Must-Try 11+ Famous Japanese Restaurants in Hanoi

Japanese cuisine has long been compared to a delicate art form, where the focus is on fresh ingredients, meticulous preparation, and light, natural flavors. From fresh sashimi slices to steaming bowls of ramen, everything creates a unique and one of the most appealing cuisines in the world. Right here in Hanoi, you can fully experience that flavor through the 11+ famous Japanese restaurants loved by food connoisseurs below.

List of 11 Famous Japanese Restaurants in Hanoi

1. 3 Luxurious Japanese-Style Restaurants in Hanoi

Are you looking for a place to enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine in a luxurious space imbued with the spirit of the Land of the Rising Sun? Here are 3 extremely ideal high-end Japanese restaurants in Hanoi that you can experience.

1.1. Mizumi Westlake – A Blend of Japanese Cuisine & Live Performances

Mizumi Westlake is known as a famous Japanese restaurant in the community of those passionate about Phu Tang cuisine. This place is a blend of contemporary design and panoramic views of the poetic West Lake, creating a relaxing and sophisticated setting.

Notably, this restaurant features fun and engaging Teppanyaki performances along with an inspiring Omakase culinary journey. All of this creates an authentic Japanese culinary experience where all senses are awakened.

Price Range: Mizumi Westlake offers diners a diverse menu from A La Carte, Set Menu, Omakase to Teppanyaki, suitable for private dinners as well as high-end events, including:

• Omakase: From 2,800,000 VND/person

• Teppanyaki Set: From 1,600,000 VND/person

• A La Carte: 180,000 VND - 1,200,000 VND/dish (prices may vary depending on the season and imported ingredients) 

Signature Dishes: Sushi (tuna toro, salmon, roe, sea urchin, etc.), Omakase, Sake, etc.

Actual Reviews from Customers

• Ms. Quyen Nguyen Thuc: "The two of us had a pretty good experience at Mizumi. It was during the 2/9 holiday, so the restaurant wasn't too crowded, and the staff took very good care of us. The food was beautifully presented, and the dishes were seasoned simply but just right, enough for customers to feel the freshness of the ingredients."

• Ms. Ha Anh Truong: "Super welcoming! Excellent service. The manager Mr. Tiep remembers his customers and gave us a wonderful welcome whenever we dine here. The chef Mr. Hao blends good Japanese flavors with other creations to create a balanced omakase course. Highly recommend family celebrations and date nights here."

Mizumi Westlake's cuisine is renowned for its sophistication and class - Image source: Mizumi Westlake Fanpage

1.2. Hatoyama – Renowned for Its Smoked Whale Sashimi

Hatoyama is a high-end Japanese restaurant by Chef Kyo – a talented chef who once served former Japanese Prime Minister Hatoyama and many other heads of state. Here, you will enjoy a menu of over 200 dishes meticulously prepared from the ingredients to the presentation, which can be likened to exquisite works of art. With a blend of traditional and creative Japanese styles, Hatoyama carries the mission of bringing the essence of Phu Tang cuisine closer to Vietnamese diners along with various emotional experiences.

Price Range: The average price ranges from 500,000 – 1,500,000 VND/person (depending on the type of dish and ingredients, especially imported fish and high-end sashimi).

Signature Dishes: Bluefin Tuna Belly Sashimi (Toro), Tempura, live seafood imported within 24 hours, etc.

Actual Reviews from Customers

• Ms. Huong Thao: "Good service, the restaurant specializes in sashimi, a bit few rolls, has private rooms, the price is a bit high, quite delicious. Will come back."

• Ms. Nancy Quyen: "Delicious Japanese food, very good service staff, the security guard drives to park the car for guests, holds an umbrella to shield from the sun, and provides enthusiastic guidance. The king crab dish here is my favorite. Thank you."

• Ms. Yen Nguyen Hoang: "Delicious food, elegant rooms with beautiful decor and tableware, accommodating to customers."

Hatoyama is a high-end Japanese restaurant with authentic traditional dishes - Image source: Hatoyama Fanpage

1.3. Kappou Ishida – The Essence of “Omakase” Dining

As a high-end Japanese restaurant, Kappou Ishida stands out with its top-notch culinary techniques and exquisite ingredients, offering a traditional Japanese dining experience right in the heart of the capital. Notably, this restaurant focuses on the Omakase culture – where diners entrust the chef entirely to select and prepare the dishes.

Each day, the menu changes slightly, bringing fresh surprises to diners. Along with that, the quality of the dishes is always guaranteed as they are prepared by talented and meticulous chefs using the finest ingredients.

Price Range: The Omakase menu at Kappou Ishida is designed according to different experience levels:

• Ha Long Set: 1,000,000 VND/set (lunch only)

• Saigon Set: 1,500,000 VND/set

• Hanoi Set: 2,500,000 VND/set 

Signature Dishes: Toro sashimi (tuna belly), Hokkaido sea urchin, ikura sashimi (salmon roe), seasonal grilled fish, chawanmushi (savory egg custard), Wagyu A5 beef, Japanese noodles, Temaki sushi, mochi, matcha ice cream, etc.

Actual Reviews from Customers

• Gi Chan: “Came with my partner, she insisted that this review to be a 5 stars. She love the food, quality is good and chief chef seems very dedicated and came check on us quietly couple of time through out (he didn’t talk to us directly, but had the host to check instead). The host is very friendly and professional as well. My partner really like the puffer fish pudding dessert, where as I love the chawanmushi and one of the starter with Ikura (fish roe).”

• Ms. Quynh Nguyen Thuy: "I chose the 9-course omakase, priced at 2.5 million VND per person excluding drinks, which included Wagyu A5 beef, so I was quite satisfied with the quality for this price. The staff were very enthusiastic in introducing the dishes, and at the end of the meal, they even told us the stories behind the decorations and cutlery in the restaurant."

Kappou Ishida is famous for its team of chefs with top-notch culinary skills - Image source: Kappou Ishida Fanpage

2. 3 Must-Try Sushi & Sashimi Restaurants in Hanoi

Sushi and sashimi are an important part of Japanese cuisine, known worldwide as exquisite and fresh masterpieces. Below are 3 must-try addresses if you want to enjoy authentic Japanese sushi & sashimi right in the heart of the capital.

2.1. Asahi Sushi – A Culinary Haven with 500+ Japanese Dishes

With its sushi bars, Teppanyaki grilling tables, and traditional Tatami rooms, Asahi Sushi has created a "miniature Japan" in the heart of the capital. This restaurant officially opened in 2004 and is one of the first Japanese restaurants in Hanoi. With a cozy Japanese ambiance and a top-notch culinary experience, carefully selected by head chef Yoshikawa Chikara, it has become a popular destination for many diners.

Average price: 250,000 – 600,000 VND/person (may vary depending on the dish and time).

Signature Dishes: Grilled salmon sushi, assorted sashimi, seafood tempura, teppanyaki grilled beef, Miso soup, seaweed salad, uramaki sushi rolls, etc.

Actual Reviews from Customers

• Mr. Khang Xuan: "The restaurant is very beautiful and the food is very delicious, suitable for my taste, diverse dishes, friendly staff, enthusiastic service."

• Mr. Phuc Phuc: "The noodle dishes are very delicious, my favorite is the kimchi udon noodles and spicy ramen noodles. Also, the kimchi here is delicious, some dishes like the salad are also special, the sesame dressing is fragrant, delicious, very great."

• Mr. Ph Kh: "Luxurious restaurant, enthusiastic and cheerful staff. Quality and cheap lunch sets, suitable for us office workers."

Asahi Sushi's luxurious space with authentic Japanese grilling tables - Image source: Asahi Sushi Website

2.2. New Sake – A Veteran in Hanoi’s Japanese Cuisine Scene

With its distinctive minimalist design and warm, pleasant yellow lighting, New Sake is a place you shouldn't miss if you want an interesting and authentic Japanese experience. The restaurant boasts many delicious and refined dishes, among which is the assorted sashimi with fresh slices of fish such as salmon, tuna, and octopus served with fresh wasabi, pickled ginger, and Japanese soy sauce. Everything is presented attractively, preserving its freshness and natural sweetness.

Price Range: Ranging from 149,000 - 259,000 VND/set (depending on the set and type of seafood)

Signature Dishes: Assorted sashimi, udon noodles, grilled eel rice, bento, etc.

Actual Reviews from Customers

• Ms. Phuong Anh Dinh: "The longest-standing and most consistently excellent Japanese restaurant in Hanoi. The raw food is very fresh, and the hot dishes are absolutely top-notch. Eating at New Sake is better than any other Japanese restaurant. The price range of 500,000 - 1,000,000 VND/person is comfortable because the food is very high quality."

• Ms. Kim Oanh Ngo: "One of my favorite Japanese restaurants! Beautiful space, mostly private rooms, the room for 2 people is a bit cramped. The quality of the food is beyond question, every dish is delicious, and of course, it's also expensive. Attentive and professional service, nothing to complain about."

New Sake has a team of dedicated and thoughtful staff - Image source: New Sake Fanpage

2.3. Shinbashi – Offering an Extensive Selection of Fresh Sushi

With its spacious three-story setting and prime location in the heart of Hai Ba Trung district, Shinbashi attracts a large number of diners in the capital to enjoy sashimi & sushi. Coming to Shinbashi, diners will be immersed in a cozy and gentle atmosphere along with a variety of fresh and beautifully presented dishes, not only fresh sashimi but also traditional Japanese cuisine.

Price Range: Ranging from 80,000 - 1,000,000 VND/dish (depending on ingredients and seasonal seafood)

Món ăn đặc trưng: Sashimi cá song đỏ, sashimi bào ngư, tôm hùm bỏ lò sốt nhím biển, tôm mũ ni bỏ lò, canh rong biển, súp miso, mì udon, cơm cuộn chiên giòn, cua hoàng đế, gan ngỗng Pháp, cá tuyết Nhật,...

Signature Dishes: Red grouper sashimi, abalone sashimi, lobster baked with sea urchin sauce, slipper lobster baked, seaweed soup, miso soup, udon noodles, crispy fried sushi rolls, king crab, French foie gras, Japanese cod, etc.

Actual Reviews from Customers

• Ms. Daisy Tran: "It's no coincidence that this restaurant has existed for so many years, and it doesn't need extensive advertising to still be crowded with customers."

• Mr. Kaisi Rikudo: "The food is quite delicious, and this is one of the restaurants with the best customer service I've ever experienced."

• Mr. Thanh Luan Nguyen: "More diverse types of fish than other places. The fish is fresh, firm, and retains its delicious flavor. Personally, I rate the quality around 7/10. Elegant and beautiful space."

Shinbashi with fresh sashimi made from carefully selected ingredients - Image source: Shinbashi Fanpage

3. 3 Authentic Japanese BBQ Restaurants

If you're passionate about grilled meat with a fragrant aroma over a glowing charcoal grill and rich Japanese-style dipping sauces, don't miss these 3 Japanese BBQ restaurants below. All of them perfectly recreate the spirit of Yakiniku and Izakaya in the heart of Hanoi.

3.1. Sumo Yakiniku BBQ – The Art of Japanese Grilled Meat

Sumo Yakiniku BBQ impresses with its cozy and comfortable restaurant space, reminiscent of meals in a Japanese family home. Here, talented chefs bring a unique Japanese culinary experience with authentic Japanese grilled meat dishes, combining the essence of premium ingredients and skillful preparation in every step. 

Price Range: Prices range from 149,000 VND/dish (depending on the dish). If ordering a combo, the price is around 243,000 VND/person. Especially, the buffet package is only 469,000 VND/person.

Signature Dishes: Wagyu beef, harami (Japanese skirt steak), US ribeye, salmon sashimi, herring sashimi, etc.

Actual Reviews from Customers

• Ms. Nhung Pham: "Tender and delicious meat. The staff are extremely quick and dedicated in taking care of us. The hot pot broth is a bit salty but acceptable."

• Anonymous Customer: "I went for dinner on August 30th. The meat was delicious, and the service was definitely a 10/10. There was a manager who looked like Bui Tien Dung 04 who was very attentive. He regularly checked on customers and cut and grilled meat for them. When another staff member brought out the 'che khuc bach' dessert, he even checked if the portion was enough and had a larger bowl brought to our table."

• Ms. Linh Vuong: "Luxurious restaurant space. Polite and enthusiastic staff. The meat is tender and fresh, it feels like it melts in your mouth. Will definitely come back."

Sumo Yakiniku BBQ với không gian nội thất ấm cúng - Nguồn ảnh: Fanpage Sumo Yakiniku BBQ

Sumo Yakiniku BBQ with cozy interior space - Image source: Sumo Yakiniku BBQ Fanpage

3.2. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ – Japan’s Iconic Yakiniku Chain

Gyu-Kaku is known as a leading Japanese BBQ chain with a long history (since 1996). This restaurant currently has over 700 branches worldwide, including 5 branches in Vietnam.

With the traditional Yakiniku grilling style, the restaurant offers diners fragrant grilled dishes over a glowing charcoal grill. Accompanying these are various types of Sake, Shochu, and cold beer, creating an authentic Japanese culinary space.

Price Range: Grilled hot pot buffet price from 389,000 - 800,000 VND/person (depending on time and buffet package)

Signature Dishes: Japanese Wagyu beef, fresh seafood (shrimp, squid, octopus, etc.), grilled vegetables with unique dipping sauce

Actual Reviews from Customers

• Mr. Nguyen Hung: "Quality food for the price. There are diverse choices here, from buffet to combo and individual dishes. I had the buffet and was advised on the meat according to each type of buffet, so I was quite satisfied. Those who don't eat much or have an average appetite should order a set/combo because I think the buffet is only worth it if you eat a lot."

• Mr. Van: "The restaurant has recently added some quite delicious meat dishes and has new dipping sauces. The food is served quickly, and the staff are quite attentive."

• Ms. Thao Dang: "I came to this restaurant because a Japanese friend took me. After looking into it more, I realized that this is a famous global BBQ restaurant chain with nearly 700 restaurants in 11 countries."

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ with diverse and consistently high-quality dishes - Image source: Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Fanpage

3.3. Shamoji Robata Yaki – A True Japanese Izakaya Experience

Mimicking the bustling atmosphere of Izakaya pubs, Shamoji Robata Yaki features Tuna Cutting Show performances – cutting and preparing fresh tuna directly in front of diners. Accompanying this is the straw-grilled tuna festival and grilled dishes on the Robata Yaki, promising to satisfy fans of Japanese grilled cuisine.

Price Range: Ranging from 50,000 - 300,000 VND/dish (depending on the dish)

Signature Dishes: Stir-fried soybeans with butter and garlic, mustard-pickled octopus, grilled sea fin, fermented squid paste, sashimi, salmon bento, soba noodle set with rice, pressed eel rice, etc.

Actual Reviews from Customers

• Ms. Nguyen Khanh Linh: "Everything was just right for me, cozy space, soft lighting, not too noisy. Cheerful and enthusiastic staff, even the parking attendant was very pleasant. The waiting time for food wasn't too long, and the food suited my taste."

• Ms. Dung Le: "The restaurant is mainly decorated with wood, creating a very cozy feeling. The space is quite cramped, especially the tables for 2 people where if you stretch your legs straight out, you'll block the way for other customers. The food is quite fresh, and the price is average."

• Mr. Duong Nguyen: "Delicious food, reasonable prices. Beautiful and gentle Japanese-style space. Highly recommend."

Shamoji Robata Yaki with a unique straw-grilled tuna festival - Image source: Shamoji Robata Yaki Fanpage

4. 2 Japanese Hotpot Restaurants Every Foodie Must Visit

If you're a fan of hotpots with a light and sweet broth in authentic Japanese style, premium beef, and fresh green vegetables, then don't miss these 2 genuine Japanese hotpot restaurants below. These restaurants promise to bring you an unforgettable and enticing taste experience.

4.1. Shogun – Specializing in Aromatic & Spicy Miso Kichi Hotpot

Shogun is a grilling restaurant with a warm and lively atmosphere like traditional Japanese pubs. With a diverse menu of over 100 dishes and unique flavors, since its establishment in 2015, Shogun has always been a favorite destination for many diners in the capital.

Price Range:

• Teppanyaki Grill Buffet: 529,000 VND/person

• Nomikai Grill Buffet: 459,000 VND/person

• Yatai Grill Buffet: 389,000 VND/person

• A La Carte: 50,000 - 300,000 VND/dish

Signature Dishes: Salmon belly grilled in foil, sizzling black pepper beef, California sushi with salmon filling, shabu hotpot, salmon carpaccio, stir-fried soba noodles, etc.

Actual Reviews from Customers

• Ms. Huyen Trang Tran: "The restaurant is clean, no food odor after grilling. The staff are lovely and quick on their feet when customers call."

• Ms. Huyen Tran: "Beautiful space, attentive and enthusiastic service staff. The food is served quickly, fresh, and delicious, will definitely come back."

• Mr. Hieu Minh Nguyen: "Delicious food. Clean and beautiful restaurant. Enthusiastic and proactive staff. The food is served quickly. Gentle and moderate music, suitable for couples, friends, and families. The side dishes are just as delicious as the meat. I think it's worth the money."

Shogun with meticulously and delicately prepared dishes from the hands of talented chefs - Image source: Shogun Fanpage

4.2. Wa Japanese Cuisine – Famous for Its Light Shabu-Shabu Hotpot

Finally, there's Wa Japanese Cuisine - a famous hotpot restaurant in the capital with a space that perfectly combines traditional and modern Japanese elements. This restaurant is led by Okui Satoru - a talented chef with 30 years of experience in the culinary industry, along with its unique paper hotpot (broth made from Japanese bonito flakes, Miso, and soybeans), promising to bring sophisticated and high-class culinary experiences to diners.

Price Range: Paper hotpot price ranges from 300,000 to 700,000 VND (excluding accompanying side dishes)

Signature Dishes: Bento, grilled eel rice, air-conditioned soba noodles, rice with salmon sashimi, Wa Sake hotpot, sturgeon hotpot, Japanese Wagyu beef hotpot, etc.

Actual Reviews from Customers

• Ed T: “You can expect a high end japanese dining experience here. Flavours and portions paired perfectly. The ingredients are fresh and very tasty. Quite possibly the best and most legit Japanese meal I have had in Hanoi.”

• Mr. Hung Nguyen: "A restaurant that I really like, from the food to the attentive and very nice staff. Will definitely come back for a long time."

• Ms. Ha Phan: "The restaurant space is very impressive, the food is delicious, and the service staff are knowledgeable and very enthusiastic."

Wa Japanese Cuisine with a luxurious and modern restaurant space - Image source: Wa Japanese Cuisine Fanpage

5. Hanoi’s Food Streets – Where to Find Affordable & Authentic Japanese Eats

Hanoi's five vibrant food streets, where you can find countless enticing flavors from all over the world, including distinctive Japanese dishes at affordable prices:

• Hang Buom Food Street: Besides traditional Vietnamese dishes, you can enjoy Japanese dishes like tempura (battered and fried vegetables), takoyaki (octopus balls), etc.

• Ngo Ao Sen (Ao Sen Alley): The "culinary paradise" of Ha Dong district, famous for delicious snacks like sushi and maki at affordable prices, suitable for students' budgets.

• Gia Lam Food Street: A newly active food street that operates almost around the clock with hundreds of diverse stalls selling many regional specialties, including stalls serving Japanese dishes such as ramen, sushi, and Yakitori grilled items.

• Alley 67 Phung Khoang: A familiar destination for students with countless snack shops serving affordable popular Japanese dishes such as mixed rice, udon noodles, or simple types of sushi and maki at reasonable prices.

6. Japanese Culinary Exploration Suggestions Tailored for You

Do you want to enjoy Japanese cuisine but don't know which authentic restaurant to choose? A delicate Japanese hotpot with bonito flake broth or rich BBQ with flavorful marinades? Below are some regional Japanese culinary suggestions to help you easily explore according to your preferences.

Thus, above are 11+ famous Japanese dining spots in Hanoi. From fresh sashimi and rich BBQ to unique delicate paper hotpot, these places are all ready to satisfy your palate. And if you want to fully enjoy exploring the essence of Phu Tang cuisine, you can choose a culinary tour with Joytime to start your journey with us!