You’re spoilt for choice in Dubai when it comes to Japanese food! Here’s a quick rundown of some of the best, casual, pocket-friendly spots that serve up authentic dishes like yakitori, gyoza, teppanyaki, ramen and so much more in Dubai. Check it out.

3 Fils:

Opened at the Jumeirah Fishing Harbour, this petit sized hidden gem (back in the day) was the best fusionized Japanese restaurant. All you had to do was walk in and enjoy a delicious meal. As time went by, it became bigger and busier. Finding a spot at this un-licensed, no-reservation restaurant became a challenge as the team ensured that everyone who stepped in as a customer, left as a loyalist by just enjoying their fabulous service and food. Though it is a super simple, super casual place, you’ll never get over it. There’s absolutely nothing on the menu that’s not worth trying and loving…probably that’s one of the reasons why 3 Fils recently ranked #5 in the MENA 50 Best Restaurants 2023 list. The Salmon Carpaccio that offers wafer-thin slices of salmon with a tangy dressing and Indomie that’s spicy, instant, flavor-packed and oh-so-delicious are my favorites.

Bentoya:

One of the oldest and longest-serving authentic Japanese restaurants located on Sheikh Zayed Road, Bentoya, is brilliant. You’ll find authentic options, unique grills, flavorful katsu curry and one of the best Okonomiyaki – a savory Japanese pancake with delicious fillings.

Hanami:

Hanami is the perfect Japanese restaurant perched atop the 15th floor of the Andaz Dubai The Palm that brings the magic of Tokyo’s bustling streets to Dubai with its contemporary street-food creations and boozy concoctions. It is every bit exciting and Instagram-worthy – both, for its food and views! From flavorful appetizers, sushis, tempura to teppanyaki – the menu is a delightful selection of irresistible dishes.

Kimura-ya

A well-acclaimed Japanese restaurant located at the Anantara Downtown Dubai Hotel is a favorite amongst sushi and shabu-shabu lovers in the city. Popularly known as Kimura-ya, this licensed hotspot offers traditional tastes with tantalizing flavors in a vibrant, cheerful atmosphere. Whether you’re in the mood for light bites like gyozas, takoyaki or sandos, sumptuous sushis and sashimis, freshly grilled skewers, yakitori, fried tempuras or soulful soups and curries – be sure to find it here!

Kinoya:

Is today one of those days when all you want is a bowl of ramen? If yes, Kinoya is where you need to go! Located at the Onyx Tower 2, it’s a licensed izakaya with a ramen bar, dining rooms and private chef’s table. This simple spot provides an unforgettable dining experience and has recently been rated #7 on the MENA’s 50 Best Restaurant List 2023.

Reif Japanese Kushiyaki:

Whether you are at Dar Wasl Mall or not, you’ve got to stop everything you are doing and plan a meal to Reif Japanese Kushiyaki, a homegrown eatery that’s surely worth your time. Started by Chef Reif Othman, this casual outlet has made it to No.11 amongst MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants 2023. It’s pocket-friendly and offers everything you are looking for. From street food skewers cooked over the robata grill, sushi, sashimi, katsu sandos, hearty meats, 18 hrs silky ramen to the best ever mushroom claypot rice with tempura – it will surely make its way to your heart.

Wawa Dining:

WAWA – a Japanese exclamation for ‘Whoa,’ located at the Golden Tulip Hotel in Al Barsha 1, offers a lovely dining experience, staying true to its name. With a great selection of spirits and deliciously modernized flavors, this Japanese Izakaya style diner has everything you’re looking for. While you’re there, enjoy their Maki Rolls and Yakisoba Noodles.

YUi:

Located in D3, YUi is known to create the best handmade ramen. It offers a variety of different bowls that you can pick and choose as per your choice. But if you’re confused, go for the top-selling Tantanmen Ramen which is soaked together in a rich sesame peanut-seasoned broth with minced miso chicken, egg, bok choy, spring onion, peanuts, chili oil and shredded chili that makes this dish a delicious Japanese version of the famous Dan Dan Noodles.