The Big Easy may be famous for Southern cuisine, but you can also find a best Japanese restaurant in New Orleans for everything from interactive barbecue to refined omakase spots in the city.
Feast on celeb-loved buttery miso black cod in the Central Business District. Grill your own cuts of premium marinated meats in the Warehouse District. Hit up a limited-seating omakase experience in the French Quarter.
Book a table at a best Japanese restaurant in New Orleans, available on OpenTable today.
Read on to discover the 5 best Japanese restaurants in New Orleans right now.
For omakase paired with gorgeous cocktails at a best Japanese restaurant in New Orleans — check out Yo Nashi (Central Business District)
Tucked into a historic building, Yo Nashi brings refined Japanese dining to the Big Easy with its sophisticated, multi-course omakase experience. Grab a seat at the intimate counter to watch as chefs transform Gulf seafood and seasonal ingredients into artful courses that blend Japanese tradition with New Orleans flair. Sashimi and sushi are also on the menu. Wash it all down with the signature Jack Pear cocktail.
For chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s iconic dishes with Big Easy flair — book a table at Nobu (Central Business District)
Located in Caesars Palace, Nobu melds Japanese precision with New Orleans soul. The sleek architectural dining room sets the stage for legendary James Beard award-winning chef Nobu Matsuhisa‘s signature dishes, from stellar sushi to miso black cod and yellowtail sashimi with jalapeño. Local influences shine through in unique-to-NOLA dishes like crispy okra. The expansive beverage menu and standout desserts make every meal feel like a special occasion.
For festive communal table grilling — head over to Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ (Warehouse District)
A lively spot to gather with friends, Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ brings the communal dining of Japanese yakiniku to New Orleans. Grill premium meats like harami skirt steak and garlic-marinated kalbi short ribs over charcoal grills built into each table. Epic happy hour food and drink specials keep this spot constantly buzzing for those looking for a good time.
For an exclusive omakase experience and one of the best Japanese restaurants in New Orleans — try Kenji Omakase (French Quarter)
Located in the historic French Quarter, Kenji Omakase is where you go for a multi-course, Japanese-inspired tasting menu. Expect expertly crafted nigiri, decadent uni, and wagyu, all presented with chef Matthew Nguyen’s signature touch in a sleek, minimalistic space. With just a handful of seats, this is the kind of place sushi lovers dream about—elegant, exclusive, and unforgettable.
For mid-priced hibachi, sushi, and tempura that always hits the spot — book a table at Osaka Japanese Cuisine (Houma)
Osaka Japanese Cuisine is a go-to lunch and dinner spot for locals, bringing all the fun of hibachi to Houma. If you’re not in the mood for an onion volcano, there’s also a broad selection of Japanese-inspired dishes, such as rolls, tempura, and wok-fired noodles. The comfortable, neutrally decorated dining room is made for gathering with friends and family, whether for a weeknight dinner or to celebrate a momentous day.
Whatever type of Japanese cuisine you’re craving, New Orleans has got you covered. From hibachi with boisterous grill-side seating, innovative sushi rolls made with fish flown in straight from Japan, or thoughtfully curated omakase menus to savor over for hours, the options are endless. Remember, the best seats fill up fast, so make sure to book a table ahead of time.
Secure your spot at the best Japanese restaurant in New Orleans by reserving ahead on OpenTable today.
Now that you find out the best Japanese restaurants in New Orleans, discover more trending dining options in the city with these guides:
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Esther Carlstone is a travel and food writer based in Los Angeles. Her work has appeared in publications such as Travel + Leisure, Lonely Planet, Forbes, Tripadvisor, Insider, and more. Follow her on Instagram @familyfieldtrip.
