Best Creative Japanese Restaurants in Darlinghurst

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Regions

BaysideEastern SuburbsInner SouthInner WestNorth Sydney AreaRandwick and surrounds

Neighborhoods

AnnandaleChippendaleCrows NestDarling QuarterEastgardensGlebe

Top Rated

CharmingDog-friendlyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for live music

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

11 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

1. Busshari

4.7

Exceptional(39)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Creative japanese • Potts Point

Booked 3 times today

Located in the heart of Potts Point, Busshari Restaurant represents the essence of Japanese cuisine: simplicity and freshness. Busshari's decor is soft lit, creating warm and welcoming feel.Busshari opened in 2006, specializing in Japanese authenticity of simple, delicate sashimi and sushi.Along with a selected and refined offer of wine and saké we hope to cater for every of your nights of food and drinks.

2. Ichoume

4.5

Awesome(49)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Creative japanese • Darling Quarter

Booked 11 times today

Ichoume, nestled in Sydney's vibrant Darling Quarter, offers an unparalleled sushi experience that has diners raving. With a menu crafted under the expert supervision of renowned sushi chef Shinsuke Toda, Ichoume promises a delightful journey into authentic Japanese flavors. Guests are consistently enchanted by the "delicious real Japanese food" and the "incredible" culinary creations that make each visit memorable. The omakase sets, featuring a diverse selection of fresh sushi, are a standout, with one diner exclaiming, "Ichoume has always been amazing." Paired with exceptional service and a sophisticated ambiance, Ichoume is an unmissable destination for sushi enthusiasts.

3. Jazushi

4.5

Awesome(63)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Creative japanese • Surry Hills

Booked 11 times today

Jazushi, nestled in the heart of Surry Hills, offers a remarkable blend of exquisite Japanese fusion cuisine accentuated by the allure of live jazz music. While known for its innovative dishes, the Ramen here is nothing short of extraordinary. The chefs at Jazushi are hailed as artisans, crafting each bowl with precise attention to detail and flavor. Diners rave about the “exquisite taste” and “gorgeous flavors” that make their Ramen truly stand out, making it a must-try for any enthusiast. The warm ambiance and attentive service further enhance the dining experience, creating a memorable evening for all who visit.

4. By Sang

4.6

Exceptional(136)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Creative japanese • Rosebery

Booked 9 times today

By Sang, nestled in the vibrant Rosebery neighborhood, offers a Contemporary Asian dining experience that is truly remarkable. Head Chef Sangyong Park combines his deep expertise in authentic Japanese techniques with a modern twist, creating dishes that leave diners "still talking about it today." The freshness and sustainability of locally sourced seafood shine through in every bite, especially in standout dishes like the "uni nigiri" and "dry aged duck," which are full of umami and exquisitely seasoned. With a friendly, attentive service and an extensive wine and sake list, By Sang is an "innovative Japanese gem" that promises a memorable culinary adventure.

A photo of Kaiza Newtown - Japanese Vietnamese Restaurant restaurant

5. Kaiza Newtown - Japanese Vietnamese Restaurant

4.5

Awesome(39)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Creative japanese • Newtown

Booked 7 times today

Welcome to Kaiza, where the vibrant flavors of Japan meet the bold, fresh tastes of Vietnam. Our contemporary fusion concept brings together the best of both worlds, offering a unique dining experience that pushes the boundaries of traditional cuisine.At Kaiza, we take pride in crafting innovative dishes using the finest local and seasonal ingredients, blending Japanese precision with Vietnamese vibrancy. Our menu features signature creations like delicate sashimi paired with fresh herbs, fragrant broths infused with umami, and artful plates that reflect both cultures’ culinary traditions.Kaiza is more than just a restaurant—it’s a place where culture and creativity meet, inviting you to explore bold new tastes in a chic, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're here for a casual meal or a special celebration, we look forward to making every visit an unforgettable culinary journey.

6. Nomu Bar

4.2

Awesome(3)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Creative japanese • Chippendale

NOMU BAR is a cozy bar located at Kensington Street, that specialises in Japanese cocktails, highballs, and more.Transport yourself to the vibrant streets of Tokyo at Nomu Bar in Chippendale. Infused with the spirit of late-night Japanese street bars, Nomu beckons with modern allure. Sip on inventive cocktails, relish street-style izakaya bites, and immerse yourself in the lively, authentic ambiance of our contemporary Japanese hideaway.

7. Kokoroya Pagewood

4.8

Exceptional(19)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Creative japanese • Eastgardens

Booked 14 times today

Kokoroya PagewoodExperience the fresh, authentic flavors of Japan at Kokoroya in Pagewood. Located in the heart of Meriton Pagewood’s vibrant retail precinct, our restaurant offers a unique dining experience perfect for all occasions.Start your day with our weekend breakfast menu, featuring authentic Japanese dishes paired with a Matcha latte or premium coffee from Toby’s Estate. For lunch and dinner, enjoy a wide selection of sushi, sashimi, and traditional Japanese hot dishes, all crafted with the finest ingredients.Our spacious dining area boasts a family-friendly atmosphere, with a playground and park just steps away, making it an ideal spot for families and groups. Bask in the warm morning sunlight or unwind in the inviting ambiance as you savor every bite.Kokoroya is more than just a meal—it’s a taste of Japan brought to Pagewood. Join us for a dining experience that’s as memorable as it is delicious.We look forward to welcoming you soon!

8. Osaka Trading Co.

4.8

Exceptional(345)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Creative japanese • Glebe

Booked 2 times today

Osaka Trading Co., nestled in the bustling Tramsheds precinct in Forest Lodge, is a haven for seafood aficionados seeking authentic Japanese cuisine. Renowned for its "beautiful food and service," this gem offers a delectable selection of seafood dishes that delight the senses. Guests rave about the "always beautiful food," with standout offerings like the exquisite Kingfish being a crowd favorite. The restaurant's commitment to quality and authentic flavors makes it a must-visit for seafood lovers. Whether you're a local or visiting Sydney, Osaka Trading Co. promises a memorable dining experience with its exceptional seafood that keeps customers coming back for more.

A photo of Hachioji Crows Nest restaurant

9. Hachioji Crows Nest

4.5

Awesome(49)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Creative japanese • Crows Nest

Booked 3 times today

Hachioji Crows Nest is a culinary gem in the heart of Crows Nest, offering an exquisite Contemporary Asian dining experience. Known for its outstanding Omakase menu, diners rave about the "exceptional cuisine and warm atmosphere" that the restaurant provides. The sushi is described as "amazing," and the overall dining experience feels like "you’ve been transported somewhere else." With fresh seasonal seafood and a variety of Sakes, Hachioji ensures every visit is a delightful journey. Guests consistently praise the "lovely service" and "delicious food beautifully presented," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic and innovative Asian flavors.

10. Snacky Chans

4.8

Exceptional(181)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Creative japanese • Annandale

Booked 3 times today

Snacky Chans in Annandale is a vibrant gem for Yakitori enthusiasts. Renowned for its "delicious food and fantastic service," this spot offers a unique twist on traditional Japanese cuisine. The Yakitori grill takes center stage, delighting diners with expertly grilled chicken skewers that are simply "yum." The lively ambiance, complete with cool lighting and awesome music, makes it the perfect place to enjoy a fun night out. With welcoming staff and mouthwatering options, Snacky Chans is more than just a meal—it's an experience. Whether you're a local or visiting, the Yakitori here is not to be missed.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

J
Jake
Sydney •1 review
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Had a wonderful experience, the food was superb and a nice calm ambience. Max was super helpful all night and was very knowledgeable regarding the menu and the inspiration behind each dish.
More info
Kaiza Newtown - Japanese Vietnamese RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Creative Japanese• Newtown
•
4.5
J
Jackson
Sydney •1 review
4.0
Dined on May 30, 2025
The food was fantastic, the service was good. However, for what you get, the food is quite pricey. Would recommend for a special occasion or two.
More info
IchoumePrice: Expensive• Japanese• Darling Quarter
•
4.5
B
Beverly
London •4 reviews
4.0
Dined on May 30, 2025
Went there for lunch and was warmly greeted. The food was good, however the gyoza wasn't up to standard compared to the quality of all the other dishes we have ordered. Also, I was quite disappointed as I had wanted to do the tasting menu but it wasn't available during lunch. It wasn't stated anywhere in the website that the tasting menu was only available for dinner. Otherwise, it was a nice lunch.
More info
By SangPrice: Expensive• Creative Japanese• Rosebery
•
4.6
A
Aundray
Sydney •1 review
5.0
Dined on May 21, 2025
The lunch set menu is extraordinary value. I have brought several sets of work colleagues here and all have completed the quality of the meal and the quantity of the food provided.
More info
JazushiPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Surry Hills
•
4.5
K
Keven
Sydney •1 review
5.0
Dined on Mar 29, 2025
I have been to this place multiplies time and its always a great to be with friends, colleagues, or just a place to grab mad food and drinks. Shout out to Kev and his team for the energetic service.
More info
Nomu BarPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Chippendale
•
4.2

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