The Best Japanese Restaurants In Rome

Rome is a foodie heaven that is home to some of the world’s finest restaurants. Avoid the tourist traps and hiked-up prices of the city’s famous names and explore the Italian capital’s newest passion: Japanese food. The combination of quality Italian produce and expert Japanese cooking makes for a match made in heaven. Here’s our guide to discovering the best of both Europe and Asia in Rome’s growing Japanese culinary scene.

1. Doozo

Bar, Restaurant, Japanese, Sushi, Asian

Not simply a sushi bar, Doozo doubles up as an art gallery, book shop, and even hosts exhibitions and classes in everything from sushi making to ceramics. A truly creative atmosphere accompanies the food here, making Doozo a favorite with Rome’s bohemian crowd. Diners come to enjoy plates of artistically presented sushi while flicking through the fascinating art books on the shelves, or relaxing in the tranquil garden at Doozo. Enjoy an authentic green tea while soaking up the inspiring atmosphere.

2. Hasekura

Restaurant, Sushi

Located just a stone’s throw away from the stupendous landmark of Rome’s Colosseum, Hasekura is an ideal stop off for visitors exploring Rome’s historic Monti district. Come and refuel in the elegantly minimalistic interior of this sushi bar. Delicate flavors of the food don’t overpower but simply melt in the mouth, and the delightful presentation ensures that the dining experience at Hasekura is a pleasure for all the senses. A reasonably small restaurant, the atmosphere is intimate and the focus is on the customer and their experience.

3. Rokko

Restaurant, Japanese

Run by Japanese owners, authentic flavors simply burst from the plates here at Rokko. The diverse menu is sure to cater to all tastes, with everything from juicy whole salmon to crispy and delicious tempura. Whatever you’re looking for, whether it’s a light portion of sushi, or a hearty plateful of grilled fish, you’re sure to find it on the dazzling menu at Rokko. The drinks list offers similarly tempting options including a wonderful choice of authentic cocktails, wines, and teas. We recommend trying the plum wine. The restaurant’s beautiful garden adds the finishing flourishes to the wonderful experience at Rokko.

4. Kenko

Restaurant, Japanese, Sushi

Tucked away just behind the buzzing area surrounding Termini, Rome’s main station, this contemporary Japanese restaurant lies at the heart of all Rome’s transport connections, linking the district to every part of the city. This conveniently located restaurant draws diners in with enticing aromas of the wonderfully spiced broths and perfectly flavored fish dishes that make up the menu here. An elegant interior and pristine white color scheme reflect the simplicity, yet attention to detail, that makes the food at Kenko so memorable.

5. Ginza

Restaurant, Japanese

Japanese cookery prioritizes high quality ingredients

The unbeatably central location of this Japanese restaurant between Rome’s Termini Station and the great Colosseum, makes it an ideal choice to refuel after a busy day exploring Rome’s rich history. In addition to a wide range of classic sushi dishes, Ginza offers a grill menu which serves up succulently grilled fish and meat with seasonings to tantalize even the most discerning of taste buds. The menu also features fascinating Japanese fusion foods which add modern twists to classic Japanese recipes. Ginza’s chic ambiance attracts Rome’s most elegant residents, including various Italian celebrities.

6. Hamasei

Restaurant, Japanese

Hamasei is extremely convenient for travelers exploring this Northern region of Rome. Watch the chef prepare your food fresh in front of you at this little corner of Asia. Diners at Hamasei can be sure that every ingredient on their plate is of the highest quality making it unsurprising that Hamasei was featured in the Michelin Dining Guide for its excellent cuisine. The minimalist, decor gives the restaurant a truly modern feel and has made it a popular hang out for Rome’s trendy types.

7. Genkai

Restaurant, Japanese

Though a little further from the city center, the quality of the food at Genkai ensures that the journey is worth it. The love and dedication which goes into each dish at Genkai comes through in the delicate flavors and exquisite presentation of every mouthful. For sushi-lovers needing a Japanese fix in Rome make the pilgrimage to this temple of Eastern cuisine for the real deal. Part of the restaurant has even been designed to resemble a traditional Japanese tearoom. The quality here makes Genkai exceedingly popular with the locals and it can get very busy.

8. Makoto

Makoto

For hungry travelers seeking a refuel, make a beeline for the all you can eat menu at Makoto. Nowhere else in Rome will you find the such a fantastic balance of quality, quantity, and value for money. The selection of grilled fish is particularly excellent. We recommend the shrimp skewers. Pile plates high with these delicious and juicy treats showcasing the best of what East Asian can offer, without having to break the bank.
Address & telephone number: Makoto, Via Beniamino De Ritis 10, Rome, Italy, +39 06 438 3754

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