Canberra’s food scene has really come into its own over the past decade, and Japanese cuisine sits right at the heart of this food revolution.

The country’s capital now has some of the most authentic Japanese restaurants that would make any foodie from Sydney or Melbourne take notice.

From traditional sushi bars located in quiet suburbs to modern izakayas serving up fusion Japanese dishes, Canberra offers something for every palate and budget.

Whether you’re after a quick lunch of fresh sashimi or planning a special night out with premium wagyu, Canberra’s Japanese restaurants deliver quality that rivals the best establishments down south.

Here are the eight best Japanese restaurants in Canberra that you must visit if you are craving authentic Japanese food.

Best Japanese Restaurants in Canberra

1. Raku

Google Rating: 4.7

Located at DG36C/148 Bunda St, Raku is one of the best restaurants in Canberra for Japanese food and for obvious reasons. Both the food and ambiance here are so good that you want to come here again and again!

The restaurant offers a stylish, clean setting and an upscale menu full of bold flavors. Every dish is thoughtfully made and beautifully presented.

Some of the food items on the menu that you definitely need to try are sushi, miso soup, grilled Unagi, and yakitori chicken.

Also, try their karaage chicken, it’s crispy and juicy, and the kingfish ceviche is bursting with flavor. You should also order their amazing cocktails that pair well with your meal.

The quality of ingredients is top-notch, and everything tastes fresh and carefully prepared. While it’s not cheap, the service and flavors make it worth the price. The staff are friendly and helpful, adding to the experience.

Whether you’re out for a special night or love Japanese cuisine, Raku delivers on all levels. It’s the perfect spot for Japanese food lovers in Canberra.

2. OMI Canberra

Google Rating: 4.7

Located at EG08/84 Bunda St, OMI Canberra is a modern Japanese fusion restaurant with a relaxed and casual vibe.

This Japanese restaurant in Canberra is unique for staying open longer than many other lunch spots in the city, which is great for late eaters.

Their menu features premium beef options, including Australian Wagyu and Japanese A5 Wagyu, known for rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

One of the most loved dishes is their truffle fries, a flavorful twist that keeps people coming back. Also, you can mix and match proteins like meat or fish with rice or noodles, along with sauces inspired by Asian cuisines.

Every item on the menu here is delicious, and the pricing is fair for the quality you get.

If you’re looking for a Japanese food spot in Canberra that offers authentic Japanese food and a welcoming atmosphere, OMI is a great choice for both casual lunches and special dinners.

3. KOTO Japanese Restaurant

Google Rating: 4.8

KOTO Japanese Restaurant is located at 1 King George Terrace, Parkes. It’s led by the award-winning chef Shinya Nakano, known for his expertise in high-end sushi and Japanese cuisine.

The restaurant offers both tasting menus and à la carte Japanese dishes available daily for lunch and dinner.

Their signature dishes include kingfish sashimi with truffle, wagyu tacos, and Nasu Dengaku—miso-glazed eggplant that’s rich and flavorful.

The ambiance is elegant with modern decor, and the indoor seating feels peaceful. Outside, the view of trees and greenery adds a calm, natural touch.

One thing you might notice is that the lighting near the entrance could be better, but the overall experience is still impressive.

KOTO is perfect for people looking for authentic Japanese cuisine in a scenic setting. With its fresh ingredients, expert preparation, and beautiful location, it offers a memorable Japanese dining experience in Canberra.

4. INKA Japanese Restaurant

Google Rating: 4.6

Located at B11A/148 Bunda St, INKA is a Peruvian-Japanese restaurant that offers the best of food that the two cultures have to offer.

It’s modern, stylish, and ideal for a date night or special occasion. Though it’s on the expensive side, the quality and experience here justify the cost.

We recommend you to try their $140 tasting menu, which includes Wagyu MBS8+ sirloin, Hokkaido scallops, Nasu Dengaku (miso eggplant), and more.

Each course is timed well, so you can enjoy a slow and relaxed meal. The presentation of dishes is beautiful, and the flavors are bold yet balanced.

The staff are attentive and knowledgeable, which adds to the overall experience.

INKA is a must-visit Japanese restaurant in Canberra if you’re looking for something different from a typical Japanese restaurant.

With its fusion menu, amazing service, and vibrant setting, it delivers a fresh take on Japanese dining in Canberra.

Also Read: Best Steaks in Canberra

5. Yakitori 38

Google Rating: 4.8

Located at 19/21 E Row, Yakitori 38 is a go-to spot for late-night Japanese cravings in Canberra.

Inspired by the bars of Osaka, this cozy Izakaya restaurant brings an authentic Japanese street food experience to the city.

The restaurant menu features a mix of traditional yakitori (grilled skewers), kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers), and some fun modern twists.

While prices may be a bit higher than typical izakayas, the taste and variety make it worthwhile. Their cocktail menu is a standout, offering a unique blend of Japanese-inspired drinks.

Best of all, they’re open late, making it perfect for night owls. If you’re in the city after hours and want quality Japanese food, this place should be on your list.

The staff are quick, friendly, and happy to recommend dishes if you’re unsure.

6. Iori Japanese Restaurant

Google Rating: 4.5

Iori Japanese Restaurant, located at 41 E Row, offers one of the best fine dining Japanese experiences in Canberra.

Known for its fresh ingredients and beautiful presentation, it’s the kind of place where every bite feels special.

The volcano roll is packed with flavor, and the generous sushi-for-two platter is both fresh and satisfying.

The seafood you’ll get here is so fresh that you might feel like you’re dining by the sea.

Also, don’t skip the mixed beef platter—it’s cooked perfectly and full of flavor. The yuzu wasabi on the side adds a nice citrusy kick.

The restaurant’s warm yet elegant atmosphere makes it ideal for both family dinners and special occasions.

It’s upscale but still welcoming, with friendly staff and a wide range of authentic Japanese dishes that cater to every taste.

Also Read: Best Yum Cha in Canberra

7. Inari Canberra Centre

Google Rating: 4.6

Located inside Canberra Centre at 148 Bunda Street, Inari offers traditional and authentic Japanese food with a modern touch.

The restaurant is named after the Japanese god of rice, and it shows great respect for its ingredients.

Their sushi and sashimi are made with locally sourced seafood and prepared with care. The tempura is excellent—crispy, not greasy, with perfectly cooked veggies, fish, and prawns.

The menu is broad, offering something for everyone, from sushi fans to noodle lovers. The drinks list is also well-curated with some great choices.

The restaurant has a sleek, clean interior that feels calm and inviting. Large round tables make it easy for group conversations, and they’re happy to split bills too.

For anyone craving well-executed, fresh Japanese cuisine in the city, Inari is a solid pick.

8. Tomo Tomo

Google Rating: 4.5

Located at 2/34 Marcus Clarke Street, Tomo Tomo stands out for its simple yet flavorful Japanese meals.

It’s especially great for a quick lunch or an affordable dinner.

Their beef rice bowl is full of flavor—tender meat, just the right spice, and a must-try homemade garlic chili sauce.

Also, the beef teriyaki is soft and easy to chew, with a sweet-savory glaze that pairs perfectly with rice.

The prawn tempura comes with crisp lettuce, adding a fresh crunch that’s a nice touch.

We’ll also recommend you order the spicy salmon sushi—fresh, tasteful, and well-balanced.

The service is quick, and the prices are budget-friendly without sacrificing quality.

Whether you’re on a lunch break or just want something filling and tasty, Tomo Tomo delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.