The 5 Best Japanese Restaurants In Canberra

Canberra boasts a plethora of fantastic restaurants, serving up all kinds of cuisine. But if it’s Japanese you’re looking for, there are a few favourites you need to visit. Whether it’s sophistication and class, or relaxation and comfort, you’re sure to find the place for you in these five, the best in Canberra.

Lilotang in The Burbury Hotel

Restaurant, Japanese, Asian, Sushi

Just across from sister restaurant Malamay is the newly opened Lilotang in the Burbury Hotel. Join the guests in the light, stylish and brilliantly colorful interior, with views out onto the hotels beautiful courtyard and the walls featuring many exciting references to Japanese pop culture. The exquisite food is the work of head chef Shunsuke Ota and his team, who have all been well trained in the arts of Japanese cuisine. The menu here includes an array of authentic, delicious dishes such as the much loved barbecued wagyu okonomiyaki, as well as some lesser known ones like roasted uami vegetables served in a hollowed orange! Price: Mid – High Opening Hours: Tuesday – Friday: 12pm – 2:30pm, Tuesday – Saturday: 5:30pm – 10:30pm Watch out for: The roasted uami vegetables served in a hollowed orange Address: 1 Burbury Cl, Barton ACT 2600, Australia

Iori

Right in the heart of Canberra is Iori, a fantastic Japanese restaurant serving up first class food packed with all the authentic flavors of Japan. The emphasis here is definitely on sharing, which is great because it means you can try so much more from their mouth watering menu! Why not go for the banquet for 4 at a reasonable $40 per person, and share a range of delicious dishes. I recommend the bowls, which are always amazing. Pair these with a bottle from their extensive wine list – or maybe even some premium sake! – and sit back and enjoy an evening of fun with friends and family. Price: Mid – High Opening Hours: Mon – Sat 12:00 – 14:00, 18:00 – late Watch out for: The banquet for 4 Address: 41 E Row, Canberra ACT 2601, Australia +61 2 6257 2334

Wasabi Teppanyaki in Civic

If there’s one thing that stands out here, it’s the food. Everything on the menu at Wasabi Teppanyaki is packed with flavor and is always made from the freshest ingredients. But dinner here isn’t just about the fantastic food, it’s a show as well! Sit up at the tables by the teppanyaki-style kitchen in the center of the restaurant and watch the incredible showmanship of the chef as he works his magic and serves up delicious dishes. Try the namesake teppanyaki wasabi, you definitely won’t be disappointed. Price: Mid Opening Hours: Lunch 11:30am – 2:30pm, Dinner 5:30pm – 10:30pm Watch out for: The teppanyaki style kitchen Address: Melbourne Building, Cnr Northbourne and Alinga Streets, Civic 2600 (02) 6262 6888

Hero Sushi

A favourite amongst locals and tourists alike, Hero Sushi definitely lives up to its name. After a friendly welcome from the staff upon arrival, take a seat at the sushi bar and dig in instantly! The sushi train, bringing freshly made dishes straight out of the kitchen (where you can see your food being prepared) is a sight in itself; who doesn’t love an interactive dining experience? And if you’re in the mood for something different, you can order more delicious dishes from their menu too; everything is packed with flavour and exciting combinations. Hero Sushi is a great place for a quick dinner before the theatre or a movie. Price: Low – Mid Opening Hours: Mon – Wed: 08:00-18:00, Thurs: 08:00-21:00, Fri – Sun:08:00-18:00 Watch out for: The Sushi train Address: Shop CL10, 148 Bunda St. Canberra Centre Shopping, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 2601 0294177722

Shogun

Restaurant, Japanese, Asian

miso soup with pork and vegetables / 今夜は豚汁だ

Shogun is all about serving up delicious Japanese favourites. From the moment you walk into the restaurant you are whisked away to Japan, in the center of Australia’s capital. Seated at your Japanese-style table on the floor, choose from a range of outstanding dishes, prepared by experienced chefs. Try the delicious Japanese classic shabu-shabu or one of their delicious miso soups. You can always rely on Shogun to serve up authentic and delicious Japanese cuisine. Price: Mid Opening Hours: Monday – Friday 11:30am – 2:00pm Monday-Saturday 5:30pm-10:30pm Watch out for: Their delicious miso soups Address: 70 Bunda St, Canberra ACT 2601, Australia Grace Berry

About the author

Grace Berry

I currently study History of Art and English Literature at Edinburgh University. Whilst living in this beautiful city I like to take full advantage of the plethora of Art and culture right on my doorstep! Other than studying, I spend my days visiting art galleries and exploring the Scottish capital. I love to travel, discovering exciting places and meeting new people. I also have a passion for Art and Illustration, which ignited whilst studying it several years ago, and it has grown more and more over time. I have journals full of drawings from trips around England, Europe and even further afield. I also enjoy writing and documenting my experiences, both for myself and also to share with a wider audience.