has both booth and tatami mat seating, making it perfect for both intimate and group dining.
The sushi is made fresh right in front of you, and the presentation is top-notch. The service is fast and attentive, and the staff is knowledgeable about the menu.
The prices are reasonable for the quality of food and service provided. If you're looking for a great sushi experience, Sushi Jin is definitely worth checking out.
18. Yokushi Robata
Yokushi Robata is a must-visit Japanese restaurant for anyone craving authentic Japanese cuisine. The low lighting and Japanese lanterns create an ambiance that transports diners to a Tokyo-inspired eatery.
The menu is vibrant and offers a wide range of delicious dishes, including their signature ramen and charcoal-fired grilled chicken. The attentive servers make the dining experience even better.
The skewers are served hot and juicy, and the unique crisp flavor of the charcoal grill is clear. The short grain Japanese rice is steamed perfectly and served in steel containers to keep it hot, making it the perfect complement to the skewers.
Yokushi Robata is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a traditional Japanese dining experience.
