Best Japanese Restaurants in Brookland / Brentwood

Price

$$
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Regions

District of ColumbiaMaryland - DC SuburbsVirginia - DC Suburbs

Neighborhoods

ArlingtonBethesdaCapitol HillChevy ChaseDowntownDupont Circle

Top Rated

CharmingDog-friendlyFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasions

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

35 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

1. China Chilcano

4.7

Exceptional(3818)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Japanese • Penn Quarter

Booked 58 times today

China Chilcano in Penn Quarter, Washington, is a culinary gem that offers an extraordinary journey into Japanese Nikkei cuisine. Led by the renowned chef José Andrés, the restaurant artfully blends Japanese flavors with Peruvian influences, creating dishes that are both innovative and authentic. Diners rave about the "super good food," highlighting the "nikkei seviche" as a standout dish. The "creative and delicious" menu consistently impresses, offering a unique fusion that delights the palate. With impeccable service and a vibrant atmosphere, China Chilcano is a must-visit for anyone seeking an exceptional Japanese dining experience in the heart of the capital.

2. Chaplin

4.7

Exceptional(1620)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Japanese • Shaw

Booked 21 times today

Chaplin's Restaurant & Bar in the heart of the Historic Shaw neighborhood offers a truly authentic Japanese dining experience with its 1930s-style ramen house ambiance. Executive Chef Myo Htun, with nearly 30 years of culinary expertise in Japan, brings the essence of traditional ramen to Washington, D.C. Diners rave about Chaplin's as offering "the best ramen in DC," with reviews highlighting the "delicious ramen and creative cocktails." The restaurant's atmosphere is both lively and welcoming, making it perfect for any occasion, whether a fun girls' night out or a cozy date night. Chaplin's dedication to quality and authenticity earned it a Michelin Plate certification in 2020, a testament to its standout Asian cuisine.

3. O-Ku - DC

4.7

Exceptional(1783)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Japanese • Washington

Booked 59 times today

O-Ku DC stands out in the Cocktail Bar scene with its exquisite and inventive drinks that perfectly complement its renowned Japanese cuisine. Located in the heart of Washington, diners rave about the "delicious and well-crafted cocktails" that elevate their dining experience. The bar is known for its creative mixology, using high-quality ingredients that reflect the same commitment to excellence found in their sushi and sashimi. Happy hour is particularly popular, with patrons frequently mentioning the "great vibes" and "wonderful service." Whether you're a cocktail aficionado or just seeking a delightful evening out, O-Ku DC promises a memorable experience that leaves guests eager to return.

4. Umaya

3.9

Excellent(797)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Japanese • Penn Quarter

Booked 19 times today

Umaya is a hidden gem in Penn Quarter, Washington, renowned for its exceptional Ramen cuisine. Diners rave about the "Tonkatsu broth," which ranks among the top three broths globally, delivering an authentic and hard-to-come-by richness that true Ramen aficionados will appreciate. The restaurant beautifully combines Japanese tradition with a Western twist, resulting in a menu that is both extensive and delightful, catering to every palate. Visitors have praised the “amazing miso, ramen, and great Sushi Rolls,” making it a must-visit spot for those who crave genuine Japanese flavors. With its friendly ambiance and attentive service, Umaya promises an unforgettable dining experience.

5. Tonari

4.4

Awesome(343)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Penn Quarter

Booked 27 times today

Tonari in Penn Quarter, Washington, offers an extraordinary Pizzeria experience by seamlessly blending Japanese and Italian cuisines. Its innovative approach to pizza has garnered rave reviews, with patrons praising their "Hot Honey Pepperoni pizza" and unique "Japanese Philly pizza." The restaurant is celebrated for its adventurous fusion, providing diners with flavors that are both "unexpected" and "delightful." Customers consistently commend the "super crispy pizza crust" and the perfect balance of flavors. With its inviting ambiance and attentive service, Tonari isn't just a meal; it's an experience that "you won't find anywhere else in the city." Perfect for adventurous foodies!

6. Jônt

4.9

Exceptional(169)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • U Street Corridor

Booked 10 times today

At Jônt, we are a team of young and inspired chefs taking down the walls between kitchen and guests and taking you on a culinary adventure. Immerse yourself in a progressive tasting menu focusing on the simple, yet luxurious, ingredients around the world with deep inspiration from Japanese cuisine.We challenge the seasons, navigate beyond the limits of time and break with tradition— getting playful with process and tricky with techniques at the intersection of place and possibility.Jônt has been recognized with two Michelin stars since 2021.

7. Zeppelin

4.7

Exceptional(764)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Shaw

Booked 23 times today

Zeppelin, located in the vibrant Shaw neighborhood of Washington, offers a truly exceptional Vegetarian/Vegan dining experience. This restaurant stands out for its commitment to quality and authenticity, with guests raving about the "incredible freshness" and "unmatched flavors" of their plant-based dishes. The creative menu, coupled with a lively atmosphere, makes every visit memorable. Diners frequently highlight the "superb service" and "welcoming ambience," ensuring that each guest feels valued and cared for. With innovative vegetarian and vegan options that go beyond traditional offerings, Zeppelin promises a dining experience that is both delightful and nourishing. Perfect for those seeking an exceptional plant-based meal.

8. Bar Japonais

4.5

Awesome(124)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Logan Circle

Booked 25 times today

Bar Japonais in Logan Circle, Washington, is a vibrant celebration of Japanese Speciality cuisine, artfully blending traditional Japanese flavors with contemporary flair. With glowing reviews describing the food as "absolutely phenomenal" and "carefully thought out and authentic," this restaurant is a must-visit for anyone seeking genuine Japanese fare. Diners rave about the "incredible" Salmon Sashimi and the "phenomenal" Miso Cod, highlighting the fresh, high-quality ingredients used in every dish. The energetic setting combined with impeccable service ensures a memorable dining experience. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Bar Japonais promises an unforgettable taste of Japan in a lively atmosphere.

A photo of DAIKAYA 2F THE IZAKAYA restaurant

9. DAIKAYA 2F THE IZAKAYA

4.4

Awesome(2145)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Penn Quarter

Booked 16 times today

DAIKAYA 2F THE IZAKAYA in Penn Quarter, Washington, offers an exceptional Izakaya experience, blending authentic Japanese comfort food with a modern and creative twist. This vibrant restaurant has been delighting diners with its "outstanding food" and "excellent service," making it a must-visit destination for both locals and visitors. The "cool vibe and ambiance" complement a menu that is both freestyle and adaptive, allowing guests to explore a variety of flavors through small, shareable plates. With attentive staff who are "very knowledgeable about the menu," DAIKAYA ensures every visit is memorable. Come savor the "Japanese tapas" that elevate traditional Izakaya to new heights!

10. Haikan

4.6

Exceptional(665)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Japanese • Shaw

Booked 118 times today

Haikan, nestled in the vibrant Shaw neighborhood of Washington, DC, is a culinary gem that brings the rich flavors of Sapporo-style ramen to life. Revered for capturing the essence of Japan's showa period, this Japanese Specialty restaurant is hailed as the "best Ramen in DC" by enthusiastic patrons. Guests rave about the "delicious and fresh" dishes and the unique small plates that complement the ramen experience. With a bar offering a curated selection of Japanese-inspired cocktails, sake, and more, Haikan promises a "party for your taste buds." Its cozy, inviting atmosphere and attentive service make it a must-visit for ramen aficionados.

‘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

E
Eric
Washington, D.C. Area •1 review
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Great food, great service, GREAT Time! Aaron is the best!
More info
ChaplinPrice: Moderate• Japanese• Shaw
•
4.7
K
KarenVIP
London •20 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Delicious food, different flavours. Lovely service
More info
China ChilcanoPrice: Moderate• Peruvian• Penn Quarter
•
4.7
V
Victoria
Washington, D.C. Area •6 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
We had the omakase and some cocktails. Service was great, and everything was delicious!
More info
O-Ku - DCPrice: Moderate• Japanese• Washington
•
4.7
J
JeffreyVIP
Fort Lauderdale •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
The Detroit style pizza was unbelievably crispy and delicious. We had the Gorgonzola special, which sounded weird but was highly recommend but did not disappoint.
More info
TonariPrice: Expensive• Italian• Penn Quarter
•
4.4
J
Jill
Washington, D.C. Area •33 reviews
4.0
Dined on Apr 16, 2025
My friend and I both enjoyed our meals and the server was efficient and friendly.
More info
UmayaPrice: Moderate• Japanese• Penn Quarter
•
3.9

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