Best Japanese Restaurants in PJ

Yama-G is one of the few rare Halal Japanese fusion restaurants that offers an extensive variety of dishes in its menu. Each dish has an additional element besides the mix of ingredients that will help elevate and stand out from the rest – the series of sauces. The balance of flavour of its sauces were simply amazing. One of the highlight here is the Mango Waikiki Roll, which consists of salmon, avocado and mango slices, accompanied by a delicious blend of Yuzu sauce. If you’re in the mood to fill up your tummy to the max, check out their Sashimi Boat. Aesthetically presented over a boat are a medley of maguro, shiro maguro, fresh salmon, sweet shrimp, hokkigai, oyster, tamago and one piece of fresh yellow jack. Delicious! 

If you’re looking for a soothing, relaxing and quiet place to enjoy a variety of premium meat, Gyukingu may just be the place for you. Situated in the buzzing town of Kota Damansara, this cosy restaurant offers one of the best Japanese BBQ around the vicinity. From premium imported wagyu to sakura pork, one should taste them all. If you have trouble with timing, they are ready to offer their assistance to ensure that you enjoy your slice of meat at the perfect doneness. Not a fan of BBQ? Their fried rice is much revered by the patrons too. 

Despite the opening of indie cafés around the area, Izakaya Kushiraku is not easily intimidated and still stands strong with its servings of delightful Japanese gastronomy. The place is such an ideal place to respite from your busy schedule. They serve great udon and yakionigiri. The bowl of clear udon soup is purely delightful with a combination of sweet and salty flavour. The udon texture is smooth and springy along with naruto and fish flakes as garnish. You can also taste a bright flavour from the soup. Aside from that, the rice balls are just one of a kind. How do they prepare it? They grill the rice until it has a crispy texture. So when you take a bite, you will have a very nice crispy texture on the outside and soft in the inside. With a hint of salmon and a very strong soy sauce flavour to it, this dish is simply mouth-watering.

Ah, the feeling when the sound of sizzling meat hit your ears and the aroma emanate throughout the air- that’s what you will get here in Yakiniku Ishiya. The menu consists of a wide range of ingredients ranging from your favourite beef, lamb, and chicken. If you’re not feeling the BBQ vibe, they also have side dishes like udon, sushi and rice, all meticulously prepared by the skilled chef. If you have picked a BBQ meal, you can end your climax with scoops of ice creams till you belly says not again.  

Ichiban Izakaya is what you would call an empire of Japanese cuisine, with its extensive menu that translates to quality once hitting your palate. From the Teriyaki Grilled Fish to the Mentai infused Clams, they are nothing short of fresh and delicious. All of the dishes here are prepared meticulously, not only excelling from its sight, but also what it holds inside as taste. Not forgetting, the selection of Japanese beers that further complement your meal. What greater joy than delving down your meal while your eyes ogling the spectacular views of the city, especially during the daytime. 

Uroko Japanese Cuisine is a fairly rustic and industrial-looking restaurant located in Seksyen 17, Petaling Jaya. Unlike the standard Japanese restaurant, their take revolves around making traditional Japanese food into something more unique and interesting. The menu is pretty extensive as it ranges from appetisers to mains, and sides to desserts. The main attractions of Uroko Japanese Cuisine are definitely the sushi and yakitori, both of which are incredibly delicious and fresh. So if you're in the mood for something a little bit more exquisite, do consider Uroko Japanese Cuisine. 

Genji by Hilton PJ is certainly a Japanese restaurant worth noting. Inside, you'll find the place to be fairly well decorated with a very consistent Japanese theme. From the choice of furnitures to the colour and ambience of the place, it truly does set the mood without being too out of place. As for their dishes, you can expect quality ingredients to be used throughout the menu, as well as dishes crafted from scratch. And another main appeal here has to be their teppanyaki, which sure garners your attention. All and all, this is a great place for a light celebration or a dinner date. 

Don’t be disappointed that Ichiro Sushi Bar is not an actual bar, this Japanese place serves one of the best sushi and sashimi in the area. Fresh ingredients play a key role in Japanese food and this sushi bar understands that by offering the freshest food on its sushi. The chef is not stingy with the ingredients either, so you won’t be stuck 99% rice and 1% of salmon on your sushi. Besides being full of flavours, the platter is artistically arranged with colours, summing up the picture-perfect presentation. What are you waiting for? 

Using only the freshest and finest sets of ingredients, the Japanese cuisine here is not to be taken lightly. Do not be pushed away by the intimidating and luxurious looks, as they aim to keep it at a reasonable and affordable level. The thick cuts of sashimi here are served ice cold and will melt in your mouth with every second spent coating your palate with umami sensations. Other dishes like their Cold Udon in Sesame Sauce and Fried Burdock Salad are also top notch with their flavours and textures; certainly a satisfying restaurant. 

Kura Japanese Restaurant is what most would consider an all-in-one Japanese restaurant. Located in One World Hotel, this restaurant has quite crowd, especially during dinner service. From teppanyaki to sashimi and tempura to specially crafted sushi rolls, there's just something for everyone here. Not to mention that the place itself is really warm and inviting, as well as the service being excellent. Last but not least, you can expect Kura Japanese Restaurant to be fairly reasonable in price, though it may seem a little high, the price is justified by what they have to offer.

If you're not in the mood for something fancy, but still want something good and affordable, then perhaps you could visit Hanazen Japanese Restaurant at Jaya One. Like many other Japanese restaurants, they offer quite an extensive menu ranging from ramen to udons and teppanyaki to sushi. Pretty much anything you seek, they have it here. More importantly, the prices are reasonable and the quality is there, so don't worry so much about it. And before you complete your meal, do check out their waffles, which is stuffed with Japanese-flavoured ice cream.

Fans of Japanese curry rice rejoice as Shokuda is a place where you can indulge yourself in a wide array of Japanese Curry Rice. This modern and contemporary looking cafe is situated in Taman Paramount, PJ, and has been a pretty popular place for Japanese curry enthusiasts. On top of that are a variety of sides such as pork, seafood, vegetables and chicken, as each one of them are done quite nicely. Packing in a good load of flavour as well as texture while portions are good enough to bloat up your tummy. Not a fan of katsudon? Their udon noodles are widely revered too. 

Modern Japanese cuisine in a contemporary setting that is what Manmaru Robotayaki Bar is all about. If you're seeking for finesse in the presentation of a dish, as well as complex flavours that isn't found commonly in traditional Japanese restaurant, then you've got to pay them a visit. Not only are most of their dishes photo-worthy, each one of them are carefully crafted from scratch, ensuring that all 3 elements - presentation, taste and price are on point. So if you're planning to bring a date for dinner, why not try out Manmaru Robotayaki Bar today?

Sushi and rice lovers rejoice! If you're in the mood for some hearty sushi then Sushi Zento is definitely a place worth trying. They offer quite an extensive range custom sushi rolls and nigiri, all of which are made upon order. Aside from the rice-related dishes, the sashimi is also pretty fresh. Oh, let's not forget that they too serve imported Japanese beer and sake to pair, which is great if you're in the mood for light celebration. All and all, Sushi Zento is a neat little place that offers almost everything.

A stylish, contemporary and informal dining venue where an a la carte selection of customary Japanese specialties such as sushi, sashimi, tempura and teppanyaki takes center-stage. Live-cooking stations helmed by our chefs accord guests an upfront view of their culinary artistry. Four private rooms on premise also ensure corporate and personal entertaining needs are met. Signature specialties from Miyabi include Juju Wagyu Tenderloin, personally handcrafted and served by Chef Dino Png Say Keong, seasonal fish from Japan prepared in 3 different cooking styles at a singular price, and Teppanyaki Wagyu Tomahawk, freshly grilled and carved by the chef on request. Complete your dining experience with some artisanal Japanese rice wine, Zaku Miyabi No Tomo Junmai Gimjo.

Dontaku Japanese has a unique entrance, with the exterior of their walls lined with beautiful Japanese bowls and ornaments. Unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on where you stand), this is a non-halal business as it serves pork. Price ranges from more than RM10 to up to RM100, so it is a bit more expensive than the fast food restaurant chains but the huge selection of items on the menu that never fails to charm your taste buds makes it worthwhile. The atmosphere in the restaurant is casual enough for group meetings and a little photoshoot.

Touted by its fans as “one of the best Japanese restaurants in KL”, Rakuzen serves consistently good Japanese food across all its branches and the one in Petaling Jaya is no different. Rakuzen offers quality Japanese cuisines for reasonable prices and has highly recommended dishes including its signature Beer Sukiyaki and Spider Roll Temaki. This Pork-free establishment offers VIP rooms for those who’re looking for a more intimate experience. The set meals has a good-size portion that will leave you satisfied and happy. Overall, for those of you in a budget, this place is more than satisfying. 

This fine dining Japanese restaurant is well known for serving the best Japanese food in Kuala Lumpur. It has since branched to offer the same level of excellently cooked and served Japanese cuisine in Petaling Jaya. It offer an extensive selection of sake and freshly made Japanese food from ingredients flown directly from Japan. It offers Sunday Lunch Buffets for up to RM150 for adults and RM85 for children five to ten years old. The buffet is also available for public holidays and the premise is able to hold up to 200 people. If you’re not up for such a big meal, on normal hours it serves food from its menu as well!

Some of you may know, while some of you may not, Fugu is a term used to name the Japanese Puffer Fish. Yes, those cute little fishes that has an incredible amount of poison within them and if eaten incorrectly, will cost death. To be able to prepare the Fugu does not only require skill and patience, but a certificate from the right authority to prove that you're well trained and ready to go. Sure, eating your way to death isn't the most exciting thing that is why there are quite a variety of other complimenting dishes as well. All and all, you can expect pretty good things from Fugu Japanese Restaurant.

Finesse doesn't get any better with Yuzen Japanese Restaurant. This semi-fine Japanese establishment has been known for their reasonable price to quality ratio, which is great for those who are looking for something a little more luxurious, without destroying their wallets or bank accounts. To start, one should definitely try out the Omakaze Sashimi, which uses air-flown fishes handpicked by the chef.  For something to fill you tummy and some sides, perhaps the garlic fried rice, some sushi rolls and grilled squid? These are some of the best items available, but you're always free to explore.

In need of a Japanese buffet? Aoki-Tei is your go-to restaurant then as they specialise in all things Japanese buffet! They offer fresh sashimi, friendly service and a nice ambience for a group meal. Free-flow beer is offered too during lunch hour (and sake for dinner!). 

Hokkaido Kita No Zen is large enough to handle big groups as they offer a huge repertoire of Japanese delicacies on its menu. It serves sushi with the freshest ingredients and pleasant presentation but sadly, the dishes does not come cheap. Nevertheless, they are well worth the money. The salmons are freshly imported and adeptly assembled by the well-trained chefs. Bring over your entire entourage to savour as much dishes as you can. On a side note, the place is fairly large, so to get the staff’s attention might be a little difficult. 

Having been in New York for 25 years, Chef Fuji has brought back his concept of fusion dining into Malaysia with Iku Japanese Concept Dining. Located in Damansara Uptown, the restaurant has a casual and warm ambience with a huge menu offering a variety of traditional and fusion Japanese dishes. Some of the best sellers include the Salmon Belly Osaka Sushi, Rock Shrimp Martini, New York Roll and the Eiffel Tower. One of the key element to making this Japanese fusion a success is the amount of handmade sauces, which gives the dishes a significant amount of depth and flavour.    

For fried pork cutlet lovers, you'll be glad to have visited Tonkatsu by Ma Maison. After all, as their name suggests, that is their signature dish. Each piece of tonkatsu, or any other fried cutlets comes with a crispy and light crust on the outside, while on the inside, it's incredibly juicy and tender. Each set also comes with a side of shredded cabbage, horseradish, soup, and of course, a bowl of rice to bind everything together. So if you're in the mood for some of these, definitely check them out!

Sushi Tei, like many other Japanese franchised restaurant, is a place where you'll visit when you run out of options, or perhaps stuck in a place you least desire. But unlike many other brands, Sushi Tei is certainly one of the better franchised restaurants. Their main selling point, the sushi, is made with ingredients that are fresher, while being competitive on the pricing as well. Other dishes such as ramen, udon, dons and many more are also available as part of their ala-carte menu. Also, the dining area is pretty spacious and exudes warm and comforting vibes. 

Although it may not be purely Japanese, Sanoook Thai & Japanese Fusion certainly does hit the notes with its enticing flavours and stunning presentation. The use of Japanese produce with Thai flavours truly does take fusion dishes to a whole new level, delivering something that not many people has done before. One fine example would be their Tuna with Tomyam Sauce Sushi Roll, which is traditional 'maki' topped with homemade tomyam sauce, tastes absolutely amazing! So if you're in the mood for both Japanese and Thai, then you've got to pay Sanoook a visit.

Moku Japanese Grill is a place where you can enjoy a delicious array of Japanese skewers, also known as yakitori. Nestled in Oasis Damansara, this warm and cosy place is the only restaurant within the area to offer Japanese skewers, and they're pretty good at that. From their signature chicken wings, which is nicely salted before grilling, is absolutely delicious, to their array of seafood and vegetable skewers, all of which are excellent. After all, the boss himself handles the grill, ensuring that everything that comes out is of quality. Sidestepping from expected fares, one can also savour dishes like burgers and pastas which are equally admired by the patrons. 

Hokkaido Sushi is another restaurant where you can get your daily fix of Japanese food. Located in One Utama, this restaurant has almost everything that you'll need or seek for in a Japanese restaurant. Apart from their standard selection of classic Japanese dishes such as rice, noodles, tempura and grill, the selection of sushi too are pretty good. Aside from that, the sashimi here is really good too. Most importantly, they're made fresh upon order. The toughest part would be steadying your hands to take pictures while your stomach growls multiplies. 

If you're up for Japanese fusion cuisines, give Fujiyama a try. Here, they serve nicely-presented cuisines like sushi and sashimi with a fusion touch as their speciality. Of course, they also serve the traditional Japanese bento and sushi, like other outlets. Overall, the food is pretty good and quite reasonably-priced.

Koyaku is a nice place for a quick lunch break. Presenting a cosy Japanese deco and friendly service, the food is nice and decently-priced. They offer set meals for lunch and dinner too to better cater to your wallet. 

If you're craving for top-notch Japanese cuisine around PJ area, head on to Minori. Located in The Royal Chulan Damansara, it is a high-end Japanese restaurant so the food is pricey but definitely worth it. The menu is widely varied and the staffs are nice and friendly too. You may wanna miss out on the buffet, however, as they are more catered towards a la carte dining.

Nippori is another great spot for a Japanese meal. They aim to provide customers with the experience of eating home-cooked meals in a Japanese house, hence the small space, the homely decor and the lovely food. The price may be slightly high but is justified by the taste and portion size.