Best Japanese Restaurants in Istanbul

Istanbul is a city that thrives on culinary diversity, and its Japanese dining scene reflects this beautifully. From elegant omakase experiences overlooking the Bosphorus to cozy ramen bars tucked in quiet corners, the city offers something for every Japanese food enthusiast. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best Japanese restaurants in Istanbul—each offering its own take on authentic or modern Japanese cuisine.

---

1️⃣ Sankai by Nagaya (Bebek, Beşiktaş)

🍱 Cuisine: Omakase & Kaiseki | 💰 Price: $$$ | 🌸 Ambiance: Elegant & intimate
A collaboration between Michelin-starred chefs Yoshizumi Nagaya and Hiroko Shibata, Sankai is Istanbul’s pinnacle of Japanese fine dining. With only 24 seats and a serene, minimalist design, this omakase restaurant serves a multi-course culinary journey featuring Edo-style sushi, seasonal kaiseki dishes, and locally sourced Bosphorus fish.

Every dish is meticulously curated to reflect the balance of flavor, texture, and seasonality central to Japanese haute cuisine. Diners can expect delicate sashimi prepared with precision, warm miso-based soups infused with local herbs, and artistic presentations that rival the best omakase bars in Tokyo. The menu changes frequently depending on market availability, ensuring that repeat guests always experience something new.

The chefs use a combination of imported Japanese ingredients and fresh seafood from the Bosphorus, emphasizing harmony between East and West. The dining experience unfolds over multiple courses, beginning with light appetizers and culminating in perfectly tempered sushi, followed by a final dessert designed to cleanse the palate.

The restaurant’s minimalist interior design mirrors the purity of the cuisine — light wood accents, ambient lighting, and an open kitchen that allows guests to watch the chefs at work. Service is discreet yet warm, reflecting traditional omotenashi hospitality. Wine and sake pairings are thoughtfully chosen, highlighting subtle flavor notes from each course.

Guests describe it as “a Japanese dining adventure ready to impress”—a true slice of Japan in the heart of Bebek.

---

2️⃣ Nobu Istanbul (Elmadağ, Şişli)

🍣 Cuisine: Japanese-Peruvian Fusion | 💰 Price: $$$ | 🌆 Ambiance: Trendy & upscale
Located inside The Ritz-Carlton Istanbul, Nobu blends Japanese precision with Peruvian flair. Signature dishes like Black Cod Miso and Yellowtail Jalapeño are complemented by creative sushi and an omakase tasting menu.

Beyond its signature favorites, Nobu’s extensive menu features imaginative interpretations of Japanese classics with global influences. You’ll find tender wagyu beef tacos, king crab tempura, and sashimi prepared with house-blended sauces that perfectly balance acidity and spice. The omakase menu rotates seasonally, reflecting the availability of premium ingredients flown in from Japan and paired with regional produce from Turkey’s coastal waters.

The restaurant’s design is sleek yet welcoming—an elegant blend of natural wood, soft lighting, and modern art that mirrors the brand’s cosmopolitan spirit. Its open layout provides both intimacy and buzz, with the sushi bar and cocktail lounge adding to the lively atmosphere. Whether dining indoors or on the terrace overlooking the Bosphorus, guests are treated to an unmatched view of Istanbul’s skyline.

Beverage options are equally curated, offering a wide selection of sake, Japanese whiskies, and creative cocktails inspired by Asian flavors. Nobu’s mixologists craft drinks like the Yuzu Martini or Spicy Shiso Margarita to complement the umami-rich cuisine.

The service here is professional yet personable—servers are trained to explain each dish in detail, guiding guests through the menu for an optimal experience. It’s an ideal venue for romantic dinners, business events, or weekend celebrations. Dress code is smart casual, and reservations are essential to secure a spot at this globally renowned dining destination.

---

3️⃣ Zuma Istanbul (İstinye, Sarıyer)

🍶 Cuisine: Contemporary Japanese Izakaya | 💰 Price: $$$ | 🎎 Ambiance: Modern & lively
Zuma brings the London-born izakaya concept to Istanbul’s chic İstinyePark, blending modern Japanese sophistication with the social spirit of shared dining. The menu encourages sharing and discovery, featuring an impressive selection of robata-grilled meats—like miso-marinated black cod and tender wagyu beef skewers—alongside expertly rolled sushi and sashimi crafted with precision. Small plates such as spicy beef gyoza, crispy tempura prawns, and miso-glazed eggplant are ideal for pairing with cocktails or sake.

Beyond the menu, Zuma’s interior design plays a crucial role in its experience. With minimalist decor, soft lighting, and earthy textures, the restaurant evokes a tranquil yet cosmopolitan energy. An open kitchen allows guests to witness the craftsmanship behind each dish, while the lively bar scene attracts both locals and international visitors. The soundscape of subtle music and chatter creates an atmosphere that’s both energetic and refined.

Zuma Istanbul also offers an extensive drinks menu—premium Japanese whiskies, sake flights, and signature cocktails like the lychee martini and yuzu mojito—that complement the restaurant’s dishes perfectly. The service is attentive without being intrusive, ensuring each meal feels curated yet comfortable. During warmer months, the terrace becomes a hotspot, offering open-air dining where guests can savor delicate flavors against the backdrop of Istanbul’s stylish crowd.

With minimalist decor, an energetic crowd, and consistently outstanding flavors, Zuma offers a cosmopolitan dining experience where culinary artistry, ambiance, and social connection meet in perfect harmony.

---

4️⃣ ROKA Istanbul (Galataport, Beyoğlu)

🔥 Cuisine: Robata Grill & Sushi | 💰 Price: $$–$$$ | 🌊 Ambiance: Vibrant waterfront
From the creators of Zuma, ROKA Istanbul has quickly earned its reputation as one of the city’s hottest dining destinations. Overlooking the Bosphorus at Galataport, ROKA offers not only stunning views but also a menu that blends authenticity with innovation. Guests can enjoy perfectly marinated black cod, tender robata-grilled chicken skewers, and a wide range of fresh sashimi and sushi rolls prepared with meticulous precision. Each dish is designed for sharing, reflecting the spirit of Japan’s lively izakaya culture while capturing the vibrancy of Istanbul’s social dining scene.

Beyond its impressive cuisine, the restaurant’s setting is an attraction in itself. The open-plan interior showcases sleek lines, natural wood finishes, and a warm palette that echoes the glow of the robata grill. Large windows frame the Bosphorus, filling the dining area with natural light during the day and a romantic glow at night. The terrace, particularly in summer, becomes one of the most sought-after spots in Galataport for dining under the stars, surrounded by sea breezes and the hum of the city’s energy.

The menu expands far beyond sushi and grilled fish. Signature dishes include the soft-shell crab tempura, beef fillet with chili and ginger sauce, and delicately balanced miso-marinated eggplant. The sashimi selection is among the finest in Istanbul, with premium cuts of tuna, salmon, and sea bream, all sourced for freshness and quality. A thoughtful drinks program features Japanese whiskies, sake, and craft cocktails—each curated to complement the smoky, umami-rich flavors of the robata grill.

Service at ROKA is both polished and friendly, maintaining a casual yet refined tone that encourages guests to linger. The upbeat energy of the staff, combined with the background rhythm of music and conversation, creates an atmosphere that is both sophisticated and relaxed. It’s a venue equally suited for a lively dinner with friends, a romantic evening by the sea, or a stylish business meal.

The restaurant’s modern interior and upbeat energy make it perfect for group dinners or date nights with a view. Its consistent excellence, attention to detail, and waterfront charm have secured ROKA’s place among Istanbul’s most desirable Japanese dining experiences.

---

5️⃣ Sunset Grill & Bar (Ulus, Beşiktaş)

🍷 Cuisine: International with Japanese Sushi Bar | 💰 Price: $$$ | 🌅 Ambiance: Romantic & panoramic
A long-standing icon of Istanbul’s fine-dining scene, Sunset combines Mediterranean, Turkish, and Japanese cuisines in an exceptional setting that merges culinary sophistication with breathtaking scenery. Perched on a hilltop in Ulus Park, it boasts sweeping Bosphorus views that transition from dazzling daylight to twinkling city lights as evening falls. The open-air terrace, framed by lush greenery and overlooking the iconic bridges, provides one of the most picturesque dining backdrops in the city.

The restaurant’s Japanese sushi bar is a highlight on its own, operated by expert chefs who have mastered both traditional and contemporary techniques. Here, diners can indulge in silky sashimi, delicate nigiri, and signature sushi rolls that pair beautifully with the restaurant’s extensive sake and wine offerings. The sushi program emphasizes premium ingredients sourced daily, while seasonal specials showcase the best of local seafood through a Japanese lens.

Beyond the sushi bar, Sunset’s Mediterranean and Turkish sections offer an equally impressive variety. The grilled lamb chops, seared sea bass, and truffle risotto are among its most praised dishes, each prepared with elegant precision and modern flair. The dessert selection is equally memorable—think light matcha panna cotta or a rich chocolate fondant served with house-made ice cream.

Service at Sunset Grill & Bar reflects the venue’s upscale charm—professional, attentive, and discreet. Staff members guide guests through the extensive wine list, which features both Turkish vintages and international labels curated by an in-house sommelier. Sunset also offers a distinguished bar and lounge area where patrons can enjoy signature cocktails while soaking in panoramic Bosphorus vistas.

The atmosphere transforms throughout the evening: quiet and serene during early dinners, lively and elegant as night progresses. Music and lighting are carefully tuned to enhance the romantic and social ambiance, creating an experience that appeals equally to couples, business guests, and fine-dining enthusiasts.

The restaurant’s impeccable service, extensive wine list, and sunset terrace make it one of Istanbul’s most memorable dining experiences—a destination that perfectly captures the city’s cosmopolitan spirit and love of culinary artistry.

---

6️⃣ Akira Back Istanbul (Ataköy, Bakırköy)

🍤 Cuisine: Modern Japanese-Asian Fusion | 💰 Price: $$$ | 🌅 Ambiance: Sleek & seaside
Located inside the JW Marriott Marmara Sea, Akira Back delivers an inventive mix of Japanese and Korean flavors with a contemporary edge that perfectly complements its coastal surroundings. The restaurant’s elegant design features sweeping sea views, marble finishes, and moody lighting that transition from bright daytime hues to golden twilight tones, creating an atmosphere that feels both cosmopolitan and relaxing.

Chef Akira Back, a former professional snowboarder turned globally renowned chef, brings his signature energy and creativity to Istanbul. His culinary philosophy fuses traditional Japanese techniques with modern innovation and subtle Korean influences. Each plate tells a story—where East meets West, art meets flavor, and minimalism meets boldness. Signature items such as the famous Tuna Pizza, topped with truffle oil and microgreens, the Beef Tataki with ponzu and garlic chips, and Robata-grilled prawns exemplify this harmony. Diners can also indulge in delicate sushi rolls, sashimi platters, or the decadent AB Wagyu steak that melts in the mouth.

Beyond the main courses, Akira Back offers a range of inventive appetizers and desserts that elevate the experience. The Kimchi Fried Rice with crispy egg adds a spicy Korean twist to the menu, while the Yuzu Cheesecake brings a refreshing finish. The restaurant’s beverage list is equally impressive, featuring premium sakes, Japanese whiskies, and signature cocktails like the Marmara Breeze and Shiso Blossom—crafted with seasonal ingredients for an extra touch of sophistication.

Service at Akira Back is warm yet refined, with staff trained to guide guests through tasting menus and sake pairings. For those seeking a personalized journey, the restaurant’s omakase option allows diners to experience the chef’s curated favorites in a multi-course progression. The open kitchen adds a dynamic visual element, allowing guests to observe the chefs’ precision and artistry in real time.

With floor-to-ceiling sea views, a Michelin-recommended reputation, and an ethos that balances luxury with approachability, Akira Back stands out as one of Istanbul’s most compelling dining experiences. It’s equally suitable for romantic evenings, business dinners, or special celebrations where presentation, innovation, and flavor unite seamlessly.

---

7️⃣ Itsumi (4. Levent, Beşiktaş)

🍜 Cuisine: Traditional Japanese | 💰 Price: $$ | 🏮 Ambiance: Cozy & authentic
Hidden away in the İş Kuleleri complex, Itsumi is beloved by Japanese expats and locals alike. The restaurant exudes a tranquil and understated charm, with soft lighting, minimalistic décor, and a focus on the dining experience rather than opulence. Wooden accents, elegant tableware, and gentle background music create an atmosphere that feels like a comforting corner of Tokyo in the middle of Istanbul.

Chef Shunichi Horikoshi, who has spent decades perfecting the nuances of Japanese cuisine, leads the kitchen with a dedication to precision and simplicity. His dishes—ranging from steaming bowls of ramen and perfectly textured udon to delicate sushi and crisp tempura—are praised for their authenticity and balance. Each item reflects the seasonal rhythm of Japanese cooking, featuring fresh seafood, vegetables, and traditional condiments sourced both locally and from Japan.

Itsumi’s menu celebrates comfort and craftsmanship. The ramen broth is simmered for hours to achieve deep umami richness, while the sushi rice is prepared to the ideal temperature and acidity for balance. Favorites among regulars include the salmon sashimi platter, the light yet crunchy shrimp tempura, and the warming miso soup that starts nearly every meal. Diners can also explore donburi bowls, yakitori skewers, and small appetizers like gyoza and edamame that make sharing easy and enjoyable.

For those seeking a more exclusive experience, Itsumi offers an omakase by reservation—a multi-course tasting menu where Chef Horikoshi personally selects the day’s best ingredients to craft an elegant progression of flavors. The lunch sets are another highlight, offering generous portions and excellent value for a midday escape from the city’s bustle.

Beyond its cuisine, the restaurant is admired for its hospitality. The staff greet guests with gentle formality and kindness, reflecting Japanese omotenashi—a philosophy of wholehearted service. Whether you’re a business traveler looking for a quiet meal or a local sushi lover in search of authenticity, Itsumi provides a serene retreat that feels worlds away from the chaos of Istanbul.

The restaurant also offers takeaway for regular patrons who wish to enjoy Itsumi’s quality sushi and bento boxes at home. With its consistent excellence, meticulous attention to detail, and deep respect for Japanese culinary tradition, Itsumi stands as one of Istanbul’s most genuine and heartfelt Japanese eateries.

---

8️⃣ İoki Nau Karaköy (Karaköy, Beyoğlu)

🥢 Cuisine: Contemporary Sushi & Fusion | 💰 Price: $$ | 🍸 Ambiance: Stylish & upbeat
Housed inside the JW Marriott Bosphorus, İoki offers a vibrant blend of Japanese and Peruvian influences in an elegant, modern setting. The interior features sleek lines, soft lighting, and a sophisticated color palette that complements the hotel’s luxurious architecture. Guests can enjoy both indoor and terrace seating, with views that capture the energy of Karaköy’s bustling streets and the Bosphorus beyond.

The menu is a creative celebration of Asian fusion. Signature sushi rolls like the Volcano Roll, Tropical Roll, and Ioki Special combine bold flavors and textures with artistic presentation. Fresh ceviche and tiradito dishes showcase the restaurant’s Peruvian flair, offering tangy, citrus-forward notes that perfectly balance the richness of Japanese sushi. For warm dishes, guests can explore yakitori skewers, crispy tempura, and miso-glazed black cod. Each plate demonstrates the kitchen’s attention to detail and mastery of cross-cultural flavor harmony.

İoki also takes pride in its extensive beverage menu, featuring inventive cocktails such as the Wasabi Martini and Lychee Blossom, as well as an excellent selection of sake, wines, and Japanese whiskies. Their bartenders craft drinks that pair beautifully with both raw and cooked dishes, making the bar a destination in itself for after-work gatherings or weekend evenings.

Service is another area where İoki shines. Staff members are attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable, always ready to recommend pairings or guide newcomers through the menu. The restaurant’s atmosphere balances lively energy with refined hospitality—creating an environment that’s both trendy and comfortable. Music and lighting evolve through the evening, transitioning from bright lunch service to a more ambient, lounge-style dinner setting.

Beyond dine-in, İoki has become a favorite for delivery and takeaway, known for maintaining quality and presentation even in to-go orders. The brand’s commitment to consistency has earned it loyal patrons across Istanbul. Regulars appreciate the restaurant’s ability to merge creativity with reliability—a hallmark of modern fusion dining done right.

Overall, İoki Nau Karaköy embodies Istanbul’s cosmopolitan spirit through its combination of Japanese precision, Peruvian zest, and Turkish warmth. It’s not just a meal but an experience where culinary craftsmanship meets contemporary style, making it one of the city’s standout destinations for sushi and fusion enthusiasts.

---

9️⃣ Sushi Lab (Akaretler, Beşiktaş)

🍣 Cuisine: Sushi Bar | 💰 Price: $$ | 🌸 Ambiance: Trendy & casual
Sushi Lab’s sleek Akaretler location attracts young professionals, foodies, and devoted sushi lovers seeking both creativity and consistency. The space combines minimalistic Japanese aesthetics with modern Istanbul style—clean lines, soft ambient lighting, and warm wood finishes. Seating arrangements include cozy two-person tables and a small sushi counter where guests can watch chefs craft rolls with precision. The atmosphere feels lively yet laid-back, perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.

The restaurant has built its reputation on inventive sushi creations and attention to detail. Signature rolls such as the Amazon Roll, Bonito Roll, and Crispy Salmon Roll are designed to surprise with unique textures and complementary flavors—pairing tender fish with fresh vegetables, spicy mayo, and house-made sauces. Beyond rolls, the menu includes sashimi platters, poke bowls, and light appetizers like miso soup and edamame that enhance the dining experience. Freshness is paramount: seafood arrives daily, and the chefs prioritize high-quality ingredients in every bite.

Presentation at Sushi Lab is as important as flavor. Each dish is plated artfully with a focus on color balance and minimalism, embodying Japanese culinary philosophy while maintaining Istanbul’s vibrant flair. Plates arrive garnished with microgreens, thinly sliced citrus, or edible flowers, making each order as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Guests appreciate Sushi Lab for its balance of quality and value. Pricing remains fair despite the restaurant’s central location, allowing frequent visits without compromising luxury. Regular customers often highlight the efficiency of its online delivery service, which maintains the freshness and arrangement of dishes even in takeaway orders. The restaurant also offers combo boxes and lunch specials for those on tight schedules.

Staff at Sushi Lab are knowledgeable and approachable, ensuring every guest feels welcomed and guided through the menu. Their recommendations, especially for first-time visitors, help create a memorable dining journey—from crisp tempura starters to indulgent dessert options like mochi ice cream or matcha cheesecake.

With its perfect mix of youthful energy, culinary precision, and modern presentation, Sushi Lab stands out as one of the most accessible yet refined sushi destinations in Istanbul. It’s an inviting spot whether you’re stopping by for a quick sushi lunch, celebrating with friends, or simply exploring the evolving Japanese food culture of the city.

---

🔟 Udonya Japanese Restaurant (Taksim, Beyoğlu)

🍜 Cuisine: Ramen, Udon & Sushi | 💰 Price: $$ | 🏮 Ambiance: Simple & traditional
Located in the basement of Point Hotel Taksim, Udonya is one of Istanbul’s oldest and most beloved Japanese restaurants—a true hidden gem for those who appreciate authenticity over extravagance. The interior is modest but warm, featuring wooden partitions, paper lanterns, and the faint aroma of soy broth that instantly transports diners to a small ramen shop in Japan. Regulars praise the quiet and unpretentious environment, making it a perfect retreat from the bustle of Taksim Square.

Udonya’s menu is an ode to traditional Japanese comfort food. The ramen, available in varieties such as shoyu, miso, and tonkotsu, is cooked to perfection with springy noodles and rich, slow-simmered broth. The Udon noodles—thick, silky, and slightly chewy—are served in clear dashi or tempura-infused soups, offering warmth and simplicity in every spoonful. Their sushi is prepared in classic Edo-style fashion, focusing on balance rather than complexity, while donburi bowls like katsudon (pork cutlet rice bowl) and oyakodon (chicken and egg rice bowl) bring a hearty, home-cooked feel.

One of Udonya’s signature offerings is its bento box lunch sets, which combine miso soup, rice, grilled fish, tempura, and pickled vegetables—providing an authentic Japanese lunch experience rarely found in Istanbul. The restaurant also serves daily specials depending on fresh ingredient availability, occasionally introducing dishes such as yakisoba or teriyaki salmon.

Service at Udonya is humble yet thoughtful. Many of the staff have been with the restaurant for years, and their familiarity with both the cuisine and regular guests adds to its charm. Japanese expatriates often frequent the spot, seeking nostalgia in every bite, while Turkish patrons appreciate its honest, comforting food and fair prices.

While the décor remains understated, Udonya’s strength lies in its flavors and consistency. The ramen broth alone—crafted from pork bones, chicken, and vegetables simmered for hours—reveals the kitchen’s dedication to depth and tradition. Each dish is served fresh and unpretentiously, embodying the soul of everyday Japanese dining.

Though it doesn’t offer flashy presentations or fusion concepts, Udonya’s authenticity is precisely what sets it apart. For anyone seeking genuine Japanese comfort cuisine in Istanbul—whether on a rainy afternoon or a quiet dinner after exploring the city—Udonya delivers warmth, flavor, and a touch of Tokyo nostalgia in the heart of Beyoğlu.

---

1️⃣1️⃣ Take Sushi (Cihangir, Beyoğlu)

🍱 Cuisine: Sushi & Ramen | 💰 Price: $$ | 🎨 Ambiance: Intimate & artistic
Overseen by Chef Hiroki Takemura, Take Sushi brings authentic Japanese taste to Cihangir’s bohemian heart and has quickly become a local favorite among food enthusiasts seeking genuine Japanese craftsmanship. The restaurant’s décor mirrors the artistic energy of the neighborhood—modern yet understated, with natural wood elements, traditional shoji screens, and a soft lighting scheme that creates a sense of calm sophistication. The gentle scent of soy and toasted sesame greets you as you enter, instantly transporting diners to a Tokyo-style sushi bar.

Take Sushi features over 70 varieties of sushi, offering a range from classic nigiri and sashimi to creative rolls inspired by seasonal ingredients. Each piece is meticulously prepared using fresh fish flown in from both local Turkish suppliers and select Japanese imports, ensuring balance and precision in every bite. The soft-shell crab roll, one of the restaurant’s signature items, exemplifies Chef Takemura’s philosophy of combining texture and flavor harmony—it’s crispy yet delicate, with perfectly seasoned rice. Another standout dish, the shoyu ramen, features a deeply flavorful broth simmered for hours and complemented by hand-pulled noodles and tender slices of chashu pork.

In addition to sushi and ramen, the menu extends to yakitori skewers, udon noodles, and lightly fried tempura dishes that capture the essence of Japanese comfort food. Each course is presented with attention to detail, using minimalist plating that highlights the beauty of the ingredients themselves. Seasonal specials, such as grilled eel donburi or salmon tartare with yuzu, rotate throughout the year to keep the experience fresh for regular visitors.

Chef Takemura, who trained in renowned kitchens across Tokyo and Kyoto, emphasizes the importance of balance between authenticity and accessibility. He designed Take Sushi as both a neighborhood eatery and a cultural bridge, where Istanbul locals can experience Japanese dining traditions without pretense. The kitchen team, composed of both Japanese and Turkish chefs, collaborates seamlessly to maintain high standards of taste and consistency.

Service at Take Sushi reflects the Japanese spirit of omotenashi—genuine, respectful hospitality that anticipates guests’ needs without intrusion. Servers are knowledgeable about the menu, ready to suggest pairings such as cold sake, green tea, or crisp white wines that complement the clean flavors of the dishes. The restaurant also offers takeaway options for those who prefer to enjoy its signature rolls or ramen at home, carefully packaged to preserve freshness.

The relaxed yet elegant vibe of Take Sushi makes it an ideal spot for both casual dinners and special occasions. Whether you’re seated at the sushi counter chatting with the chefs or at a cozy corner table with friends, the experience feels intimate, authentic, and thoughtfully curated. It’s a place where tradition meets creativity, and where every meal feels like a quiet celebration of Japanese culinary art. The soft-shell crab roll and shoyu ramen are among the must-tries, but every visit promises a new discovery from the talented hands of Chef Takemura.

---

✨ Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking for Michelin-starred omakase, a lively robata bar, or an authentic bowl of ramen, Istanbul’s Japanese restaurants offer an exceptional culinary landscape. The city’s chefs masterfully combine traditional Japanese techniques with Istanbul’s rich local produce and waterfront views—making dining here a truly global experience.

From luxury icons like Sankai by Nagaya and Nobu to cozy favorites like Itsumi and Udonya, each venue reflects the harmony of precision, presentation, and passion that defines Japanese cuisine.