A surprising array of Japanese culinary gems is available in Cape Town, a city known for its vibrant food scene. The Mother City has something for every sushi lover, ramen enthusiast, and izakaya adventurer, from fine dining to casual street-food joints. You’ll find personal insights, detailed menus, pricing, and all the necessary information to plan your next Japanese food adventure in this comprehensive guide.
1. FYN Restaurant
Where African Inspiration Meets Japanese Precision
“Walking into FYN feels like stepping into a culinary dream,” I thought as I entered the loft-like space on the fifth floor of a bustling inner-city block. Chef Peter Tempelhoff’s FYN has earned its place among the World’s 100 Best Restaurants for three consecutive years (2021–2023), and it’s easy to see why.
The menu is a kaiseki-style journey that blends African ingredients with Japanese techniques. Think guinea fowl with ponzu, springbok with shiitake, and Saldanha oysters with daikon. Each dish is a masterpiece of flavor and texture, leaving you craving more.
Key Highlights:
- Pescatarian and plant-based menus available for lunch.
- Price: R1,850 per person for the tasting menu (2025).
- Must-Try: The miso-glazed springbok with pickled radish.
Opening Times: Monday–Saturday, 12pm–2pm; 6pm–8:30pm
Contact: 021 286 2733, [email protected]
Location: Church Square, 37 Parliament Street, Cape Town
2. Nobu
Luxury Dining at Its Finest
Nobu at the One&Only Cape Town is the epitome of luxury. The double-volume interiors, backlit bar, and impeccable service make it a top choice for special occasions.
“The omakase menu here is a revelation,” I noted during my visit. The Japanese-Peruvian fusion dishes, like the scallop and smelt egg hand roll and yellowtail sashimi with jalapeño, are unforgettable.
Key Highlights:
- Price: Omakase menu starts at R2,200 per person.
- Vegan and vegetarian options available.
- Must-Try: The black cod with miso.
Opening Times: Monday–Sunday, 6pm–10pm
Contact: 021 431 5888, [email protected]
Location: One&Only Cape Town, Dock Road, V&A Waterfront
3. Kyoto Garden
A Zen Escape in Tamboerskloof
There is no better place for sushi lovers than Kyoto Garden, a Japanese garden tucked away in the heart of Tamboerskloof. This tranquil and dimly lit interior, with its bamboo screens and wooden blinds, creates an atmosphere of relaxation and tranquility.
“The wasabi root grated on a sharkskin grater at your table is a game-changer,” I marveled. The menu features rare ingredients like Mozambican conch and Alaskan king crab, making it a standout.
Key Highlights:
- Price: R450–R800 per person.
- Must-Try: The wagyu beef ramen and grilled squid with lemon squid ink.
Opening Times: Tuesday–Saturday, 5:30pm–11pm
Contact: 021 422 2001, [email protected]
Location: 11 Kloof Nek Road, Gardens
4. Obi Restaurant
Authentic Flavors on Long Street
Co-owned by Chef Hatsushiro Muraoka, Obi Restaurant is a no-frills spot that delivers authentic Japanese cuisine. The Bento Box is a lunchtime favorite, while the kaiseki set menu is perfect for dinner.
“The tempura here is feather-light and perfectly crispy,” I observed. Don’t miss the Chirashizushi, a colorful bowl of sushi rice topped with sashimi and vegetables.
Key Highlights:
- Price: R300–R600 per person.
- Must-Try: The coconut panna cotta with matcha ice cream.
Opening Times: Tuesday–Saturday, 12pm–2pm; 6pm–9:30pm
Contact: 021 418 4040, [email protected]
Location: 14 Long Street, Cape Town
5. Tjing Tjing House
A Four-in-One Japanese Experience
Tjing Tjing House is a multi-level emporium of Japanese culture. From the vibrant Torii street-food joint to the elegant Momiji Restaurant, there’s something for everyone.
“The gyoza here is the best I’ve ever had,” I confessed. The omakase set menu at Momiji is a must-try, featuring the freshest seasonal produce.
Key Highlights:
- Price: R200–R500 per person.
- Must-Try: The mochi truffles and fluffy Japanese cheesecake.
Opening Times: Varies by section (see website).
Contact: 021 422 4374, [email protected]
Location: 165 Longmarket Street, Cape Town
6. Izakaya Matsuri
Authentic Japanese Tapas
Owned by Tokyo-born chef Arata Koga, Izakaya Matsuri offers a taste of Japan in tapas format. The shoyu beef ramen and Eel Dragon Roll are crowd-pleasers.
“The ‘three kinds of ice cream’ dessert is a must,” I insisted. The green tea, deep-fried, and wasabi ice creams are a unique treat.
Key Highlights:
- Price: R250–R600 per person.
- Must-Try: The crispy soft shell crab.
Opening Times: Monday–Saturday, 11:30am–10pm
Contact: 021 421 4520, [email protected]
Location: 6 The Rockwell, 32 Prestwich Street, Green Point
7. Three Wise Monkeys
A Cozy Ramen Bar in Sea Point
This izakaya-style ramen bar is a local favorite. The Dragon Ball Z decor adds a playful touch, while the ramen and bao buns keep patrons coming back.
“The vibe here is unbeatable,” I noted. It’s the perfect spot for a casual meal after a stroll along the Promenade.
Key Highlights:
- Price: R150–R400 per person.
- Must-Try: The spicy miso ramen.
Opening Times: Monday–Sunday, 12pm–10pm
Contact: 021 433 1837, [email protected]
Location: La Rhone Building, 77 Regent Street, Sea Point
8. How’s Your Oni
Onigiri Heaven in Gardens
This hole-in-the-wall spot specializes in onigiri (Japanese rice balls). With 11 varieties to choose from, it’s a must-visit for street-food lovers.
“The tempura udon bowl is comfort food at its best,” I said. The cozy space fills up quickly, so arrive early.
Key Highlights:
- Price: R80–R200 per person.
- Must-Try: The spicy tuna onigiri.
Opening Times: Tuesday–Wednesday, 12pm–4pm; Thursday–Saturday, 12pm–9pm
Contact: 076 734 3132
Location: 7 Scott Street, Gardens
9. Fujiyama Japanese Restaurant
A Hidden Gem on Church Street*
Tucked behind a security gate, Fujiyama is a traditional Japanese restaurant that feels like a well-kept secret. The omakase menu is a culinary journey worth taking.
“The homemade plum wine is a delightful surprise,” I shared. The sukiyaki hotpot is another highlight.
Key Highlights:
- Price: R400–R800 per person.
- Must-Try: The nabe dishes served in a clay pot.
Opening Times: Monday–Saturday, 11am–10pm
Contact: 021 424 2491
Location: 77 Church Street, Cape Town
10. Tomo
Japanese and Asian Fusion*
Located on the corner of Loop and Shortmarket Streets, Tomo offers a diverse menu that blends Japanese and Asian flavors. The Tomo sashimi and tempura udon noodles are standouts.
“The bento boxes are a great way to sample the menu,” I suggested.
Key Highlights:
- Price: R200–R500 per person.
- Must-Try: The pan-fried prawn dumplings.
Opening Times: Monday–Sunday, 12pm–10pm
Contact: 021 422 0635
Location: 160 Longmarket Street, Cape Town
11. Japanese Sushi House
A Homely Hideaway in Century City*
This 30-seater restaurant feels like dining in a Japanese family home. The fish hotpot and authentic sashimi are must-tries.
“The set menu is perfect for first-timers,” I advised.
Key Highlights:
- Price: R300–R600 per person.
- Must-Try: The fish hotpot.
Opening Times: Monday–Sunday, 6pm–10pm
Contact: 021 552 5813, 072 241 4119
Location: 138 Daniell Road, Sanddrift, Century City
12. Andy’s Sushi Bar
Affordable Sushi in Sea Point*
Owned by former Willoughby & Co chef Andy Wang, this casual spot offers inventive sushi at affordable prices.
“The Rainbow Reloaded roll is a flavor explosion,” I raved.
Key Highlights:
- Price: R100–R300 per person.
- Must-Try: The Salmon Fire roll.
Opening Times: Monday–Sunday, 11am–9:30pm
Contact: 076 578 6322
Location: 315 Main Road, Sea Point
13. Minato Sushi
Vibey Sushi Spot in De Waterkant*
This colorful eatery is a favorite among urbanites and tourists alike. The R99 lunch specials are a steal.
“The vegan sushi options are fantastic,” I noted.
Key Highlights:
- Price: R100–R300 per person.
- Must-Try: The poke bowls.
Opening Times: Monday–Saturday, 12pm–9pm
Contact: 021 418 4057
Location: 71 Waterkant Street, Cape Town
14. Ōku
Fine Dining in Franschhoek*
Ōku brings a fine dining twist to Japanese and Asian cuisine. The kaiseki menu with wine pairings is a highlight.
“The udon dishes are sublime,” I said.
Key Highlights:
- Price: R1,200–R2,000 per person.
- Must-Try: The sashimi platter.
Opening Times: Monday–Sunday, 12pm–2:30pm; 6pm–9pm
Contact: 021 023 4695, [email protected]
Location: Heritage Square, 9 Huguenot Road, Franschhoek
15. Hoseki at Delaire Graff
Luxury Japanese Dining in Stellenbosch*
The Hoseki restaurant at Delaire Graff Estate is known as “the jewel” because of its elegant dining experience. As part of the estate’s seasonal menu, ingredients from the greenhouse are used.
“The views here are as stunning as the food,” I remarked.
Key Highlights:
- Price: R1,500–R2,500 per person.
- Must-Try: The seasonal kaiseki menu.
Opening Times: Daily, 12pm–2pm; 6pm–8pm
Contact: 021 885 8160, [email protected]
Location: Delaire Graff Estate, Helshoogte Road, Stellenbosch
FAQs
Q: What is the best Japanese restaurant in Cape Town for fine dining?
A: FYN Restaurant and Hoseki at Delaire Graff are top choices for a luxurious experience.
Q: Where can I find affordable sushi in Cape Town?
A: Andy’s Sushi Bar and Minato Sushi offer delicious sushi at budget-friendly prices.
Q: Are there vegan options at Japanese restaurants in Cape Town?
A: Yes, many restaurants like Nobu and Minato Sushi offer vegan menus.
Disclaimer
WakaAbuja has made every effort to ensure that the information in this post was correct at the time of publication. However, we do not assume any liability caused by errors, such as price, cost, time, and location.
