Best Upscale Japanese Restaurants in Denver | Upscale Japanese Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Japanese Restaurants in Denver | Upscale Japanese Food

• Hapa Sushi — Japanese · rated 5/5: Hapa Sushi pulses with a vibrant, high-energy spirit where sleek modern design meets a playful, urban edge. The kitchen artfully bridges traditional Japanese techniques with bold, tropical influences, delivering a kaleidoscope of flavors through jewel-toned sashimi and inventive specialty rolls. Whether sipping a craft cocktail at the glowing bar or sharing plates in a plush booth, guests are swept into a lively dining experience that feels like a celebration of fusion culture.
• Enso Sushi & Grill — Japanese · rated 5/5: Bathed in a serene, modern glow, Enso Sushi & Grill balances the delicate artistry of the sea with the smoky allure of the open flame. Guests can watch as chefs meticulously slice jewel-toned sashimi at the sleek sushi bar or lean into the savory sizzle of premium meats charred to perfection. This harmonious blend of cold precision and fiery heat creates an inviting space where every plate celebrates the beauty of balance.
• Uchi — Japanese · rated 5/5: This sophisticated sanctuary reimagines the Japanese dining experience, blending sleek, modern aesthetics with a warm, inviting energy that feels like an intimate gathering in a master chef’s home. Guests embark on a sensory journey through artfully plated omakase courses, where the sizzle of A5 wagyu on a hot rock meets the vibrant, citrusy zing of hama chili and the unexpected harmony of tuna paired with creamy goat cheese. Every bite celebrates a delicate balance of tradition and bold innovation, creating a transcendent evening of culinary discovery.
• Honey Bakery — Chinese · rated 5/5: Honey Bakery serves as a vibrant global crossroads where the intoxicating aromas of spicy Doro Wot and savory black garlic ramen mingle within a warm, inviting atmosphere. Guests are transported across continents with every bite, from the golden, flaky crunch of fresh-baked empanadas to the rich, aromatic depths of Qabili Uzbaki and tender braised goat. This eclectic sanctuary offers a soulful dining experience where diverse culinary traditions harmonize beautifully, inviting diners to explore the world’s most comforting flavors in one cozy destination.
• Cherry Thai Sushi — Thai · rated 5/5: Cherry Thai Sushi invites diners into a vibrant space where the zesty fragrance of lemongrass and galangal mingles with the clean, oceanic scent of freshly sliced fish. The kitchen masterfully balances the fiery heat of traditional Thai curries with the cool, artistic precision of hand-rolled sushi, offering a harmonious journey through Southeast Asian and Japanese flavors. Whether tucked into a bowl of silken noodles or savoring a delicate sashimi platter, guests experience a colorful celebration of spice and craft that lingers long after the final bite.
• Sakana — Japanese · rated 5/5: Sakana invites guests into a serene sanctuary where the rhythmic pulse of the city fades behind a veil of minimalist wood and soft, golden light. Masterful chefs transform the ocean’s bounty into edible art, presenting jewel-toned sashimi and delicate small plates that celebrate the purity of seasonal ingredients. Each bite offers a harmonious balance of texture and flavor, paired perfectly with a curated selection of sake for an intimate journey through contemporary Japanese craftsmanship.
• Teriyaki Madness — Japanese · rated 5/5: The air hums with the sizzle of the open grill as succulent meats are tossed in a signature sweet-and-savory glaze, sending plumes of aromatic steam through the vibrant, high-energy space. From the fiery kick of charred spicy chicken to the golden, satisfying crunch of hand-breaded katsu, each bowl offers a mountain of bold textures balanced by fresh vegetables and tender yakisoba noodles. It is a destination where the timeless art of the wok meets a modern craving for hearty, soul-warming comfort, delivering a fast-paced yet deeply flavorful escape.
• Nagoya Hibachi Express — Japanese · rated 5/5: The rhythmic clatter of the flat-top grill sets the tempo at Nagoya Hibachi Express, where plumes of savory steam carry the irresistible scent of toasted sesame and garlic-infused butter. Vibrant vegetables and tender, seared proteins are tossed with precision, creating hearty, heat-kissed bowls that offer a quick yet soulful escape into the bold flavors of Japanese-style grilling.
• Matsuhisa — Japanese · rated 5/5: This sanctuary of refined Japanese fusion invites guests into a world of minimalist elegance, where the air is scented with toasted sesame and the rhythmic precision of master chefs at work. The experience unfolds through an artistic omakase journey or meticulously curated bento boxes, perfectly paired with a botanical Matsutini that mirrors the garden-fresh vibrancy of the cuisine. From the delicate steam of silken udon crowned with golden, crispy tempura to the bold innovation of their signature elite plates, every bite captures a harmonious balance of time-honored technique and modern flair.
• Ototo Den — Japanese · rated 5/5: The air at Ototo Den hums with the rhythmic sizzle of the robata grill, where whole fish and tender tapas are kissed by flame to achieve a perfect, smoky char. This vibrant destination invites guests to linger over jewel-toned sashimi and soul-warming bowls of housemade ramen, all while exploring a sophisticated library of premium sakes and rare Japanese whiskies.
• Ginza Sushi & Grill — Japanese · rated 5/5: Ginza Sushi & Grill transports diners into a vibrant world of Japanese culinary artistry, where the rhythmic pulse of the sushi bar meets the smoky, savory allure of the grill. An endless parade of jewel-toned sashimi and meticulously crafted rolls invites guests to explore a boundless landscape of flavors, from the delicate snap of fresh seaweed to the rich, caramelized char of grilled specialties. This lively destination celebrates the spirit of abundance, creating an immersive dining experience where every plate is a fresh discovery and every meal is a communal feast.
• Kawa Ni — Japanese · rated 5/5: Step into a spirited Izakaya where the warm glow of lanterns and the rhythmic clatter of the kitchen create an atmosphere of effortless, communal energy. Here, the soul-soothing aroma of rich ramen broths mingles with the crisp snap of inventive small plates, inviting guests to linger over chilled sake and artfully crafted cocktails in a space that feels like a hidden urban sanctuary.
• Poke We — Japanese · rated 4/5: Stepping into this bright, sun-drenched space feels like a refreshing coastal breeze, where a kaleidoscope of vibrant ingredients awaits to be transformed into artful, nourishing bowls. Silky cubes of premium fish and crisp, garden-fresh toppings are brought together by zesty house-made sauces, offering a symphony of textures that celebrate the clean, bold flavors of the Pacific. It is a modern sanctuary of freshness where every bite provides a light yet deeply satisfying escape from the bustle of the day.
• Rocky Fin Poké — Japanese · rated 4/5: This sun-drenched sanctuary brings the spirit of the Pacific to life through vibrant bowls brimming with jewel-toned ahi tuna, crisp garden vegetables, and zesty house-made dressings. Guests craft their own culinary adventures in a breezy, modern space where the refreshing crunch of seaweed and the buttery richness of fresh fish create a bright, wholesome escape from the everyday.
• Pokeworks — Japanese · rated 4/5: This vibrant, modern eatery invites guests to build their own edible masterpieces from a colorful array of ocean-fresh seafood and crisp, farm-to-table toppings. Each bowl is a personalized journey of textures and tastes, where silky cubes of marinated fish mingle with zesty sauces and crunchy garnishes to deliver a bright, island-inspired escape in every bite.
• John Holly's Asian Bistro — Chinese · rated 4/5: Soft ambient lighting and polished accents create a sophisticated backdrop where the air carries the enticing aromas of ginger, lemongrass, and toasted sesame. The kitchen masterfully bridges the diverse flavors of the East, presenting a vibrant array of hand-pressed sushi and wok-seared specialties that celebrate both culinary tradition and modern flair. It is a polished destination that invites diners to linger over artfully prepared plates in an atmosphere of effortless, contemporary elegance.
• Katsu Ramen — Japanese · rated 4/5: Steaming bowls of rich, velvety broth take center stage in this vibrant noodle shop, where the savory aroma of simmering umami and the rhythmic clatter of the kitchen create an atmosphere of pure comfort. Golden-fried katsu provides a crisp, textural contrast to tender noodles and slow-cooked stocks, offering a soulful dining experience that celebrates the heart of Japanese comfort food.
• Shoyu Sushi — Japanese · rated 4/5: Soft amber lighting glows against polished wood counters in this intimate sanctuary, where the rhythmic tap of a chef’s knife sets the tempo for an evening of focused culinary artistry. Pristine cuts of buttery fish are draped over seasoned pearls of rice and paired with the deep, savory notes of house-brewed shoyu, creating a delicate balance of salt and sea in every bite. This elegant space invites guests to slow down and savor the precision of traditional sushi-making, where each hand-pressed piece is a testament to freshness and craft.
• Misaki — Japanese · rated 4/5: Stepping into Misaki feels like entering a tranquil sanctuary where minimalist wood accents and soft, ambient lighting set the stage for a masterclass in Japanese precision. Behind the polished counter, chefs artfully slice pristine cuts of fish that glisten like jewels, pairing them with perfectly seasoned rice to create bites that balance delicate textures with deep, umami-rich flavors. It is a refined culinary journey that honors tradition while inviting guests to linger over every meticulously plated detail in an atmosphere of quiet elegance.
• Sushi Katsu — Japanese · rated 4/5: This lively neighborhood gem hums with energy as the rhythmic chop of the sushi chef’s knife meets the golden sizzle of the fryer. Guests are treated to a vibrant contrast of textures, from the buttery melt of ocean-fresh sashimi to the shattering panko-crusted crunch of perfectly fried cutlets. It is a welcoming haven where Japanese precision meets soulful comfort, offering a balanced experience that satisfies both the craving for delicate artistry and hearty, savory warmth.
• Tokyo Premium Bakery — Japanese · rated 4/5: The scent of buttery, cloud-like shokupan and earthy matcha wafts through this serene, light-filled space where Japanese precision meets the art of the boulangerie. Delicate pastries and pillowy milk breads are displayed like edible jewels, offering a refined symphony of textures that elevate the simple pleasure of a morning treat into a moment of pure, quiet indulgence.
• Tokyo Joe's — Japanese · rated 4/5: Tokyo Joe’s pulses with a modern, high-energy vibe, inviting guests into a sleek space where the bright aromas of ginger and toasted sesame set the stage for a fresh, Asian-inspired feast. Crisp spring rolls and delicate, hand-rolled sushi provide a vibrant contrast to steaming bowls of savory chicken and rice soup, creating a colorful mosaic of textures and tastes. Each visit offers a revitalizing experience, blending the crunch of garden-fresh salads with the comforting warmth of perfectly seasoned noodles.
• Little Ollie's Sushi — Japanese · rated 4/5: This vibrant social hub pulses with energy, inviting guests to share a tapestry of bold Asian-inspired flavors ranging from the delicate snap of steamed Vietnamese rolls to the rich, buttery indulgence of lobster dumplings. Between sips of sake, diners savor the smoky heat of XO shishito peppers and the satisfying crunch of salt-and-pepper dry ribs, all served in a chic atmosphere that feels both intimate and celebratory.
• Devil and Angel — Japanese · rated 3/5: Devil and Angel invites guests into a vibrant sanctuary of sweetness where the irresistible aroma of freshly glazed dough meets the playful, chewy allure of the mochi doughnut. Each ring-shaped masterpiece is a canvas of bold color and inventive flavor, from the earthy elegance of ube and matcha to the nostalgic whimsy of milk and cereal, creating a multisensory escape that redefines the classic pastry experience.
• Miyako Ra-men Spot — Japanese · rated 3/5: Miyako Ra-men Spot serves as a warm, inviting sanctuary where the air is perfumed with the savory scent of simmering broths and the enticing sizzle of pan-seared gyoza. Diners can lose themselves in the comforting textures of pillowy pork belly buns and golden, ginger-scented kara age, all while enjoying the lively hum of a kitchen dedicated to the art of Japanese comfort food. From the delicate, silken crunch of age dashi tofu to the playful, savory bite of takoyaki, every dish captures a vibrant sense of tradition and culinary soul.
• Beard Papa's — Japanese · rated 3/5: The sweet, buttery scent of baking choux pastry fills the air at this whimsical bakery, where golden, double-layered shells await their decadent transformation. Each puff is piped to order with a silky, cool custard flecked with real vanilla bean, offering a masterful harmony of a crisp, crackling exterior and a cloud-like center that melts on the tongue.
• Chubby Fish Sushi — Japanese · rated 3/5: This lively destination invites diners into a world of unbridled abundance, where the rhythmic artistry of the sushi bar produces a continuous flow of vibrant, hand-pressed rolls and delicate nigiri. The air is filled with the gentle steam of earthy Japanese green tea, creating a warm backdrop for a feast that encourages exploration and celebrates the fresh, clean flavors of the sea. It is a space where the boundaries of a traditional meal disappear, replaced by an indulgent, communal experience centered on the simple joy of exceptional sushi.
• Junction Food & Drink — American · rated 3/5: This bustling culinary crossroads pulses with energy, drawing guests into a vibrant tapestry of global aromas that range from the fragrant spices of Indian masalas to the comforting steam of authentic ramen. Diners navigate a curated landscape of open kitchens to discover hand-crimped empanadas, wood-fired pides, and zesty Jamaican flavors, all while the central bar serves as a social anchor for craft cocktails and conversation. The space offers a communal feast that celebrates the spirit of discovery, whether you are lingering over a morning espresso or sharing a platter of street tacos in the heart of this high-energy destination.
• I Love Sushi & Poke — Japanese · rated 1/5: A bright, energetic haven where the precision of Japanese sushi meets the sun-drenched, customizable spirit of Hawaiian poke. Glistening cuts of pristine fish are artfully paired with crisp vegetables and zesty sauces, resulting in bowls and rolls that are as visually stunning as they are refreshing. The modern, airy space hums with a casual vitality, making it an ideal destination for a quick, nutrient-rich lunch or a relaxed evening of shared plates.
• HiRa cafe — Japanese · rated 1/5: HiRa cafe is a vibrant morning sanctuary where the air is thick with the enticing aroma of spiced clarified butter and slow-simmered legumes. Guests find comfort in artfully prepared staples like honey-kissed Chechebsa and savory Kuanta Firfir, each plate offering a rich tapestry of traditional Ethiopian flavors and textures. The warm, communal atmosphere invites diners to slow down and savor every bite of velvety Shiro or hearty Kinche, turning a simple breakfast into a soulful celebration of heritage.