Japanese cuisine is known for its delicate flavors, and many dishes are served raw or lightly cooked. Sushi is one of the most popular options, while other popular dishes include tempura (battered and fried vegetables or seafood), miso soup, and noodles. Canberra is home to some of the finest Japanese restaurants in the country, from great sushi places, fine dining restaurants and teppanyaki bars. In this article, we will take a look at some of the best Japanese restaurants in Canberra and what makes them stand out from the competition.
Skip to the list of Canberra's best Japanese restaurants
- Akiba
- INKA Canberra
- Iori
- Lazy Su
- Mu
- Raijin Japanese Cuisine
- Shin Sen Teppanyaki
- Raku
What makes a great Japanese restaurant?
There are many factors that contribute to a great Japanese restaurant.
- The first is the quality of the ingredients. Fresh, high-quality fish and other meat, rice, and vegetables are essential for creating authentic Japanese dishes.
- The second is the cooking methods used. Traditional Japanese cuisine often relies on techniques like grilling, steaming, and stir-frying to bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- The third is the presentation of the food. In Japan, great attention is paid to the appearance of each dish, and this attention to detail is reflected in the way the food is served.
- Finally, the atmosphere of the restaurant is also important. A great Japanese restaurant should have a calm and relaxing atmosphere that makes diners feel at ease.
When all of these elements come together, they create a dining experience that is truly memorable.
Traditional or modern Japanese cuisine?
The debate between traditional and modern cuisine is one that has been going on for centuries, and it shows no signs of slowing down any time soon. Each side has its own fervent supporters, and there are plenty of arguments to be made for both styles of cooking.
Traditional Japanese cuisine is often lauded for its simplicity and focus on seasonal ingredients. In contrast, modern Japanese cuisine is often praised for its creativity and use of innovative techniques.
Of course, there are also drawbacks to both styles of cuisine. Traditional Japanese cuisine can sometimes be heavy and greasy, while modern Japanese cuisine can be prohibitively expensive. Ultimately, the decision between traditional and modern Japanese cuisine comes down to a matter of personal preference.
Some people prefer the classic flavors of traditional dishes, while others enjoy the more experimental approach of modern chefs. Whichever side you find yourself on, there's no doubt that Japanese cuisine is some of the best in the world.
The best Japanese restaurants in Canberra 2024
To be listed as one of Canberra’s best, Canberra Daily requires them to have maintained a track record of positive reviews on Google and Facebook, with a minimum average of 4/5 stars. The Google ratings shown were updated January 2023.
When looking for tasty Japanese food in Canberra, check out our list of Canberra Daily’s best local restaurants below.
Akiba
AKIBA takes its inspiration from the informal and exciting atmosphere of great food halls and dining rooms throughout the East-Asia region.
The food showcases the many styles of Asian barbecue, raw bar and modern day Dim Sum, and demonstrates a dazzling array of fresh flavours.
Caleb Doherty left this five star review on Google; “The food was incredible. The Potato’s and buns were the highlight, but really it was all fantastic! This place has a really good vibe and the service was great.”
INKA Canberra
Located in the heart of the city, INKA Canberra offers a combination of both Japanese and Peruvian cuisines.
Their menu features a wide range of delicious options, with dairy free, gluten free, vegetarian and vegan options available.
Mike Holland left this glowing five star Google review; “I love this place. Amazing decor and ambience, great service and, of course, great food and wine. We had the tasting menu and muscadet (recommended by their somelier). After dinner, we relaxed in the bar.”
Lazy Su
On Google, James Arvanitakis left this five star review; “Such a great place… great vibe and creative menu. Excellent service. Try the dumplings! Amazing! Can’t wait to come back!”
Mu
Mu is an intimate Japanese restaurant where diners are served a degustation of dishes consisting of fresh fish, quality meat and other local seasonal produce.
They currently offer two types of seating options, a private table, or a spot at the counter table where you can dine Japanese style and share the experience with a small group of other diners.
Katherine Lee left this review on Google; “An incredible experience! Loved every single course from the 13 course menu. Very well thought out flavours. The staff were the absolute sweetest! The drinks were as incredible as the meals. I can’t wait until we get an opportunity to come back.”
Raijin Japanese Cuisine
Tucked away at the quiet McKellar shops, Raijin is local favourite offering delicious Japanese food in a nice, pleasant environment.
The menu features many favourites such as sushimi, tempura and ramen, while they also have an inventive black curry to try.
Drew Cooper left this positive review on Google; “Such a little gem hidden away in the burbs. The food is amazing, the flavours are outstanding. The service is great, quick and comes with a smile. Byo if you want.. just be aware that it is small so ring before hand or take away. You won’t be disappointed.”
Raku
RAKU combines the precision of Japanese culinary history with the vibrant energy of modern Australian dining to offer diners a quality experience.
Their incredibly skilled staff craft beautiful plates of sashimi, nigiri and maki rolls, as well as making delicious meat, seafood and vegetable dishes from the robata grill.
If you are after exceptional service, wonderful décor and the most delectable Japanese food in the region, head on in to RAKU.
Raku was recently awarded two chef hats by the Good Food Guide for 2023.
Julie Nguyen wrote this five star review on Google; “Best Japanese in Canberra. Must book first as they book out very quickly. Great for a special occasion. Everything was really delicious and service was amazing. Wonderful and really tasty drinks menu. Great recommendation from staff too.”
Shin Sen Teppanyaki
Located in the heart of Dickson, Shin Sen Teppanyaki delivers Canberrans an exciting and entertaining Teppanyaki show!
The restaurant combines the authentic and elegant Japanese culinary with the fun and excitement from Western cultures, their Teppanyaki chefs skillfully give a memorable Teppanyaki show with quality dishes.
Evan Smith wrote this review on Google; “At the end of the meal, when both your kids say, “this is our new favourite restaurant”, you know you’re onto a winner. Fun, entertaining, and above all else, great food! We will absolutely be back.”
Iori
Iori provides an delightful and relaxing dining atmosphere to help you enjoy your authentic Japanese experience.
Their food and service is what you would find from a restaurant in Japan and they offer a range of menu options, from traditional Japanese dishes, hot pot courses, sushi and sashimi.
Tuyết Phạm left this review on Google; “One of the best Japanese experiences I’ve had. The food was simple and incredibly delicate with huge flavour. Great sake selection as well!”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Teppanyaki?
Teppanyaki is a type of Japanese cuisine that features food cooked on a steel griddle. The word “teppanyaki” is derived from the Japanese word for “griddle,” which is “teppan.” Teppanyaki restaurants typically feature an open kitchen, where diners can watch as their food is prepared. The chef will often put on a small show, flipping and juggling ingredients before cooking them to perfection. Common teppanyaki dishes include chicken, shrimp, steak, and vegetables. While teppanyaki is often associated with sushi, the two are actually quite different. Sushi is a Japanese dish made with vinegar-flavored rice and raw fish, while teppanyaki is a Japanese dish made with food cooked on a griddle.
What are the most popular Japanese dishes?
Sushi is the most famous Japanese dish and is enjoyed right around the world. Some other popular dishes include sashimi, ramen, tempura and unagi.
Is Japanese food good for you?
Japanese food is typically considered to be healthy, although as always, it can depend on exactly what you eat and how much. However, Japanese cuisine tends to consist of fresh, quality ingredients that are good for you.
