Best Upscale Japanese Restaurants in Honolulu | Upscale Japanese Food

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

• Tsunami's Waikiki — Japanese · rated 5/5: Bathed in an electric neon glow, this high-energy Waikiki haunt pulses with a rhythmic energy that captures the spirited essence of island nightlife. Guests gather around vibrant tropical cocktails and savory shared plates as the music sets a lively tempo, creating a dynamic space where the party flows as freely as the drinks.
• Momosan Waikiki — Japanese · rated 5/5: Breezy and vibrant, this open-air sanctuary captures the spirited energy of Waikiki with its colorful murals and communal tables that invite lively conversation under the Hawaiian sun. The air hums with the sizzle of charcoal-grilled yakitori and the savory steam rising from deep bowls of rich, complex ramen broth topped with perfectly tender chashu. It is a place where the artistry of an Iron Chef meets the laid-back island lifestyle, offering a soulful retreat for those seeking bold Japanese flavors and a chilled glass of sake just steps from the sand.
• Chef's Ramen — Japanese · rated 4/5: Steaming bowls of rich, velvety broth take center stage at this intimate noodle shop, where the rhythmic sound of splashing noodles and the savory aroma of toasted sesame fill the air. Each bowl is a masterclass in balance, layering hand-pulled noodles with tender, flame-seared proteins and vibrant garnishes to create a comforting symphony of umami. The minimalist space invites diners to linger over the warmth of a perfectly seasoned soup, offering a soulful escape into the heart of traditional ramen artistry.
• Morimoto Asia Waikiki — Japanese · rated 4/5: Perched above the sun-drenched shores of Waikiki, this sophisticated retreat blends sleek, modern design with the rhythmic energy of an open kitchen where glistening Peking ducks and artful sushi take center stage. The air hums with a vibrant island spirit as Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto’s masterful Pan-Asian creations—from delicate dim sum to sizzling aromatics—transform fresh ingredients into a breathtaking culinary performance overlooking the Pacific.
• Musubi Cafe Iyasume — Japanese · rated 4/5: This vibrant, unpretentious gem captures the heart of Hawaiian comfort, drawing guests in with the savory aroma of sizzling Spam and sweet teriyaki glaze. Hand-pressed bundles of warm, seasoned rice are artfully layered with everything from creamy avocado and crisp bacon to tangy plum, all wrapped in a delicate ribbon of nori for the ultimate handheld feast. It is a place where simple ingredients are transformed into nostalgic, umami-rich treasures that offer a true taste of island life in every bite.
• Fujiya Hawai'i — Japanese · rated 4/5: This beloved local gem invites guests into a world of pillowy textures and vibrant colors, where the art of traditional Japanese-Hawaiian confectionery is celebrated in every hand-shaped morsel. Delicate layers of silken habutae and chewy chi chi dango give way to surprising centers of crunchy peanut butter, tropical haupia, or bright bursts of fresh strawberry and lychee. It is a nostalgic destination where the simple joy of a perfectly crafted mochi box brings together time-honored techniques and the sweet, sun-drenched flavors of the islands.
• JINROKU PACIFIC — Japanese · rated 4/5: The rhythmic sizzle of the teppan grill sets a lively tempo at this sophisticated Waikiki destination, where the art of Osaka-style soul food is elevated to a refined culinary performance. Golden-brown okonomiyaki and premium seared meats arrive draped in savory sauces and dancing bonito flakes, filling the sleek, modern space with an irresistible aroma that bridges the gap between traditional Japanese craft and contemporary island elegance.
• Sushiya — Japanese · rated 3/5: Step into a minimalist sanctuary where the art of the omakase takes center stage amidst warm cedar accents and soft, ambient lighting. Here, the ocean’s finest treasures are transformed into edible art, from translucent slices of sashimi to hand-pressed nigiri that celebrates the pure, unadulterated flavors of the sea.
• Camado Ramen Tavern — Japanese · rated 3/5: This vibrant urban retreat captures the soul of a Japanese izakaya, where golden light spills over rustic wood accents and the comforting scent of umami-rich broth beckons from the open kitchen. Silky noodles are swirled into deep, complex soups and paired with crispy small plates, creating a convivial atmosphere where every slurp is a celebration of traditional craftsmanship and spirited tavern culture.
• Tanaka Saimin — Japanese: Steaming bowls of saimin and the savory sizzle of kimchee fried rice define this bustling local gem, where the air is thick with the nostalgic aromas of island comfort food. Guests tuck into hearty mixed plates and towering Korean mocos, while vibrant bites of Okinawan sweet potato tempura add a crispy, colorful crunch to a meal that feels like a warm embrace of Hawaiian tradition.
• Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House — Japanese: Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House invites diners into a sleek, high-energy sanctuary where the centerpiece is the art of the simmer and the indulgence of exquisitely marbled beef. Guests embark on a decadent journey of unlimited indulgence, dipping tender ribbons of Wagyu into aromatic, bubbling broths while savoring plates of buttery tartare and chilled seafood. The atmosphere hums with sophisticated energy as vibrant Blueberry Mules and seasonal sangrias provide a refreshing brightness to the rich, melt-in-your-mouth flavors of this interactive feast.
• Sugoi — Japanese: Bathed in a warm, cinematic glow, Sugoi captures the electric spirit of contemporary Japanese dining through its bustling open kitchen and artfully composed plates. Guests embark on a sensory journey where the crisp snap of fresh tempura and the melt-in-your-mouth richness of premium seafood create a symphony of umami and texture. It is a destination where culinary precision meets a lively, soulful atmosphere, turning every shared plate into a vibrant celebration of flavor.
• Waiola Shave Ice - Waiola Street — Japanese: Stepping up to this humble, sun-faded storefront feels like a nostalgic journey into the heart of Honolulu, where the rhythmic hum of the ice shaver promises the ultimate relief from the tropical heat. Each bowl is a masterpiece of delicate texture, particularly the signature Azuki Mochi Bowl which crowns a cloud of impossibly fine, powdery snow with earthy sweet beans and pillowy, handcrafted mochi.
• TONKATSU TAMAFUJI KAPAHULU — Japanese: The air is thick with the savory scent of toasted sesame and the rhythmic sizzle of copper pots, drawing diners into a warm, wood-accented space where traditional Japanese hospitality takes center stage. Golden-brown cutlets of premium pork are fried to a precise, airy crunch and served alongside bowls of steaming rice and crisp ribbons of cabbage, inviting guests to participate in the ritual of grinding their own seeds into a rich, aromatic sauce. Every bite offers a masterclass in texture and technique, transforming a humble meal into a soul-warming celebration of craftsmanship and culinary heritage.
• Utage Restaurant & Lounge — Japanese: Stepping into this lively gathering place feels like an invitation to a soulful Okinawan feast, where the air is thick with the savory aroma of simmering broths and vibrant, sizzling stir-fries. The kitchen honors deep-rooted island traditions through comforting bowls of tender soki soba and crisp furikake-crusted ahi, offering a warm sanctuary where every bite celebrates the rustic, nourishing spirit of the Ryukyu Islands.
• Artizen by MW — Japanese: This vibrant eatery reimagines island comfort food through a lens of modern artistry, where the air is filled with the savory perfume of garlic-scented shrimp and slow-simmered oxtail soup. Every dish celebrates a symphony of textures, from the delicate, golden crunch of mochi-crusted fillets to the playful snap of bubu arare-coated chicken, creating a dining experience that feels both sophisticated and deeply rooted in local tradition.
• Up Roll Café Honolulu — Japanese: Sun-drenched and spirited, this Honolulu destination transforms the day's freshest catch into a vibrant mosaic of color and flavor. Silky cubes of ahi and buttery salmon are tossed in zesty yuzu or rich garlic shoyu, creating a customizable dining experience where the bright, clean tastes of the Pacific shine in every bowl.
• Domo Cafe — Japanese: Domo Cafe invites guests into a vibrant space where the art of the sushi platter is elevated to a communal feast, showcasing a kaleidoscope of colors from the delicate Sunrise Nigiri to the smoky, flame-kissed notes of the Aburi Lover’s selection. Each meticulously arranged board brings together the ocean’s finest treasures, offering a symphony of textures that range from melt-in-your-mouth sashimi to the bold, zesty kick of garlic-infused specialties.
• Obento Rinka — Japanese: Step into a tranquil sanctuary where the daily special bento arrives as a curated masterpiece of color, texture, and seasonal flair. Each compartment reveals a new discovery, from delicate simmered vegetables to savory proteins, all harmonizing to create a balanced midday ritual that feels both nourishing and artful.
• Hana Tea — Japanese: Hana Tea serves as a serene, sun-drenched escape where the delicate aroma of premium loose-leaf brews and floral infusions creates an immediate sense of calm. Each drink is a visual masterpiece, from the vibrant swirls of hand-whisked matcha to the jewel-toned layers of fresh fruit teas accented by perfectly chewy, honey-kissed pearls. This modern tea house invites guests to linger over artisanal sips that balance traditional techniques with playful, contemporary flavors in a space that feels both sophisticated and welcoming.
• TsuruTonTan — Japanese: Stepping into this sleek, modern brasserie, guests are greeted by the rhythmic artistry of chefs hand-pulling thick, silken udon noodles destined for signature oversized ceramic bowls. Wisps of steam carry the deep aroma of savory dashi and rich, velvety curries through a sophisticated space where traditional Japanese craftsmanship meets a vibrant, contemporary energy. Each dish offers a masterclass in texture and depth, transforming the humble noodle into a theatrical and deeply comforting culinary event.
• Junbi — Japanese: This bright, minimalist sanctuary invites guests to witness the mindful ritual of tea-making, where the rhythmic whisking of bamboo brushes transforms vibrant, stone-ground matcha into velvety lattes and refreshing infusions. The experience is grounded by a selection of hand-pressed onigiri, offering a clean and energizing escape that balances ancient Japanese traditions with a sleek, modern pulse.
• Gyotaku — Japanese: Stepping into Gyotaku feels like entering a serene gallery dedicated to the sea, where minimalist aesthetics and soft lighting highlight the vibrant artistry of the sushi counter. The kitchen honors the ancient Japanese art of its namesake by treating every slice of pristine sashimi and hand-pressed nigiri as a masterpiece of texture and flavor, celebrating the ocean's bounty with meticulous precision. It is a space where culinary craft and tranquil atmosphere converge, offering a sophisticated retreat for those seeking the purest expressions of Japanese tradition.
• Uncle Sharkii Poke Bar — Japanese: Brimming with the sun-drenched energy of the islands, this vibrant poke destination invites guests to craft their own tropical escapes through bowls piled high with jewel-toned ahi tuna and crisp, garden-fresh produce. Silky cubes of premium seafood mingle with zesty sauces and crunchy textures, creating a refreshing symphony of flavors that pair perfectly with a chilled, creamy boba milk tea. It is a breezy, modern retreat where the spirit of Aloha is served in every bite, offering a quick yet soul-satisfying journey to the shores of Hawaii.
• Kozo Sushi — Japanese: This vibrant sushi destination brings the spirit of the islands to life through beautifully arranged platters that celebrate the bounty of the sea with a distinct Hawaiian heart. Guests gather over colorful arrays of hand-pressed nigiri and delicate maki, where signature sets like the Aloha and Kama‘aina plates transform a simple meal into a shared communal feast. The experience is one of effortless warmth and coastal freshness, capturing a sense of island hospitality in every meticulously crafted bite.
• YA!!SUSHI — Japanese: This vibrant sushi destination pulses with a playful energy, where sleek modern design and pops of color set the stage for a spirited exploration of Japanese flavors. Masterful chefs transform the freshest ocean catches into edible art, crafting everything from delicate, melt-in-your-mouth sashimi to inventive specialty rolls that surprise the palate with bold textures and bright, zesty finishes. It is a lively haven where the precision of traditional technique meets a contemporary beat, inviting guests to savor every bite in an atmosphere that feels both electric and welcoming.
• Izakaya 855-ALOHA — Japanese: Neon-lit energy meets the sun-drenched soul of the Pacific at this vibrant fusion escape, where the spirited atmosphere of a Tokyo pub is reimagined with a tropical, laid-back heartbeat. Smoky, charcoal-grilled skewers and bright, citrus-kissed crudo arrive at communal tables alongside playful cocktails served in exotic glassware, creating a transportive experience that feels like a midnight feast on a hidden beach. It is a place of rhythmic clinking glasses and shared laughter, offering a bold, sensory journey where island warmth and urban edge collide.
• Zigu — Japanese: Tucked away in a beautifully restored historic building, Zigu invites diners into a serene, wood-accented sanctuary where the rustic charm of old Hawaii meets the refined elegance of a traditional Japanese izakaya. The kitchen celebrates the island's bounty, transforming locally sourced ingredients into vibrant plates like emerald-hued kale udon and delicate sashimi that bridge the gap between artisanal craftsmanship and tropical freshness. Whether sipping sake in the breezy courtyard or watching chefs at the intimate counter, guests experience a soulful harmony of flavors that feels both deeply rooted and refreshingly modern.
• Sakura Terrace — Japanese: Sunlight filters through delicate cherry blossom motifs onto an airy terrace where the gentle hum of the city fades into a serene, garden-inspired escape. Artfully plated dishes celebrate the seasons, offering a symphony of fresh sashimi and vibrant small plates that mirror the elegance of the surroundings. This refined sanctuary invites guests to linger over crisp sake and beautifully crafted rolls, savoring a tranquil dining experience that feels like a breath of fresh air.
• Izakaya Harumi — Japanese: Soft golden light spills from paper lanterns across this lively sanctuary, where the air is thick with the enticing aroma of binchotan charcoal and the convivial hum of a neighborhood gathering. The kitchen turns out a vibrant tapestry of small plates, ranging from charred, umami-rich skewers to delicate crudo, creating a spirited atmosphere where the sake flows as freely as the conversation.