In Kuala Lumpur, Japanese cuisine has gained widespread popularity, offering a perfect blend of authenticity and innovation across dishes and dining experiences.
Japanese restaurants have redefined dining by combining traditional and modern elements, making every meal not just food but a complete experience.
Explore the best Japanese restaurants in KL for fresh ingredients, time-honored cooking methods, and warm izakaya hospitality that will transport you straight to Japan.
Top Japanese Restaurants in KL
1. Teppan Sakaba
Located in Taman Desa, Teppan Sakaba specializes in teppan (iron griddle-cooked) dishes, showcasing a fusion of traditional artistry and modern culinary techniques.
The restaurant offers an inviting atmosphere, reminiscent of a traditional Japanese izakaya, with vibrant decor and authentic motifs.
Savour the sizzling sounds and enticing aromas as your meal is served on cast iron dishes, providing a delicious dining experience perfect for group gatherings.
Signature Dishes: Teppan Gyoza, Teppan Steak, Hamburg, and Okonomiyaki
Address: Faber Towers, Lot G13, Jalan Desa Bahagia, Taman Desa, 58100 Kuala Lumpur
Phone Number: +6011-3993 7622
Opening Hours: 12:30PM – 3PM ; 5 PM – 10:30 PM
2. Tansen Izakaya
Tansen Izakaya, located in Damansara Jaya, is celebrated for its fresh seafood offerings, including Tansen tiger prawns, delicate clams, sashimi, and expertly grilled fish. The restaurant also serves yakitori, grilled to perfection.
Savor the natural flavors of top-quality seafood and explore an extensive drink menu, including Sapporo beer and sake, all while relaxing in a cozy, traditional interior with ambient music.
Signature Dishes: Sashimi, Grilled Seafood (prawn, clam, scallop, airflown fish), and Tuna Cheek Dishes
Address: No. 36, Jalan SS 22/25, Damansara Jaya, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Phone Number: +6011-3993 7622
Opening Hours: 1 PM – 3 PM; 5 PM – 11 PM
3. Butaya Izakaya
Located in Sri Hartamas, Butaya Izakaya specializes in pork dishes, offering the freshest ingredients and highlighting the natural flavors and textures of the meat.
Enjoy a true Japanese gastropub experience with a wide selection of drinks, including Sapporo beer, sake, shochu, and whiskey.
The restaurant’s interior, decorated with Japanese posters and wooden planks listing the menu, adds to the authentic atmosphere.
Signature Dishes: Motsunabe, Nitsuke Pork Feet, Oden, Grilled Sakura Ribs, Kushiyaki, and Pork Knuckle Ponzu
Address: 14, Jalan Sri Hartamas 8, Taman Sri Hartamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Phone Number: +6011-3993 7622
Opening Hours: 4:30 PM – 11:30 PM
4. Yakitori Kakusu
Hidden behind the facade of a convenience store in Bukit Bintang, Yakitori Kakusu is a unique izakaya-style restaurant specializing in tender, succulent chicken dishes.
With its speakeasy concept, the restaurant offers a cozy ambiance with warm lighting and wooden furnishings.
The menu is carefully crafted to ensure high standards of taste and presentation.
Kick back in cosy tatami seatings for a traditional Japanese style or enjoy flexible private rooms that are perfect for relaxed hangouts, private gatherings and special celebrations.
Signature Dishes: Mizutaki Nabe, Wagyu Hobayaki, Yakitori and Donabe
Address: 20, Changkat, Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur
Phone Number: +6011-3993 7622
Opening Hours: 4:30 PM – 12 AM
5. Kitsuzo Izakaya
Kitsuzo Izakaya, located in Desa Sri Hartamas, offers over 15 types of kushiyaki (grilled skewers), featuring meats, vegetables, and fish, all grilled to perfection.
The extensive sake menu allows guests to explore various Japanese rice wines to complement the dishes.
Signature Dish: Kushiyaki, Tori Karaage Spicy Don, Sashimi Platter, Japanese Hot Pot, and Karaage
Address: Lot Wisma Rapid, 30, Jalan 30/70a, Desa Sri Hartamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur
Phone Number: +6017-391 2318
Opening Hours: Daily from 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM; closed on Thursdays
6. Toritama Yakitori
Toritama Yakitori is a renowned Japanese yakitori specialty restaurant, offering skewered chicken grilled with authentic techniques.
Its dedication to traditional grilling methods makes it a must-visit for those who appreciate quality yakitori.
Signature Dish: Chicken Omakase Skewers, Tsukune (Meatballs), Kawa (Skin), Hatsu (Heart), Tebasaki (Wings), and Sake Pairing
Address: Publika Dutamas, D3-G3-1,1, Jln Dutamas 1, Solaris Dutamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur
Phone Number: +603-6211 0306
Opening Hours: 12 PM – 3 PM; 5.30 PM – 10 PM
7. Nomi Tomo Sake Bar
Nomi Tomo, located in Bukit Damansara, is KL’s first sake specialty bar, offering a relaxed environment perfect for after-work drinks, casual gatherings, or simply trying something new.
The menu features a wide range of yakitori skewers and wholesome donburi dishes.
Signature Dish: Yakitori (chicken, beef, pork and seasonal vegetables), Gyudon, and Ox Tongue Donburi
Address: 100-2.035, 129 Offices, Taipan 2 Damansara Block J, Taipan 2 Damansara, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Phone Number: +6016-615 1778
Opening Hours: 10.30 AM – 8.30 PM; Closed on Sundays
8. Yaki Soul Izakaya
Yaki Soul Izakaya is the only Japanese sand-grilled (sunamushi) izakaya restaurant in Malaysia. It uses the freshest ingredients grilled through heated sand, creating a unique smoky and succulent flavor.
Pair your meal with a selection of sake, Japanese whiskey, or crafted cocktails while discovering the art of grilling
Signature Dish: Sand-grilled Sashimi and Seafood, Yakitori, and Ikan Bakar
Address: 1, Jln Mesui, Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Phone Number: +6012-458 1683
Opening Hours: 4 PM – 3 AM
Conclusion
Whether you’re in the mood for authentic dishes or modern takes, each of these restaurants offers a unique culinary journey. With flavorful food, inviting atmospheres, and a taste of Japan’s rich culinary heritage, these venues make it easy to enjoy a memorable Japanese dining experience in Kuala Lumpur.
Dine at our restaurants offering authentic Japanese dining experience:
- Tansen Izakaya – Specializing in seafood with perfect drink pairings
- Butaya Izakaya – Pork-focused dishes paired with drinks
- Teppan Sakaba – Iron griddle cooking with theatrical presentations
- Yakitori Kakusu – Authentic yakitori with new cooking methods from Japan
Explore the best Japanese dining that Kuala Lumpur has to offer and indulge in an unforgettable culinary adventure!
