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Guide to Downtown Seattle

Unique Japanese food

You are looking for Japanese dishes that break the mold and offer something you cannot find on every corner.

Based on 702 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Nohm sushi bar & kaisendon image 1
Nohm sushi bar & kaisendon image 2
Nohm sushi bar & kaisendon image 3
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Wide seating area shares space with a robotic coffee barista, creating a futuristic atmosphere. The environment stays quiet and calm, ideal for a chill lunch or working with USB charging outlets at tables. Sushi quality stands out as fresh and excellent compared to typical quick sushi spots.

Sushi comes by the pound, letting you mix and match a variety of pieces for a cost-effective selection. The fish is fresh and sashimi-quality, with options like chu toro nigiri priced affordably.

A standout feature is the sushi by weight concept, letting customers pick exactly how much they want. The menu offers unique flavor combinations that bring fresh twists to traditional sushi rolls.

People are saying

"I loved the great variety of sushi options."

"The sushi rolls here have unique flavors and taste so fresh."

"The Japanese food here has tons of variety to choose from."

Good to know

1

The sushi is sold by weight, allowing customers to choose exactly what they want.

2

Prices are affordable, with sushi costing around $19 per pound.

3

Parking is metered on the street, but it can be difficult to find a spot.

02
Ooink Capitol Hill image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small rooftop ramen spot features cramped seating and self-serve ordering with touchscreen pads. Noise from kitchen and loud, repetitive music create a high-energy, chaotic atmosphere. Modest decor adds cozy charm despite tight space.

Ramen here features a rich, bold broth with caramelized pork that adds a touch of sweetness. The vegetarian ramen stands out as unique and flavorful, making it a favorite spot for ramen lovers.

Black garlic ramen offers a super flavorful and unique taste with a broth that has a distinct flavor profile. Fried chicken stands out with complex spices in the breading and a unique numbing sensation from the mala broth.

People are saying

"The spices in this Ramen are so unique, like nothing I've had before."

"I thought the ramen here was the best I ever had."

"The fried chicken's unique spice blend is amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; expect to wait during peak hours.

2

Seating is limited, so arrive early to secure a table.

3

A bowl of ramen costs around $20.

03
ShoMon Kappo Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, intimate setting with 13 seats at an L-shaped sushi bar offers a close view of food preparation. Atmosphere is calm and elegant, blending minimalist Japanese design with a relaxed, upscale vibe that encourages conversation. Guests experience seasonal tasting menus served on handcrafted pottery, creating a personal and refined dining experience.

Omakase at this spot delivers an incredible sushi experience with top-tier quality and exceptional service. It suits special occasions and offers memorable meals at the bar or with small groups.

Dishes feature fresh seafood and local ingredients with a global twist. The menu offers unique sake options and creative takes on traditional Japanese flavors.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is executed beautifully with fresh, fresh ingredients."

"The desserts here ended my meal on a light, surprising note."

"The food here is unique, thoughtful, and super fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required as the restaurant operates by reservation only.

2

The dining experience costs $185 per person, plus a 20% service charge.

3

The restaurant accommodates dietary restrictions, including gluten-free options.

04
Imperial kitchen and bar image 1

Restaurant blends old-school dark wood bar chic with Hong Kong-style neon signs and cabaret-like chandeliers, creating a cozy, vibrant atmosphere. Large screens show sports games while occasional DJs and karaoke add lively energy. Space feels bright and roomy despite some dark walls, accommodating groups comfortably.

Stir fried udon with steak offers a little spicy kick and strong seasoning. Takoyaki and steak bring bold flavors, while deep fried gyoza works well as an appetizer alongside sliders and edamame.

Offers Cantonese-style Chinese food with a twist, like stir-fry served with French fries. Drinks and dishes such as the soft shell crab burger stand out for their unique flavors.

People are saying

"You have to try their creative cocktails, especially the baijiu-based ones."

"The Japanese food, especially the gyoza, really hit the spot."

"The menu's unique mix of Asian and Hawaiian dishes surprised me."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available every day with competitive prices on food and drinks.

2

The last seating is at 9:30 PM sharp, so plan accordingly.

3

Expect a variety of tasty treats during happy hour at lower prices.

05
Sushi By Scratch Restaurants: Seattle image 1

Seating occurs directly at a sushi counter with intimate atmosphere and visible preparation of omakase courses. An initial bar area offers welcome drinks and appetizers before moving to the main dining space. The vibe is exclusive and high-end, suited for those seeking a unique dining experience.

Omakase here blends innovation and tradition with very fresh and flavorful sushi. The meal includes excellent sake pairings poured generously and is served by a skilled team at the sushi bar.

Creative omakase menus showcase unique flavor and texture profiles. The sushi offers a fresh, flavorful experience with high culinary expertise in an intimate setting.

People are saying

"It's an intimate dining experience that's well worth the splurge."

"This Japanese food omakase experience was life-changing and jaw-droppingly delicious."

"The omakase here is a unique experience with creative, fresh flavors."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for dinner, with three different time slots available.

2

The 17-course omakase dinner costs $900 per couple, including add-ons and tip.

3

Arriving less than 30 minutes before your booking is recommended for entry.

06
Nanaโ€™s Green Tea image 1
Japanese sweets restaurant

Spacious interior with tall ceilings and many windows creates an airy, modern vibe. Bright lighting contrasts with a cozy atmosphere that suits relaxing or studying. Seating spreads indoors and on a covered patio, with WiFi and outlets supporting longer stays.

Chicken katsu curry stands out as a heaven on a plate dish here. The menu also features matcha mochi parfaits and drinks like matcha latte and hojicha float with mochi, all balancing flavors like red bean, whipped cream, and vanilla ice cream.

Asian teas and unique drinks stand out here. Desserts like the black sesame warabimochi parfait offer a distinct style with black sesame ice cream.

People are saying

"The matcha desserts here are rich and not overly sweet."

"Their matcha drinks and soft serve are amazing."

"The parfaits here have a unique, rich flavor with lots of ingredients."

Good to know

1

Nanaโ€™s Green Tea does not accept cash payments.

2

Nanaโ€™s Green Tea gets quite busy, so I recommend ordering ahead.

3

There is a pickup window outside that allows quick collection without waiting in line.

07
Onibaba by Tsukushinbo image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, intimate space with cozy vibes and anime music playing softly. Clean and simple design creates a homey atmosphere that feels welcoming despite limited seating. Unmarked entrance adds a sense of mystery and charm to the experience.

Ramen features an insanely good dashi broth that stands out. Onigiri options like karaage and tuna mayo offer solid variety, with the tuna mayo preferred. Curry udon noodles and katsu curry bring rich, flavorful experiences beyond typical sushi and bento dishes.

Grilled and charred cheese with mentaiko creates a bold and unique flavor. Yakionigiri offers a distinctive way to enjoy onigiri with thoughtful preparation.

People are saying

"The Japanese food, especially the onigiri, is delicious and generously portioned."

"The onigiri here are a delightful celebration of flavor and texture."

"The onigiri here are unique, with flavorful fillings and tender rice."

Good to know

1

They donโ€™t take reservations, so expect to wait during busy hours.

2

The wait during weekends can exceed 30 minutes due to limited seating.

3

There are few tables, so arrive early to secure a spot.

08
Uwajimaya Seattle image 1
Asian grocery store

Asian grocery store combines spacious layout with cozy, well-designed interior that feels like a trip to Asia. Food court and bookstore offer diverse cultural experiences alongside shopping. Atmosphere stays clean, friendly, and organized, making items easy to find even when busy.

Sashimi quality sushi stands out with a wide selection of fresh fish, including great mackerel sashimi. Ready-to-eat meals like chirashi bowls, pork buns, and mochi doughnuts complement the fresh sushi and Japanese snacks like matcha, instant ramen, and unique sweets.

Unique snacks, authentic Asian foods, and sushi-grade fish fill the shelves. Exotic spices, hard-to-find products, and unique fruit juices add to the selection.

People are saying

"I loved the food court's great options and prepared meals."

"I found a huge assortment of Japanese foods and fresh seafood here."

"I found so many unique Asian snacks and ingredients here."

Good to know

1

Parking is validated with a minimum purchase of $20 at the store.

2

There are two hours of free parking if you spend over $30.

3

The market stops selling hot deli food after 6pm, so get your hot food early.

09
BeanFish image 1
Japanese confectionery shop

Food court inside an Asian grocery store offers made-to-order taiyaki with inventive fillings including savory options like bacon. Atmosphere reflects court food influence with a beautiful seating area. Taiyaki preparation happens in front of customers, emphasizing freshness and warmth.

Taiyaki here comes with a crispy exterior and warm, sweet filling, made fresh to order. Varieties include unique options like the Big Kahuna with Spam and pineapple pepper jack cheese, and the K-Pop with kimchi and Korean kalbi beef.

Offers a very unique take on traditional food with fun and unique flavors.

People are saying

"The taiyaki food is made to order, piping hot and fresh."

"The mmmBacon taiyaki with egg and cheese was so good."

"The Japanese food, especially the taiyaki, is surprisingly delicious."

Good to know

1

BeanFish is located inside the Uwajimaya grocery store food court.

2

Taiyaki costs around $7 each, which is considered expensive.

3

The fish cakes are made to order, so expect a longer wait time.

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