OAD 5 Best Restaurants in Japan: A Fine Dining Journey

Experience Japan’s Finest Culinary Destinations

Japan’s fine dining scene is among the most revered in the world, blending tradition, innovation, and unparalleled craftsmanship.

Each year, Opinionated About Dining (OAD) releases its ranking of the best restaurants, based on reviews from passionate food enthusiasts. The 2025 OAD Japan Top Restaurants list showcases a mix of kaiseki, sushi, tempura, and seasonal Japanese cuisine, highlighting the nation’s rich culinary heritage.

From the delicate flavors of Kanazawa’s kaiseki artistry to the finest Edo-style sushi in Tokyo, here are the top 5 restaurants in Japan according to the latest OAD rankings – and why they deserve a spot on every gourmet traveler’s bucket list.

1. Kataori (Kanazawa) – The Ultimate Kaiseki Experience

Location: Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture
Cuisine: Kaiseki
Chef: Takuya Kataori

Topping the OAD chart, Kataori is a kaiseki paradise that embodies the spirit of Kanazawa’s elegance. Led by Chef Takuya Kataori, the restaurant’s multi-course dining experience is a symphony of delicate flavors, balancing fresh seafood, mountain vegetables, and meticulously aged fish.

2. Sushi Saito (Tokyo) – The Pinnacle of Edomae Sushi

Location: Tokyo
Cuisine: Sushi (Edomae-style)
Chef: Takashi Saito

Consistently ranked among the world’s best sushi restaurants, Sushi Saito is a legend in Tokyo’s dining scene. Chef Takashi Saito is known for his mastery of Edomae sushi, creating a perfect balance of rice, aged fish, and temperature control.

3. Tenzushi Kyomachi (Fukuoka) – The Art of Kyushu Sushi

Location: Fukuoka
Cuisine: Sushi (Kyushu-style)
Chef: Isao Amano

Unlike Tokyo’s Edomae-style sushi, Tenzushi Kyomachi offers a vibrant and innovative approach rooted in Kyushu’s unique ingredients. Chef Shinya Tanaka masterfully balances bold flavors and artistic presentation, creating sushi that is both traditional and modern.

4. Hirasansou (Shiga) – Japan’s Hidden Mountain Retreat

Location: Shiga
Cuisine: Kaiseki
Chef: Takeji Ito

Nestled in the mountains of Shiga, Hirasansou is a seasonal kaiseki sanctuary that takes diners on a journey through Japan’s wild nature. Chef Takeji Ito is a master of wild game and foraged ingredients, creating dishes that connect deeply with the land.

5. Tempura Naruse (Shizuoka) – The Art of Perfect Tempura

Location: Shizuoka
Cuisine: Tempura
Chef: Takeo Shimura

Tempura is often overshadowed by sushi and kaiseki, but Tempura Naruse proves that this delicate frying technique is a true art form. Using Shizuoka’s freshest seafood and mountain vegetables, the chef creates crispy, golden perfection with each bite.

The Future of Fine Dining in Japan

The OAD top 5 restaurants of 2025 reflect a growing appreciation for regional specialties, hyper-seasonal ingredients, and intimate dining experiences. From the kaiseki mastery of Kataori to the sushi artistry of Sushi Saito, these restaurants showcase the pinnacle of Japanese gastronomy.

Planning a Visit? Here’s What You Need to Know:

• Reservations are essential – Some restaurants require booking months (or years) in advance.
• Dine with respect – Japanese fine dining is built on tradition, so understanding proper etiquette enhances the experience.
• Budget accordingly – These are often once-in-a-lifetime experiences, with prices reflecting their exclusivity.

For culinary travelers, experiencing these top-ranked restaurants is an unforgettable journey into Japan’s rich food culture. Whether you’re a sushi lover, a tempura enthusiast, or a kaiseki connoisseur, Japan’s top dining destinations offer something truly special.