Ranking
The best places to eat in Japan
An editorial ranking of restaurants, cafés and bars: grades from A+ to F, price range, and the Tabelog score where one exists.
Places ranked: 1,522
77
Kushi Katsu A-bon: Exceptionally Refined Kushi-age
Hyōgo · Fine Dining
A destination for kushi-age in Ashiya, Hyogo, where an omakase of over 20 skewers showcases an incredibly light, non-greasy frying technique. The relaxed counter service makes it a benchmark for the genre.
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78
Kyotenjin Noguchi: Generous, Ingredient-Led Kyoto Omakase
Kyoto · Fine Dining
A theatrical, ingredient-focused omakase in Kyoto's Kamigyo ward. Known for its lavish use of seasonal produce and a famously extensive choice of finishing dishes, it offers a lively, generous alternative to traditional kaiseki.
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79
Kiu: Creative Private Omakase
Kyoto · Fine Dining
An exclusive five-seat sushi counter in Kyoto's Shimogyo ward, Kiu (きう) offers a unique omakase that blends bold Western ingredients with precise Japanese technique. It is a destination for a highly creative, private dining experience, accessible…
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80
Chinese Sai guu: Theatrical Counter-Style Chinese
Kyoto · Fine Dining
A six-seat counter in Kyoto's Nakagyo ward where a chef performs culinary theatre with high-power burners and giant steamers. Go for the signature 'Swan' pastry and a uniquely crisp, two-cut Beijing duck.
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82
Kurosaki: High-End Omakase Sushi
Tokyo · Fine Dining
In a minimal, sunken space in Minamiaoyama, chef Kurozaki serves a theatrical omakase for just 10 guests at a time. Expect a procession of elaborate small plates and precisely formed nigiri using rare, seasonal ingredients.
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83
PELLEGRINO: Theatrical Italian Omakase
Tokyo · Fine Dining
In a quiet corner of Ebisu, PELLEGRINO offers an exclusive Italian omakase for just six guests at a time. The experience is a two-part culinary performance, culminating in a celebrated ritual of slicing rare cured hams.
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84
TOM Curiosa: Ingredient-Driven Italian Omakase
Osaka · Fine Dining
An acclaimed Italian restaurant in Osaka's Sonezakishinchi district, known for its omakase menu that marries seasonal Japanese ingredients with high technique. A destination for its signature prosciutto and creative pasta dishes.
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88
Kizan: A Revival of Legendary Kyoaji Cuisine
Tokyo · Fine Dining
A near-perfect revival of the legendary restaurant Kyoaji, Kizan is an intimate 8-seat counter in the Nihonbashi area. Chef Kimimori Yuki, Kyoaji's last disciple, serves a single omakase that meticulously recreates his master's signature dishes and…
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92
Sushi Nishizaki: Top-Tier Edomae Sushi
Tokyo · Fine Dining
An acclaimed sushi bar in Setagaya's Kitazawa district, known for its obsessive technique and signature dishes like silky monkfish liver and multi-layered squid nigiri. It offers exceptional value for its high-end omakase experience.
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94
Nishibuchi Hanten: Kyoto-Style Chinese Cuisine
Kyoto · Fine Dining
In Kyoto's Higashiyama district, this acclaimed restaurant offers a unique fusion of Chinese cuisine with Japanese kaiseki techniques. It's known for its intimate counter setting in a renovated townhouse.
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96
WASA: Innovative Counter-Style Chinese Cuisine
Tokyo · Fine Dining
In an intimate eight-seat theatre in Shibuya's Higashi district, Chef Yamashita presents a theatrical omakase that reinvents Chinese classics. It's a destination for diners seeking obsessive technique and unforgettable signature dishes like warm…
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97
Yakitori Taniguchi: A Masterclass in Takasaka Chicken
Hyōgo · Fine Dining
A top-tier yakitori counter in Amagasaki, celebrated for its theatrical omakase dedicated entirely to rare Takasaka chicken. A destination for connoisseurs seeking impeccable fire control and unique preparations.
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98
Sushi Matsuura: Omakase with Generous Portions
Tokyo · Fine Dining
An acclaimed sushi counter in Shirokane, known for its generous portions and signature dishes. Sushi Matsuura offers an omakase experience that reviewers call exceptional value for its price point, though reservations are notoriously difficult to…
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100
Hirosawa: Refined Chinese Counter Dining
Kyoto · Fine Dining
In a quiet part of Kyoto, Hirosawa (廣澤) offers a refined take on Chinese cuisine from an intimate counter overlooking a garden. It's a destination for its signature kiln-roasted char siu and creative, seasonal tasting menus.
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