Philadelphia is known for its sports teams and rich historical landmarks—and its top-notch dining scene. You can find everything from fresh sushi to innovative omakase experiences when you book at a best Japanese restaurant in Philadelphia.
Enjoy a luxurious meal at an “Iron Chef”’s flagship restaurant in Center City. Chow down on expertly grilled vegetable and meat skewers in Chinatown. Be one of the lucky few to score a seat at a super exclusive sushi club in Northern Liberties.
Reserve a table at one of the best Japanese restaurants in Philadelphia on OpenTable today.
Read on to discover the 10 best Japanese restaurants in Philadelphia right now.
For iconic dishes from Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto — check out Morimoto (Center City)
Located in Old City, “Iron Chef” alum Masaharu Morimoto’s flagship restaurant continues to be a must-book reservation. With its color-changing booths and sculptural walls, the dramatic dining room sets the stage for masterfully executed dishes that blend Japanese tradition with modern flair. From the signature toro tartare to the innovative sushi rolls, each plate showcases why this Philadelphia institution remains the gold standard for contemporary Japanese cuisine.
For oysters, sushi, and sake at a best Japanese restaurant in Philadelphia — head to Tuna Bar (Old City)
A sleek, modern spot in Old City, Tuna Bar is a go-to for the raw bar, sushi, and creative Japanese small plates. Chef-owner Kenneth Sze delivers high-quality seafood with standout dishes like the tuna crudo and the specialty Broad Street roll. The bright, airy space features natural light, mid-century-inspired leather booths and a gleaming marble bar. With expertly crafted cocktails and an impressive sake selection, it’s easily one of the best Japanese restaurants in Philadelphia.
For lively communal table grilling and one of the best happy hours in Philly — head over to Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ (Art Museum)
Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ is where you head with a group of friends to sling back some ice-cold Asian beers while cooking your own premium meats and vegetables on the built-in table grills. From Japanese sausages to tender kalbi, order as much (or little) meat as you want. Don’t sleep on the garlic noodles, either. Happy hour is particularly busy thanks to heavily discounted food and drinks to help the after-work crowd unwind after a busy day.
For a comforting bowl of ramen with a side of sashimi at one of the best Japanese restaurants in Philadelphia — try Tomo Sushi & Ramen (Old City)
Tomo Sushi and Ramen nails the balance between traditional Japanese dishes and bold, modern flavors. Expect a wide range of specialty sushi rolls, buttery sashimi, and steaming bowls of rich, umami-packed ramen (including vegetarian and vegan options) that keep locals coming back. The cozy, minimalist space sets the stage for everything from casual weeknight dinners to intimate date nights. Pro tip: Don’t skip the miso ramen.
For a night out with grilled skewers, sushi, and karaoke— book a table at Yakitori Boy Japas (Chinatown)
Tucked into the heart of Chinatown, Yakitori Boy Japas is one of Philadelphia’s premier Japanese izakayas. The modern two-story space transitions from intimate dining to lively karaoke bar, showcasing meticulously grilled skewers and other Japanese comfort food like katsu curry, udon, and tempura. Pair it all with a signature cocktail or glass from the deep sake selection before you head upstairs to sing the night away in a private karaoke room.
For bowls of ramen in a Blade Runner-inspired below-ground space — make the trek to Chika Ramen Bar (Center City)
As soon as you step into Chika Ramen Bar, you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled into some futuristic hidden ramen bar. The glow of neon lights everywhere and the long bar in the center of this below-ground establishment give it an unmistakable Blade Runner vibe. Slurp up bowls of rich tonkotsu ramen, and add gyozas and edamame to share. Wash it all down with one of the specialty cocktails, Japanese beers, or sakes for a unique experience you won’t soon forget.
For buttery Japanese steaks and some of the freshest sushi in Philadelphia — reserve a spot at Umami Steak & Sushi Bar (Old City)
Head over to Umami Steak & Sushi Bar with friends and family for elegant Japanese steaks and seafood—think melt-in-your-mouth A5 wagyu, nigiri, incredibly fresh sushi, and expertly seared steaks with umami-packed sauces. The sleek, dimly lit space accented with blonde wood tones and a buzzing open kitchen sets the stage for lively nights and intimate dinners. Don’t skip the chef’s omakase or the popular lunch specials.
For inventive specialty rolls and Hokkaido ice cream at a best Japanese restaurant in Philadelphia — check out Bleu Sushi (Center City)
Tucked into a cozy Philly nook, Bleu Sushi delivers expertly crafted sushi rolls, exquisitely light sashimi, and standout specialties like oyster tempura and the shibuya crossing roll drizzled in spicy mayo. The cozy dining room also boasts a small outdoor patio for warmer days. Be sure to try one of the fun Japanese beverages on the menu, and always leave room for the dreamy Hokkaido ice cream for dessert.
For an exclusive omakase with a hidden entrance — try 637 Philly Sushi Club (Northern Liberties)
Finding 637 Sushi Club is no easy feat. Hidden inside Yanaga Kappo Izakaya, a secret entrance behind a bookcase leads a lucky few into what appears to be a speakeasy. That’s just part of the intrigue at chef Kevin Yanaga’s exclusive omakase experience. With just eight seats available per seating, this intimate dinner means course after course of luscious sashimi, sushi, and whatever else the “Philly Sushi Whisperer” curates for the evening. Trust us, this is one club you want to be a part of.
For a Japanese spot locals love — check out Fuji Mountain Japanese Restaurant (Rittenhouse Square)
Fuji Mountain Japanese Restaurant is a Philly staple for top-tier sushi and Japanese dishes. Signature rolls, fresh sashimi, and standout hot dishes like miso-glazed black cod keep locals returning for more. The multi-level space oozes old-school charm with a sleek sushi bar, cozy tatami rooms, and a late-night karaoke lounge for post-dinner fun.
From classic izakayas to celebrity-chef-driven establishments to an uber-cool ramen bar and more, the Japanese restaurant scene in Philadelphia is as diverse as the city itself.
Don’t forget the best seats fill up fast, so make sure to secure your spot ahead of time.
Book a table at one of the best Japanese restaurants in Philadelphia by reserving ahead on OpenTable today.
To learn about more hot dining options in Philadelphia, check out these guides:
- 9 quintessential date-night restaurants in Philadelphia
- 6 can’t-miss vegan-friendly restaurants in Philadelphia
- 12 Philadelphia restaurants that our local editor loves
- Philadelphia’s 12 most drop-dead gorgeous restaurants
Esther Carlstone is a travel and food writer based in Los Angeles. Her work has appeared in publications such as Travel + Leisure, Lonely Planet, Forbes, Tripadvisor, Insider, and more. Follow her on Instagram @familyfieldtrip.
