7 best Japanese restaurants in Kuala Lumpur you must visit
Japanese cuisine is more than just a meal — it’s a tapestry of art, history, and culture all rolled into one. From sizzling yakiniku and beautifully plated sushi to full-on omakase and cosy shabu-shabu experiences, it’s a playground for foodies to explore.
The best part? You don’t need to fly to Japan to get a taste of the real deal. Right here in Kuala Lumpur, there are tons of spots that serve up authentic Japanese flavours, bringing the experience straight to you.
To help you get started, I’ve put together a list of the 7 best Japanese restaurants in KL. Whether you’re a sushi fan, a wagyu lover, or just curious to try something new, this list has you covered. So grab your chopsticks and let’s dig in — itadakimasu!
1. Sushi Yoshi
There’s no better way to dive into the heart of Japanese cuisine than with omakase — an experience where you let the chef take the reins. The word itself means “I leave it up to you,” and at Sushi Yoshi, that means leaving your taste buds in the hands of a true master.
At Sushi Yoshi, that true master is none other than Otsuka Kenji, an Omakase Head Chef straight from Ginza, Japan. With years of experience at a Michelin 1-star restaurant, Chef Kenji brings his expertise and creativity to every dish, promising an unforgettable omakase journey right here in KL.
Sushi Yoshi offers 5 carefully crafted menus to suit every craving. For RM298 per person, the Omakase Yoshi features a delightful lineup of an Appetiser, 3 kinds Sashimi, Mushimono, Seasonal Hot Dish, 7 kinds Chef’s Selection Nigiri Sushi, Seasonal Soup, and Seasonal Dessert.
If you’re feeling a little more indulgent, the second-tier menu at RM498 per person offers an even richer spread. Think Seasonal Sashimi, a Mini Don, and more of Chef Kenji’s exquisite sushi creations.
For those ready to go all out, the Omakase Takumi is a showstopper. At RM1,298 per person, this exclusive menu is full of surprises crafted specially by Chef Kenji. It’s the kind of meal that deserves a bit of planning — you’ll need to book at least 5 – 6 days in advance to secure your spot.
Sushi Yoshi combines premium, pork-free ingredients with the essence of Japanese culinary artistry. Whether you’re new to omakase or a seasoned enthusiast, it’s the perfect spot for an unforgettable dining experience in Kuala Lumpur.
G01&G02 Lalaport Bukit Bintang City Center, No.2 Jalan Hang Tuah, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
+6011-3318 6881
Daily: 11am – 3pm & 6pm – 10pm
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2. Wagyu and Rice
Few dishes embody comfort and flavour like the Japanese classic hamburg steak and rice. Imagine a juicy, perfectly-grilled beef patty resting on a bed of fluffy rice, its savoury juices seeping into every grain as you cut into it. This timeless favourite reaches new heights at Wagyu and Rice.
Here, the star of the show is the hamburg steak crafted from 100% Shimomuragyu A5 Wagyu Beef. This exceptional Wagyu variety comes from pure Japanese black cattle and is renowned for its rich flavour and melt-in-your-mouth marbled texture, often claimed to be surpassing even Matsusaka and Kobe Beef. Best of all, it’s halal-certified, making it accessible to everyone!
Starting at just RM38.80, you can savour the A5 Shimomuragyu Wagyu Set, complete with rice and miso soup — both of which you can refill once, for free, if you’re extra hungry. If you’re craving something different, try the Shimomuragyu Wagyu Burger for a handheld delight.
Feeling indulgent? The Hamburg Cheese takes decadence to the next level. For those who prefer a simple, no-frills option, the Cuts of Wagyu served on a hot plate — cooked exactly how you like it — are a must-try.
Wagyu and Rice is completely alcohol- and pork-free, making it an excellent choice for Muslim diners seeking a premium yet accessible culinary experience. Keep in mind, though, that they don’t take reservations, so plan your visit wisely to snag a table.
Good news for Penangites — you don’t have to travel all the way to KL just for a taste, as they also have an outlet at City Junction!
Lalaport Branch
G93 Lalaport Bukit Bintang City Center, No.2 Jalan Hang Tuah, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
+6011 3606 6881
Mon to Thu: 11am – 3pm & 6pm – 10pm
Fri to Sun: 11am – 10pm
Avenue K Branch
L2-4 & L2-5, Level 2 Avenue K, 156 Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur
Daily: 11am – 10pm
3. Hut Sake Bar
Japan’s nightlife is as vibrant as its days, with hungry pub-crawlers pairing delicious bites with their favourite drinks. Now, you can enjoy this lively tradition right here in Kuala Lumpur at Hut Sake Bar, where the izakaya experience gets a luxurious twist.
This cosy spot offers an authentic Japanese drinking experience with a unique spin — a premium buffet that pairs perfectly with their selection of Sake and other beverages. Indulge in fine drinks while savouring an impressive spread of sushi, sashimi, Japanese hot dishes, and more. It’s the perfect combination for a night of feasting and unwinding.
Choose from 3 enticing buffet packages to suit your mood. The Premium Buffet (RM268++) keeps it simple yet indulgent, with fresh uni and caviar gracing your plate. For a more elevated experience, the Supreme Buffet (RM468++) introduces specialties like Uni Rolls, Uni Cones, Uni Oyster Sashimi, and a cold platter of abalone, hotate, scampi, and caviar.
For those who want to go all out, the Luxurious Buffet (RM868++) is the ultimate indulgence. Enjoy unlimited separate orders of Uni, Caviar, Botan Ebi, Scampi, and Ama Ebi. Yes, that includes unlimited servings of Lobster and King Crab! And let’s not forget the cherry on top: free-flow Haagen-Dazs ice cream and drinks are included with all packages.
Make it a night to remember by bringing your loved ones to this 2-hour unlimited buffet at Hut Sake Bar. With its simple yet elegant atmosphere inspired by the Japanese “less is more” philosophy, it’s the perfect place to chill, feast, and drink the night away.
They also have another outlet at City Junction, Penang — so Penangites can simply visit without having to go to KL.
G97, Lalaport, 2, Jalan Hang Tuah, Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur
+6011-3686 6881
Daily: 11am – 3pm & 6pm – 10pm
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4. Yakiniku Tenshin
Step into the world of yakiniku, the Japanese art of grilling meat, redefined to perfection at Yakiniku Tenshin. This spot takes indulgence to the next level with an all-you-can-eat wagyu buffet, featuring the renowned Shimomuragyu Wagyu from Aichi — a cut of beef so exceptional it has been ranked first in the National Wagyu Competition for 10 consecutive years. Best of all, this premium wagyu is halal-certified, and the establishment is entirely alcohol- and pork-free, making it a perfect choice for Muslim diners.
Yakiniku Tenshin offers 2 buffet packages to satisfy every craving: the Ten Buffet (RM298++) and the Shin Buffet (RM478++).
Prepare your taste buds for a lineup of luxurious A5 Wagyu creations, including Tenshin Wagyu Platter, Wagyu Croissant, Wagyu Sando, Wagyu Cone, Hamburg Steak, Wagyu Inaniwa Udon, Wagyu Namaharu-ki, and more.
Seafood lovers are in for a treat, too. The buffet boasts a variety of fresh and flavourful dishes, from Hotate Teppanyaki and King Prawn Cheese Yaki to Oyster Sashimi, Uni Tartare, Snow Crab Nabe, and more.
Whether you’re a beef connoisseur or simply looking to indulge in a memorable yakiniku experience, Yakiniku Tenshin promises a feast like no other.
L3-14A & L3-14C, Level 3 Avenue K, 156 Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur
+6011-3331 9089
Daily: 11am – 3pm & 6pm – 10pm
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5. Tsukiji Sushi
Looking for a top-tier sushi experience that won’t empty your wallet? Then Tsukiji Sushi is the place to be. With an open kitchen concept and prices starting as low as RM2, this charming spot combines high-quality sushi with affordability. Watch the chefs work their magic as your meal is prepared fresh before your eyes, all while enjoying a relaxed, down-to-earth atmosphere.
The menu at Tsukiji Sushi is a celebration of Japanese classics, from sushi and sashimi platters to indulgent Wagyu dishes featuring the renowned Shimomuragyu. Sushi enthusiasts will adore the Chutoro Sushi Platter (RM59.90), showcasing melt-in-your-mouth fatty tuna slices, served fresh to your plate.
Not into rice? Go all-in on pure freshness with the Tsukiji Sashimi Moriawase (RM188.80). This luxurious dish brims with premium Uni, Chutoro, salmon, and more — each bite bursting with the taste of the ocean.
For those who love a little bit of everything, the Tsukiji Signature Platter (RM168) is the perfect choice — a hassle-free way to sample the best of both sushi and sashimi.
If you’re a temaki fan, the Cone Series is a must-try. Delight in small yet decadent bites like the Ikura and Caviar Cone (RM12.80) or go bold with the rich Uni Cone (RM25.80), all nestled in a crunchy wafer cone for the perfect texture contrast.
Don’t leave without indulging in their Wagyu creations, either. Highlights include the A5 Shimomuragyu Wagyu Maki (RM36.80), the hearty A5 Shimomuragyu Wagyu Hamburg Don (RM39.80), and the luxurious A5 Shimomuragyu Wagyu Foie Gras Sushi (RM16.80).
Whether you’re a sushi purist or a sashimi adventurer, Tsukiji Sushi promises an unforgettable culinary journey that balances premium quality with approachable prices.
For a list of locations, opening hours, and contact numbers, click here.
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6. Tengyu Omakase
For yakiniku enthusiasts seeking a one-of-a-kind experience, Tengyu Omakase is the ultimate destination. Helmed by Chef Takeda, a seasoned expert with over 8 years of experience in local yakiniku eateries and a former head chef at a renowned Tokyo yakiniku restaurant, his artistry will blow you away.
At Tengyu Omakase, the spotlight is on Shimomuragyu Wagyu, a premium selection served in a variety of exquisite dishes through carefully curated omakase courses. Choose from 5 enticing packages: Ume (RM268), Take (RM388), Matsu (RM688), Tengyu Special (RM888), and the ultimate Sushi Yoshi x Tengyu Kiwami (RM1,000).
Start with the Ume Omakase, a well-rounded introduction featuring 3 kinds of Appetiser, Chawanmushi, 3 kinds of Wagyu slices, Beef Bone Soup, Grilled Sirloin Roll, Hand-Rolled Wagyu Sushi, seasonal salad, and dessert.
For those feeling peckish, the Matsu Omakase delivers a more luxurious spread, including Special 4 Kinds Appetiser, Wagyu Yukke with Uni, Valuable Part of Wagyu Tongue, 3 Kinds Premium Wagyu, Seafood Teppanyaki, Chef’s Special Salad, Tenderloin Special Cook, Wagyu Soup Stock Chazuke, and Dessert.
To experience the pinnacle of Tengyu Omakase, the Sushi Yoshi x Tengyu Kiwami package is a must. This collaboration between 2 renowned Japanese chefs features delicacies like 3 kinds Appetiser, Soup, Wagyu Beef, Seafood Sashimi, Chateaubriand Special Cook Teppan Grilled Sirloin, Seafood Wagyu Beef Sushi Comparison, Special Wagyu Beef Seafood Bowl and Japanese Fruit.
With its dedication to premium ingredients and exceptional craftsmanship, Tengyu Omakase is the perfect place to savour the art of yakiniku in its most luxurious form.
L3-14A & L3-14C, Level 3 Avenue K, 156 Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur
+6010-280 7008
Daily: 11am – 3pm & 6pm – 10pm
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7. Shabu Fuku
True to its name, Shabu Fuku specialises in shabu-shabu, offering an unlimited spread of premium ingredients for an indulgent hotpot buffet experience. The star of the menu? None other than the exquisite A5 Shimomuragyu Wagyu beef slices.
Renowned for their buttery texture, rich flavour, and incredible marbling, these slices take luxury to the next level. With an amino acid content 30 times higher than regular A5 Wagyu, Shimomuragyu delivers an unparalleled depth of flavour.
But the indulgence doesn’t stop at Wagyu. At Shabu Fuku, you can dip high-quality seafood into flavourful broths, pair it with rice and eggs, and savour every bite. Choose from 2 buffet packages: the Shabu Fuku Mame and the Shabu Fuku Matsu.
Starting at RM298++, the Shabu Fuku Mame showcases a fantastic selection of premium meats and seafood, including A5 Shimomuragyu Brisket Slices, Abalone, Snow Crab, and Tiger Prawn. Complement these with a variety of fresh vegetables like Yaki Tofu and Lotus. Don’t miss the Chef’s Recommendations, which feature delightful creations like Santen Mori Cone, Wagyu Cone, Uni Tartare, and Sunfish Bowel.
You’ll also find a tempting lineup of sashimi platters — think Salmon Belly, Hotate, and Hamachi — and an assortment of decadent Chawanmushis, including Foie Gras, Wagyu, and Uni options.
For a truly regal feast, opt for the Shabu Fuku Matsu (from RM478++). This package ups the ante with golden selections of A5 Shimomuragyu, including sirloin, ribloin, and shoulder clod, along with everything offered in the Mame package. Additional indulgences include Caviar, Salmon, Chutoro, & Abalone Platter, Ama Ebi No Oyster, and Premium Seafood Platter fit for royalty.
Whether you’re planning a solo indulgence or a gathering with friends, Shabu Fuku is the place to elevate your shabu experience. Be sure to make a reservation in advance for large groups to ensure the freshest ingredients and a seamless dining experience.
L3-15, Level 3 Avenue K, 156 Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur
+6010-258 0663
Daily: 11am – 1pm & 6pm – 10pm
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