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If you thought Bangkok was only for shopping and visiting the stunning Grand Palace, you could not be farther from the truth. The city is also a delight for foodies. And it’s not just Thai cuisine that I am speaking of.

Bangkok, in the recent years, has truly graduated to a cosmopolitan city, simply based on its culinary delights. And there is one cuisine that is taking the city by storm – Japanese.

The city is home to a few dozen Japanese restaurants. These range from family-run cosy home-style eateries to swanky fine-dining restaurants and bars. It doesn’t matter if you are a pro in Japanese food or still trying to figure out what Yakitori is – Bangkok surely has something for you.

But wait! With so many Japanese restaurants to choose from – where do you start? Google? Good luck if you are familiar with udon, tempura, sashimi, gyoza… No?

Well, Japanese food is not just sushi and ramen noodles. There is so much more to explore and enjoy. So read on for some of the top affordable Japanese eateries in and around central Bangkok, that even the Japanese expats in Bangkok love!

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1. A fine slice of Okinawa Islands in Bangkok – Kinjo Okinawa

Okinawa is a set of islands in Southern Japan… And Kinjo Okinawa is a small and cosy Japanese eatery, that brings some of the most authentic flavours of those islands – right into the heart of Bangkok.

Photo Via Instagram memonjourney, Fernchonchaya

Don’t be disheartened if the ground floor is full. There are two more floors upstairs.

Photo Via Ken_leing, _donnajon_

At Kinjo Okinawa, you must try the tofu dishes. Not too fond of tofu? No problem. There are plenty of other vegetarian options to choose from. For the rest, there’s pork belly and squid ink Yakisoba.

Photo Via Joymymelody, Nootysumment, Tamonlife, Soldevi
Photo Via Ningjingle, Fo5nrattana

Pair it with some Aomori, a sochu-styled Okinawan alcohol, and you’re good to go!

Kinjo Okinawa

Price: From 200 Baht / approx.USD $6
Address: 24 Sukhumvit 69 Alley, Khwaeng Phra Khanong Nuea, Khet Watthana, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10110, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Nearest BTS Station: 3 min walk from Phra Khanong BTS Station
Contact: +66 2 711 0536
Opening hours: Daily from 11.30am to 12midnight

Website


2. In the mood for some hidden Japanese Yakitori? – Jidori Cuisine Ken

Are you a fan of grilled food? Then Jidori Cuisine Ken is the place for you. There are plenty of Yakitori (grilled) dishes to choose from.

Photo Via Waran_zhan

Ask the regulars, and they would vouch that this is the best Yakitori place in Bangkok. Jidori also has a huge menu to prove this point. If it’s all too overwhelming, then just go for a set meal. You will get a variety of skewers and a salad. Don’t forget to add a glass of beer or sake to wash it down.

Photo Via Stamarista, Waran_zhan
Photo Via Kiji.lifeeats, Kinnaipaigun, Punntt

This small eatery with its log cabin style décor and Izakaya feel, adds to the ambiance.

Photo Via Amypawanpatsorn, Pikapikajean

Jidori is set in a Soi (small road), and may be slightly tricky to find. But it’s worth ‘hunting down’ this hidden gem for the perfect Japanese meal.

Jidori Cuisine Ken

Price: From 450 Baht / approx. USD $13.50
Address: Sukhumvit Rd, Khwaeng Khlong Tan, Khet Khlong Toei, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10110, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Nearest BTS Station: 5 min walk from Phrom Phong BTS Station
Contact: +66 2 661 3457
Opening hours: Mon-Sat from 5pm to 12 midnight; Sundays from 5pm to 10pm

Website

3. Enjoy happy hours with Izakaya! – Hiyaku Yakitori

Looking for a break while shopping at Central World? Take the elevator to the 2nd floor where you will find Hiyaku Yakitori – a chic izakaya (Japanese resto-bar).

Photo Via Siam2nite.com, Micky.glitteringblinkblink

The large glass windows and the brightly lit bar makes the décor look very cheerful. And not to mention the happy hours on food.

Photo Via Siam2nite.com, Kongsurasak92

Yes! They have discounts on their food almost every day. Post lunch hours, this Izakaya also offers live DJ music.

Although there’s a wide menu to choose from, my pick would be the fish sushi rolls. In fact, every Tuesday and Friday, the Izakaya has a small event to display the fresh fish. The Kushiyaki – vegetarian and non-vegetarian skewers – is also a treat for the Japanese-food-starved soul.

Photo Via Chavisa.m
Photo Via Chavisa.m, Pqueenp, Mc_karoon

Here’s another tip for you. If you choose a fried fish item, especially one which is salty, try to team it with a beer. The less salty ones will go well with the wines too.

Hiyaku Yakitori

Price: From 80 Baht / approx. USD $2.50
Address: Groove ชั้น 2, G218 Rama I Rd, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Nearest BTS Station: The building is connected to the Siam BTS Station
Contact:  +66 2 264 5555
Opening hours: Daily from 11am to 1am

Website

NOW CLOSED: 4. Try the freshest Japanese food in Central Bangkok – Nippon Kai Market

The large neon sign outside may make you think it’s just a fish market. And if that prompts you to walk away – you have just missed some of the freshest Japanese food in town.

Nippon Kai is an intimate restaurant/seafood supplier to several restaurants in Bangkok. So the freshness of the food here is beyond doubt, and the prices range from affordable to affordable luxury – depending on what you order.

Photo Via Bob2510, Pantip.com_
Photo Via Jingerbell_yong, Pohn_miku

We were shocked by how extensive the menu was (over 100 items listed), and found it hard to choose something to order! We absolutely loved the Salmon Aburiskin Roll (280 Baht).

Photo Via Siraaung, 30nov1996, Nongblackhead, Wwaterr.food_
Photo Via Siraaung, Nnuttokt, Ploynamploy

If you’re ready to shell out a few extra dollars, then you can try some premium Japanese seafood here. For example, Uni (sea urchin roe), Otoro (tuna belly), and Unagi (freshwater eel).

Yes, Unagi… Which Ross thought was ‘a state of total awareness’, before Rachel told him it’s a sushi! F.R.I.E.N.D.S? Anyone?

At Nippon Kai, you can choose your seafood from the counter and then watch the cook transform it into a supreme delight for your taste buds. Pssst! My pick would include the Saba Misoni Don (rice and fried mackerel) and Manuke Saikyo Zuke (crispy red rockfish).

Photo Via Christao408, Oattponpob

Nippon Kai Market

Price: From 100 Baht / approx. USD $3
Address: Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Nearest BTS Station: 10 min walk from Thong Lo BTS Station
Contact:  +66 2 662 5683
Opening hours: Daily from 12pm to 3pm, 6pm to 10.30pm

Website

5. For the sake of some ‘sake’ – Hanakaruta

No list of Japanese cuisine can be complete without a mention of sake. Named after a popular set of gaming cards in Japan, Hanakaruta is a popular watering hole with plenty of Japanese alcohol to choose from.

Photo Via Stedeck, Stellajkim2511, Absolutenatt, Jameschancharu

When you walk in to Hanakurta, you are welcomed by this huge ceiling-high shelves stacked with numerous sake and spirits. So if you’re wondering what Japanese beer or whiskey tastes like, this is your elementary school! And if you are already a pro, ‘kanpai’ !

Photo Via Bk-cdn.asia-city.com_
Photo Via Anapatsv, Nattaya17
Photo Via Ingsasiphim, Nastasiastierli

Did I mention, the food of this restopub is also a hit. With their small and spicy portions, they are the perfect partner for your drinks. Take your pick from vegetable pizza, pickled cuttlefish, or Sashimi.

Photo Via Jomnongcount, Nan_apantree, Nicha_cha, Itisaugusteats

Hanakurata

Price: Alcohol from 500 Baht / approx.USD $15; Food from 300 Baht / approx. USD $9
Address: Sathon Soi 10, Khwaeng Silom, Khet Bang Rak, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10500, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Nearest BTS Station: 10 min walk from Surasak BTS Station
Contact:  +66 2 635 1239
Opening hours: Mon-Sat, 5.30pm to 2am

Website

6. Wondering what Lavender Beer tastes like? – Kenshin Izakaya

The entrance to this small Japanese Izakaya looks like a carnival of colours. And carnival it is, also for your taste buds. The place is so bright and cheerful that it will lift your spirits, before you sip on one.

Photo Via Pinterestangieng

The faux cherry-blossom petals, the cosy courtyard, and the huge drinks – no wonder the Japanese expats crowd here after office.

Photo Via Ekachailert, Kungthurd, Nattanun_k

Kenshin has the widest variety of some unique Japanese beers in the whole of Bangkok. The Lavender Beer and Sakura Beer deserve a special mention. And of course, there is the ever popular Asahi beer.

Photo Via Realmintniich, Jane_krab

Now the food. Kenshin Izakaya has a long list of grilled food to choose from. But the one that you just cannot miss is the Aburi Shime Saba.

Photo Via Editguide.com, Viangping_cth_, Royceeetan, Arch_toming159

Not just for the taste but also for the visual spectacle that comes with it. The raw mackerel fillet is blowtorched – with its blue and yellow flames – to its sumptuous best right in front of your eyes!

Kenshin Izakaya

Price: From 200 Baht / approx.USD $6
Address: 155 Asok Montri Rd, เเขวงคลองเตยเหนือ Khet Watthana, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10110, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Nearest BTS Station: 5 min walk from Asok BTS Station
Contact:  +66 2 661 6202
Opening hours: Daily from 11.30am to 12 midnight

Website

7. Ever had a sushi sandwich? – Isao

If you are randomly googling the top Japanese restaurants in central Bangkok, Isao will turn up in most of the lists. So what is it that makes this place so droolworthy?

Photo Via Yipstermatic, Nattapolta

For one, Isao makes some of the most innovative sushi fusions in Bangkok. Take a bite of their sushi sandwich, and you will know exactly what I mean. If you’re not sure which sushi to order, just go for the platter and you will not be disappointed!

Photo Via Nattrasita, Yimmuu
Photo Via Riya_kitchen

But it’s not just the sushi fusion that makes Isao so special. If there’s one place where you can order Japanese food worthy of Instagram, this is it.

Photo Via Yipstermatic, Pope_woradech, Floatlikecloudsonwater, Qoogal, Mightypimmy

Don’t forget to order their famous Jackie Roll – probably the most photographed Japanese dish in Bangkok!

Isao

Price: From 300 Baht / approx. USD $9
Address: 5 สุขุมวิท 31 ถนน สุขุมวิท Khwaeng Khlong Toei Nuea, Khet Watthana, กรุงเทพมหานคร 10110, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Nearest BTS Station: 11 min walk from Asok BTS Station
Contact: +66 2 258 0645
Opening hours: Daily from 11am to 2.30pm, 5.30pm to 10pm

Website

8. The thickest Ramen noodle soup in town – Bankara Ramen

If you’re craving the ever popular ramen noodles, then my pick would be Bankara Ramen. This small cosy eatery serves the thickest ramen noodle soup in town.

Photo Via Toyprodpran, www.eatdrink.my
Photo Via Artidz, Underthesunshines

Add with it the lip-smacking roasted pork slices and seaweed on the side, and you are all set.

Photo Via Gam.sali, Noo_ni, Nicha_cha, Ttarnn_tarn

The large portions at Bankara can actually give most street food a run for their money! Want more? Add some pickled ginger and fresh crushed garlic for a richer taste. Time to loosen the belt a little bit! 😛

Photo Via Jeabjeabjane, Legend_seven

Bankara Ramen

Price: From 300 Baht / approx.USD $9
Address: อาคาร The Manor 32/1 Soi Sukhumvit 39, Khwaeng Khlong Tan Nuea, Khet Watthana, กรุงเทพมหานคร 10110, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Nearest BTS Station: 8 min walk from Phrom Phong BTS Station
Contact: +66 2 6620 5162
Opening hours: Daily from 11am to 11pm

Website

9. Looking for authentic Japanese cooking? Hop in at – Yokoi Udon

Don’t let the canteen style décor fool you. The Udon and Tempura here is as good as you’ll be able to find. The steady flow of Japanese patrons during lunch hours is proof of its authentic Japanese cooking.

Photo Via Jgbthai.com, Parkornnn
Photo Via Go__bambi, Annzmee, Jgbthai.com_

The Udon (Japanese thick pasta) and Tempura (batter-fried fish or veggies) deserve special mention.

Photo Via Nattapichai

Our favourite part of Yokoi Udon though? Due to its canteen-styled assembly line, you can see the cooked food and have fun choosing your favourite Japanese dishes!

Photo Via Oatkomkrich, Jgbthai.com, Mintzobrano

Yokoi Udon

Price: From 250 Baht / approx.USD $7.50
Address: G01 อาคาร Boulevard ซอย สุขุมวิท 39 ถนน สุขุมวิท Khwaeng Khlong Tan Nuea, Khet Watthana, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10110, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Nearest BTS Station: 11 min walk from Phrom Phong BTS Station
Contact: +66 2 160 0104
Opening hours: Daily from 11am to 10pm

Website

10. Home-cooked Japanese food at its best in your Japanese friend’s home – Ari Recipe

Walking into Ari Recipe is like stepping into the dining room of a cosy Japanese home, complete with wood flooring and Japanese paintings.

Photo Via Meicastor
Photo Via Jariya_pitukpakawiwut

And the food is perfectly in sync. No artificial flavours and absolutely organic.

Photo Via Vandaful, Nnichyy

So if your Japanese friend has never invited you home, hop in here for that authentic Japanese homely experience.

My pick would be the fish dumplings and the Peony-infused hot tea. In the mood for something stronger? Why not try some of their Yuzu wine!

Photo Via Issarasan

Ari Recipe

Price: From 250 Baht / approx. USD $7.50
Address: 19/2 Ari 4 Fang Nua Alley, Khwaeng Samsen Nai, Khet Phaya Thai, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10400, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Nearest BTS Station: 7 min walk from Ari BTS Station
Contact:  065 385 5565
Opening hours: Sun-Thu, 11am to 11pm; Fri-Sun 11am to 12 midnight

Website

11. Most pocket-friendly Japanese buffet in Bangkok – Kuroda

So you want to indulge in Japanese food, and lots of it. But on a budget. Step out of Ekkamai BTS and walk north for just about 2 minutes. What greets you is a spacious yet cosy Japanese buffet restaurant – Kuroda.

Photo Via Jinakim_pnp, Igiink

What’s ridiculous about this place? Its 22-page menu buffet priced at just 550 Baht! And that with a free flow of salmon! How nice…

Photo Via Gnpm

The all-you-can-eat buffet also has a 500 Baht offer which does not include salmon. With so much on offer at such low prices, it’s hard to beat the pocket-friendly buffet of Kuroda. (Unfortunately, there are no desserts in the buffet line, probably because no one has any space left for it.)

Photo Via Pookiiable
Photo Via Toddy_toddy, Murioan.la, Champ_psl, Foodie.yesiam

Also, if you’re coming to eat in a big group, there are enough tables at Kuroda making it an ideal place for group gatherings/celebrations!

Kuroda

Price: 550 Baht / approx.USD 17 (for the buffet including free-flow salmon); A la carte also available!
Address: 5 Soi Sukhumvit 63, Khwaeng Khlong Tan Nuea, Khet Watthana, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10110, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Nearest BTS Station: 2 min walk from Ekkamai BTS Station
Contact:  +66 2 381 2844
Opening hours: Daily from 11.30am to 11pm

Website

Special Mention #1: Visit the oldest Japanese restaurant in Thailand – Hanaya Restaurant

Technically this restaurant is not exactly in Central Bangkok. But it still makes it to our list for the hallowed claim by many – it is the oldest authentic Japanese restaurant in the whole of Thailand.

Photo Via Kodt

Now that I have justified its inclusion, let’s get to the most important part – food. Hanaya lives up to its reputation of being an authentic Japanese restaurant.

Photo Via Supersexysally, Tigerkookkai, Tongmamoo
Photo Via Farrahboubou

Many of the ingredients are still sourced directly from Japan. The portions are quite filling. And that too, at reasonable prices. This no-frills restaurant remains a hidden gem in the Thai capital.

Photo Via Atty_atta, Sathanisa, Momoeateateat

Hanaya Restaurant

Price: From 400 Baht / approx.USD $12
Address: 6683 ถนน สี่พระยา Bang Rak, Khet Bang Rak, กรุงเทพมหานคร 10500, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Nearest BTS Station: 15 min walk from Hua Lamphong Station; 6 min walk from Si Pha Ya Pier
Contact:  +66 2 233 3080
Opening hours: Daily from 11.30am to 2pm, 5.30pm to 10pm (Closed 2nd & 4th Sundays of the month)

Website

Special Mention #2: The best rooftop Japanese restobar in Thailand – Above Eleven

If you are looking to splurge on Japanese food in Bangkok, I personally love Above Eleven for special occasions.

With a décor inspired by Central Park of New York City, this stunning rooftop bar is perched on the 33rd floor of Fraser Suites. You can soak in the glittering Bangkok skyline through its large glass walls.

Photo Via Iriscarmona, Carmilya
Photo Via Katiabroz, Trinity_87_

The long bar, uninterrupted views, and mood music is ideal for a romantic date, or maybe a late birthday make-up gift for your spouse. Whatever the occasion, the stunning ambiance contributes to an incredible experience to remember.

Photo Via Nelsontutw, Wazzathome

The food here is a unique fusion – Japanese and Peruvian. So are the drinks. Inspired by Peru and Japan (and some from Chile as well), the list is quite unique in the Bangkok culinary scene. Don’t forget to check their website for the dress code!

Photo Via Charlottetse, Kate_supattra11, Aoynavakan, Chefmicke_, Yurikobkk
Photo Via Cherynnlai

Above Eleven

Price: 1000 Baht / approx.USD 30 (with alcohol)
Address: 32nd Floor, Fraser Suites 38/8 ซอย สุขุมวิท แขวง คลองตันเหนือ Khet Watthana, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10110, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Nearest BTS Station: 8 min walk from Nana BTS Station
Contact: +66 2 038 5111
Opening hours: Daily from 6pm to 2am

Website

Special Mention #3: Japanese cuisine at its luxurious best – Zuma

Zuma is my second pick if you’re looking for a luxury Japanese dining experience in Bangkok. This Michelin Guide restaurant is part of the St Regis Bangkok luxury hotel.

Photo Via Fromallison, Ppployyyyy

By now, you must have figured out one thing. It’s not cheap. Well, it’s not supposed to be. Stunning ambiance, super delicious food, and impeccable service – that’s what makes Zuma so special.

Photo Via Nm_gal, Denlaamata
Photo Via Sweetlists, Hungryhongkong.net, Chaiyojoseph
Photo Via Jeabjeabjane, Nampunyisa

If you are confused what to order, go for their set menu at 880 Baht. Drinks will cost you extra.

Zuma

Price: From 880 Baht / approx. USD $26.30 (for the set menu)
Address: Ground Floor, St Regis Bangkok, 159 Ratchadamri Rd, Pathum Wan, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Nearest BTS Station: Right next to Ratchadamri BTS Station
Contact:  +66 2 252 4707
Opening hours: Daily from 11.30am to 3pm; 6pm to 12 midnight

Website

So that’s a list of our favorite affordable authentic Japanese restaurants in central Bangkok – and by central, we mean around the Pratunam area within a few BTS stops!

Have you been to any of these? If you have a favourite which is not listed here, do let us know about it in the comments section below. Otherwise, enjoy!

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PLEASE NOTE: All the above information is correct at the date of publication. If you come across any changes or updates, please let us know and we will update the information accordingly. Thank you!
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