Konnichiwa!
We Malaysians enjoy Japanese Cuisine, but we only know Japanese words like sashimi, sushi or matcha. It’s time to expand our Japanese vocabulary and there’s no better way to do so while putting delicious things your mouth.
Here’s our guide to virtually all of Kuala Lumpur’s top Japanese restaurants!
Having produce flown in from Tsukiji Fish Market and Fukuoka Market, you can expect dishes here to be extremely fresh. At Sushi Hinata, it’s limited menu is a testament to the ultimate roll of sushi or cut of sashimi skilfully sliced by Chef Hideaki Oritsuki; A renowned sushi master with fine dining experience in Nagoya.
Address : A-0-1 Ground floor, St Mary Residences, 1 Jalan Tengah, Kuala Lumpur
More info here.
In Kampachi, the main highlight would have to be the soba and udon noodles. They are handmade by dough-artists here in the window of the restaurant, leaving diners and passers-by in awe of their handiwork. Kampachi is praised for excellent service and great food recommendations from the staff.
Address : Lot 6.09.00, Level 6, Pavilion KL, Jalan Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur
More info here.
Being an upscale Japanese eatery, Enju has tatami (a traditional Japanese flooring) rooms for patrons who wish for a little more privacy. But the real deal here is the chef’s makimono (rolled sushi). Thus, be sure to order the Dynamite Roll – a mosaic of orange-marbled salmon, tempura prawn and avocado curled into a luscious roll – and the Gindara Fukiyose Yaki (grilled black cod fish) when in season.
Address : Level 2 Prince Hotel KL, 4 Jalan Conlay, Kuala Lumpur.
More info here.
When literally translated, Fukuya bears the meaning ‘House of Happiness’. Having semi-private rooms that look out onto the gardens, this fine dining restaurant has an old Japanese home setting. The chef’s immaculate knife work which produces fresh sashimi cuts, sushi and grilled seafood composes the well-constructed kaiseki menu.
For a brief overview of what Fukuya has to offer, give the lunchtime Seiro set a go.
Address : 9 Jalan Delima, 55100 Kuala Lumpur
More info here.
Hanare’s Sunday afternoon buffet is the best way to get your fill of freshly shucked oysters, tempura, wagyu teppanyaki, grilled seafood and sushi with free flow of saké. Hanare’s elegant decor – wooden floors, granite tables and open kitchen – provides an opulent lavishness that lives up to their food.
Just be sure to make reservations for their Sunday afternoon buffet as they are almost always fully booked.
Address : Ground Floor, The Intermark, 182 Jalan Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur
More info here.
Decorated with bamboo that gives it a relaxing and tranquil ambience, Rakuzen is one of the best places in Kuala Lumpur to experience Japanese fine dining. Rakuzen’s extensive menu offers a wide variety of specialty dishes such as the dragon rolls. Although you can find this dish in any other Japanese restaurant, the ones here are unmatched for taste and freshness.
Address : Lot P17 Plaza Ground Floor, Hartamas Shopping Centre, 60 Jalan Sri Hartamas 1, Sri Hartamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur.
More info here.
Zipangu extends beyond your everyday Japanese restaurant offering an avant-garde setting with authentic cuisines. Despite having the usual Japanese dishes, foie gras maki leaves an unforgettable creamy aftertaste, the salmon sashimi perfectly cut, and the steamed chawanmushi silky smooth.
What better way to enjoy your usual and delicious japanese dishes at a restaurant with such contemporary design?
Address : Level 1 Shangri-La Hotel KL, 11 Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur
More info here.
This joint is definitely for the adventurous who enjoy trying out new experimental Japanese cuisine and drinks at it’s best. Having been around for 3 years, Daikanyama stands out from the rest of Changkat Bukit Bintang.
For more variety and challenge, ask for their special fusion menus and sample their unique cocktails and extensive liquor selection.
Address :
More info here.
Being one of the very few Izakayas around Kuala Lumpur, Shuraku is a favourite among the Japanese community and locals alike. Izakayas; Japanese pubs that serve food as sharing plates to accompany the drinks, are popular for after-work drinking. Brilliantly decorated with ample of space accompanied by a yakibar and an outdoor balcony, there’s definitely a nook to suit your liking, mood and style.
Address : 13-2, Jalan Solaris 1, Solaris Mont Kiara, Off Jalan Duta Kiara, 50480 Kuala Lumpur
More info here.
Being a luxury Japanese restaurant is second only to their excellent customer service. Serving only THE finest seasonal ingredients, Ten Japanese fine dining provides the ultimate Japanese gastronomic experience. Although needing a minimum of RM 100 per person, you are sure to be treated like royalty at Ten’s.
Address : A-G-1, Marc Residence, Ground Floor, No.3 Jalan Pinang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
More info here.
Claimed as sashimi haven by some, this hidden gem in Bangsar which serves only premium ingredients is attracting everyone to take their visit to this restaurant. Matsuya, however, doesn’t attempt to be conspicuous and instead chooses a dim, moody interior adorned with textural art pieces.
As for recommendations, order the grilled gindara (cod) in ohba leaf (Japanese basil) and salmon ikura cheese maki for a sweet and creamy experience.
Address : 19 Jalan Telawi 2, Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur
More info here.
At Ishin, you can expect nothing less than extraordinary and genuine Japanese and Kaiseki Style cuisines as they only serve fresh ingredients which are flown in from Japan’s famous Tsujiki Market. Private rooms are also available if you ever want to throw a birthday party or arrange a business meeting.
Just bear in mind to make reservations as there are limited private rooms and the dining area is often crowded with patrons.
Address : No. 202, Persiaran Klang, Batu 3 3/4, Off Jalan Kelang Lama, 58000 Kuala Lumpur
More info here.
I hope this guide gives you some great ideas on where to enjoy your next Japanese meal at. Know of any great Japanese eateries around Kuala Lumpur? Do share them at the comments below!
Now, if you’ll excuse me… *grabs car keys*
I’m going to head to Ishin before closing time.
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