Best japanese restaurants in Baltimore: find options near you
Baltimore is home to a flourishing culinary scene that showcases an array of international cuisines, with a remarkable selection of establishments serving Japanese cuisine leading the way. From sushi bars to ramen houses, these dining spots offer a delightful exploration of traditional and contemporary dishes that reflect the flavors of Japan. The city’s diverse culinary landscape allows residents and visitors alike to indulge in authentic experiences that celebrate the art of Japanese cooking.
As the demand for high-quality Japanese food continues to grow, several noteworthy venues have emerged as frontrunners, each with its own unique twist on classic dishes. Whether you are seeking exquisite sushi rolls, flavorful teriyaki, or comforting bowls of udon, the local dining scene has something to satisfy every craving. Recognized for their exceptional service and commitment to quality, these top Japanese eateries are not to be missed by anyone looking to enjoy a taste of Japan in Baltimore.
1. Kona Grill – Baltimore
Tuesday: 10:00–22:00
Wednesday: 10:00–22:00
Thursday: 11:00–00:00
Friday: 11:00–01:00
Saturday: 10:00–01:00
Sunday: 10:00–23:00
Kona Grill in Baltimore offers a delightful experience for those seeking great sushi and an inviting atmosphere. The variety of dishes, especially their signature rolls, provides patrons with ample choices that cater to different palates.
The service is commendable, with attentive staff members who ensure that customers feel welcome and satisfied. Overall, Kona Grill stands out as a fantastic spot for casual dining, making it an excellent place to gather with friends while enjoying delicious wells executed meals.
2. Hibachi Grill & Buffet
Tuesday: 11:00–21:00
Wednesday: 11:00–21:00
Thursday: 11:00–21:00
Friday: 11:00–21:30
Saturday: 11:00–21:30
Sunday: 11:00–21:00
Hibachi Grill & Buffet offers a delightful experience for those craving a variety of dishes. With a wide selection of **seafood**, **sushi**, and fresh fruits, it’s a great spot for food lovers looking to indulge in multiple flavors. The extensive buffet ensures everyone can find something to enjoy.
Though some aspects could be improved, such as beverage options, the overall environment remains inviting. The array of **cuisine** makes it an appealing choice for gatherings and celebrations, creating a fun atmosphere for enjoying meals with friends and family.
No AC And before you get in, there’s a bad smell outside. That’s a big No for us.
3. Kippo Ramen
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 11:30–14:30, 17:00–20:30
Friday: 11:30–14:30, 17:00–21:00
Saturday: 11:30–21:00
Sunday: 11:30–20:30
Kippo Ramen offers an amazing selection of delicious ramen that truly captivates the senses. Each bowl is crafted with care, ensuring that the rich flavors and fresh ingredients elevate the dining experience. The cozy atmosphere is enhanced by friendly staff who provide attentive service, making every visit enjoyable.
This spot is perfect for casual dining, whether you’re a fan of traditional dishes or looking to try something new. With reasonable prices and a variety of options, Kippo Ramen is a go-to destination for anyone seeking mouthwatering Japanese cuisine in a welcoming setting.
They offer limited alcoholic drink options but their sparking sake is great, if you don’t mind a sweet carbonates drink.
Their prices are affordable and the service is great. This is perfect place to come to for casual and quick dinning.
I’ve been coming to Kippo for a couple years now and will definitely continue to return.
4. Ramen Utsuke
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 11:30–14:30, 17:00–20:30
Friday: 11:30–14:30, 17:00–21:00
Saturday: 11:30–14:30, 17:00–21:00
Sunday: 11:30–20:30
Ramen Utsuke offers a truly remarkable dining experience that combines exquisite flavors with outstanding service. The welcoming atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for both casual outings and special occasions. Each bowl of ramen is not just a meal but a work of art, showcasing the attention to detail that the chefs put into their craft.
Customers consistently rave about the friendly staff, who go above and beyond to ensure a delightful experience. From the rich broth to the perfectly cooked noodles, every component of the dish reflects a dedication to quality. If you’re seeking a place that delivers both exceptional food and a warm atmosphere, Ramen Utsuke is a must-visit!
I’m only in Baltimore on a business trip and visited Ramen Utsuke as it was near the hotel and I wanted to try Ramen. And then I came here almost every second day.
The Ramen (what’s the plural?) are all extremely tasty and always come as a little piece of art. Staff is really friendly, attentive and with a good overview.
I love this place and will come back when I’m in the city.
5. Azumi
Tuesday: 12:00–00:00
Wednesday: 12:00–00:00
Thursday: 12:00–00:00
Friday: 12:00–00:00
Saturday: 12:00–00:00
Sunday: 16:00–22:30
Azumi offers an exceptional dining experience where attention to detail is evident in every aspect. The staff is not only knowledgeable but also genuinely dedicated to ensuring guests feel valued and appreciated. The elegant setting complements the exquisite dishes, making it perfect for special occasions.
The menu showcases a range of delightful flavors, with every dish crafted to perfection. The service stands out, as the staff goes above and beyond to cater to individual preferences and dietary needs, making each guest’s visit memorable and enjoyable. It’s a place that invites you to return for more culinary delights.
I find the decoration inside to be a bit put-on and as an event. Dark and moody.
The place is also aggressively overpriced. The sushi is fresh, but as someone who eats it a lot you are paying way more than needed. 6 pieces of a nigiri tuna taster was $54. At these prices – if you care – you’re better off booking a flight to Japan and eating it there. You’d save a buck.
6. Yama Sushi Bar
Tuesday: 11:00–14:30, 16:30–22:00
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 11:00–14:30, 16:30–22:00
Friday: 11:00–14:30, 16:30–22:30
Saturday: 11:00–14:30, 16:30–22:30
Sunday: 12:00–21:30
Yama Sushi Bar is a delightful destination for sushi enthusiasts, blending exquisite flavors with a cozy atmosphere. The attentive staff ensure a pleasant dining experience, making it easy to explore a wide range of fresh and delicious items on the menu.
The inviting ambiance complements the superb quality of the food, offering something for everyone. With reasonable prices and a thoughtful drink selection, Yama Sushi Bar is a must-visit for those looking to indulge in a truly remarkable sushi experience.
The offered a nice small cucumber salad as a starter, then we ordered two appetizers. The Peppered Tuna was insanely good! Peppery and spicy, a perfect bite. Even the asparagus underneath was great. We also ordered the Shumai, delicious tiny pork dumplings, also quite good.
For dinner, we ordered a few standard rolls and a few specialty rolls. The spicy tuna and spicy salmon were both very good. We ordered the Ocean roll, Supreme Roll, Green Dragon and the Bumblebee. Wow, they were all so good, perhaps the least impressive was the Green Dragon, not bad, just kinda bland. The other three were so good and impressed all 3 of us. We felt “not too full” after dinner so decided to sample a couple of the desserts. We got the fried cheesecake, it was ok, the cheesecake was good, the crust was not as good. We also got strawberry mochi and they were so tasty and the chewy coating was fun. Recommend.
We look forward to coming back to Yama soon!
My complaint to the owners of this restaurant is this: In 2024 to not have refills on soda is ridiculous. Everyone knows that soda is super cheap. Your $1.50 is a good price, but charge $2 and allow for refills.
7. Shoyou Sushi
Tuesday: 12:00–15:00, 17:00–21:30
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 12:00–15:00, 17:00–22:00
Friday: 12:00–15:00, 17:00–22:00
Saturday: 12:00–15:00, 17:00–22:00
Sunday: 15:00–21:00
Shoyou Sushi offers an exceptional dining experience with their outstanding selection of fresh sushi. The attention to detail in presentation and the quality of the ingredients stand out, making each dish a delight. The atmosphere is welcoming, perfect for enjoying a meal with friends or family.
The service at Shoyou Sushi is commendable, with staff that are attentive and quick to respond to needs. Despite busy periods, they manage to maintain a friendly demeanor, ensuring that diners feel well cared for throughout their visit. This restaurant is a true gem for sushi lovers.
The sushi here is so good. It’s some of the best I’ve had since moving to Baltimore. My favorite (so far) is the R (Roll) Lewis. The unagi and soft shell crab are also wonderful.
Service:
The server was attentive, never letting our water run out. Our food came out quickly, and the extra roll we ordered before we left arrived fast and packaged well.
Atmosphere:
We didn’t get to see the whole restaurant, as we sat near the entrance. The chair felt a bit uncomfortable. But other than that, the atmosphere was pleasant and inviting.
8. Minato Sushi Bar
Tuesday: 11:30–21:00
Wednesday: 11:30–21:00
Thursday: 11:30–21:00
Friday: 11:30–21:00
Saturday: 11:30–21:00
Sunday: 11:30–21:00
Minato Sushi Bar offers a delightful sushi experience combined with a relaxed atmosphere. The ambience is striking, featuring stunning decor that enhances the dining experience. It’s a perfect spot for both intimate meals and larger gatherings with friends. Happy hour brings affordable prices that make trying various dishes an enjoyable venture.
The attention to detail in service is commendable, with staff eager to ensure a pleasant visit. Diners can expect quick responses and a warm vibe, making it a cherished spot for sushi lovers. With a menu showcasing tasty options, Minato captures the essence of authentic Japanese cuisine wonderfully.
I loved how the restaurant was decorated. It is huge despite what it looks like from outside. The restaurant is long and narrow *pause* and there are, what seems like, an infinite amount of seats there. The ceilings illuminate different colors, and the walls have a way blue pattern. The whole restaurant is extremely pleasing to the eye. From the decor to the color pallete, everything is gorgeous.
The service was great. Our server Cherry was extremely attentive. At one point, my sister expressed displeasure with her drink, and Cherry was quick to make another right away to my sister’s pleasure. I think the server was new, but was knowledgeable and extremely present. The happy hour menu is huge. There are a ton of options to choose from. We had quite the spread including: Edamame, Spring Roll, Shumai, Curry Chicken Dumpling, and the Rolex Sushi Roll. The food was decent, it is not the best sushi I ever had, but for the value, it is well worth it. Their prices for everything are great for your pockets, even the drinks are extremely cheap, which I find is a lost art in the happy hour game. I should mention, however, the drinks are not strong at all, so this isn’t the place to get wasted when you had a bad day at work lol. Perfect hang out place for friend groups or a calm after work date.
Pair this with the modern decor and quiet setting and you have a very classy after work spot for cocktails and Sushi.
I had spicy Tuna, Boston, and california rolls. The sushi taste was awesome and looked great.
For my meal I had the Teriyaki Chicken which was really good and a good size portion. This was not on the happy hour menu but was def worth a try.
I had a mango Martini and a cosmo for my drinks. Both drinks were strong as an ox even tho I missed my martini glass.
I will be back for lunch to see about their bento box. Or maybe for happy hour again to try the large assortment of dumplings 😉
9. Akira Ramen & Izakaya
Tuesday: 11:30–21:00
Wednesday: 11:30–21:00
Thursday: 11:30–21:00
Friday: 11:30–21:30
Saturday: 11:30–21:30
Sunday: 11:30–21:00
Akira Ramen & Izakaya offers a delightful experience for lovers of Japanese cuisine. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, making it a perfect spot to enjoy delicious dishes. Their staff is attentive and friendly, ensuring a pleasant dining experience from start to finish.
The menu features a variety of options, including flavorful ramen and fresh sushi rolls that are well-prepared and satisfying. Customers often praise the speed of service, allowing you to enjoy your meal without a long wait. Overall, Akira is a great choice for a casual meal out.
My go-to order from Akira would be a Poke Salad, some type of sushi roll(6 pieces for about 4-6 dollars), and a seaweed salad. I like to mix the three together. The Poke Salad doesn’t come with any wasabi, but that might just be because I didn’t ask for it due to social anxiety lmao. Seriously, it’s so hard for me to ask for stuff like that… But I think a lot of people are that way too. Also I’d be afraid it’d cost extra no matter what I asked for? Maybe other people would know.
10. Arigato Hibachi
Tuesday: 11:00–14:30, 15:30–21:30
Wednesday: 11:00–14:30, 15:30–21:30
Thursday: 11:00–14:30, 15:30–21:30
Friday: 11:00–22:00
Saturday: 11:00–22:00
Sunday: 12:00–20:30
Arigato Hibachi offers an exceptional dining experience with a delightful selection of Japanese cuisine. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for casual dining or special occasions. The staff is incredibly friendly and attentive, ensuring that every guest feels welcome while enjoying their meal.
The food quality is consistently impressive, with generous portions that leave diners satisfied. From succulent hibachi to fresh sushi, everything is deliciously prepared. With its great service and tasty options, Arigato Hibachi is definitely a hidden gem worth exploring.
The staff are always welcoming and friendly.
There is plenty of free parking outside of the establishment.
I recommend Arigato!
- 1. Kona Grill - Baltimore
- 2. Hibachi Grill & Buffet
- 3. Kippo Ramen
- 4. Ramen Utsuke
- 5. Azumi
- 6. Yama Sushi Bar
- 7. Shoyou Sushi
- 8. Minato Sushi Bar
- 9. Akira Ramen & Izakaya
- 10. Arigato Hibachi
- What types of dishes can I find at Japanese restaurants in Baltimore?
- Are there any popular Japanese restaurants in Baltimore?
- What is the typical dining experience like at a Japanese restaurant?
- Do Japanese restaurants in Baltimore offer vegetarian or vegan options?
- What are the typical prices for dishes at Japanese restaurants?
- Is it customary to tip at Japanese restaurants?
- Can I get takeout or delivery from Japanese restaurants?
- Are there any Japanese restaurants that offer sushi-making classes?
- What safety measures are in place at Japanese restaurants during health crises?
- Do Japanese restaurants in Baltimore serve alcohol?
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Catalog of services offered by Japanese restaurants in Baltimore
Sushi and Sashimi
One of the most prominent offerings at Japanese restaurants in Baltimore is sushi and sashimi. Sushi typically features vinegared rice accompanied by various ingredients, while sashimi showcases fresh raw fish sliced delicately. Many restaurants pride themselves on using high-quality fish sourced from reputable suppliers, ensuring a fresh and delicious dining experience.
Ramen and Noodle Dishes
Ramen has become immensely popular, with many Japanese restaurants offering a range of broth styles, including tonkotsu (pork bone), shoyu (soy sauce), and miso. In addition to ramen, diners can explore other noodle dishes such as soba and udon, each presenting unique flavors and textures.
Teppanyaki and Hibachi Grilling
For an entertaining dining experience, Japanese restaurants often feature teppanyaki and hibachi grilling. Chefs prepare meals right in front of guests on a flat-top grill, showcasing their culinary skills while serving freshly cooked meats, vegetables, and rice. This interactive experience adds a unique element to dining.
Tempura and Fried Dishes
Tempura is a beloved dish in Japanese cuisine, consisting of seafood and vegetables coated in a light batter and deep-fried to a perfect crispness. Many restaurants also offer a variety of other fried dishes that highlight traditional techniques, providing a delicious crunch alongside fresh ingredients.
Authentic Japanese Desserts
No meal is complete without a sweet finish, and Japanese restaurants in Baltimore often feature authentic desserts. Popular choices include mochi (sweet rice cake filled with various flavors), matcha (green tea) flavored treats, and dorayaki (pancakes filled with red bean paste). These desserts offer a delightful end to the dining experience.
Japanese Beverages
To complement the meal, many Japanese restaurants offer a selection of Japanese beverages. This includes traditional drinks such as sake, a rice wine, and green tea, known for its health benefits. Some establishments may also serve Japanese beers and innovative cocktails using Japanese ingredients.
Seasonal and Regional Specials
Many Japanese restaurants pride themselves on offering seasonal and regional specials. These unique menu items often celebrate the changing seasons and highlight local ingredients, allowing diners to experience a taste of Japan's culinary diversity throughout the year.
Catering and Private Events
Several Japanese restaurants in Baltimore provide catering and private event services. These offerings can include sushi platters, bento boxes, and complete meal packages, catering to different occasions such as birthdays, weddings, and corporate events, ensuring guests enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine in a festive setting.
Frequently asked questions about japanese restaurants in Baltimore
What types of dishes can I find at Japanese restaurants in Baltimore?
Japanese restaurants in Baltimore offer a wide range of dishes, including sushi, sashimi, ramen, tempura, and teriyaki. Sushi options may include classic rolls, sashimi, and unique chef specials. Many establishments also feature Japanese noodles such as udon and soba, as well as various vegetarian and meat-based dishes.
Are there any popular Japanese restaurants in Baltimore?
Yes, there are several popular Japanese restaurants in Baltimore that are well-known for their cuisine. Some of these include Yakitori, specializing in grilled skewers, and RA Sushi, recognized for its lively atmosphere and diverse menu. Other noteworthy places include Dashi for ramen and Ikebana for its sushi offerings, making them favorites among locals.
What is the typical dining experience like at a Japanese restaurant?
The dining experience at a Japanese restaurant typically emphasizes freshness and presentation. Many restaurants offer an opportunity to sit at a sushi bar, where chefs prepare dishes in front of guests. The ambiance is often calming, with traditional Japanese decor. Customers can expect attentive service and a focus on the quality of each dish, promoting a communal and enjoyable atmosphere.
Do Japanese restaurants in Baltimore offer vegetarian or vegan options?
Most Japanese restaurants in Baltimore provide a selection of vegetarian and vegan options. Common offerings include vegetable sushi rolls, agedashi tofu, and various side dishes like seaweed salad and edamame. It’s advisable to check with the restaurant staff for any vegan options or modifications to ensure meal preferences are accommodated.
What are the typical prices for dishes at Japanese restaurants?
Prices at Japanese restaurants can vary widely based on the type of dishes and the restaurant’s location. Sushi rolls may range from $8 to $20, while noodle dishes like ramen typically cost around $10 to $15. High-end establishments might have a higher price point, especially for omakase experiences. It is always a good idea to review the menu and pricing beforehand.
Is it customary to tip at Japanese restaurants?
Yes, it is customary to tip at Japanese restaurants in Baltimore, similar to other dining establishments. A typical tip is around 15-20% of the total bill. However, some restaurants that offer omakase dining may have different expectations, so it’s advised to check the restaurant’s policies regarding gratuity.
Can I get takeout or delivery from Japanese restaurants?
Many Japanese restaurants in Baltimore offer takeout and some provide delivery services through popular food delivery apps. It’s common for sushi and ramen to be available for takeout, allowing customers to enjoy their meals at home. Checking the restaurant’s website or calling ahead can ensure the availability of your desired dishes for takeout or delivery.
Are there any Japanese restaurants that offer sushi-making classes?
Yes, several Japanese restaurants in Baltimore offer sushi-making classes as part of their culinary experience. These classes typically provide hands-on instruction from experienced chefs, teaching participants how to create various sushi rolls and understand the fundamentals of sushi preparation. It's a unique way to immerse yourself in Japanese cuisine while having fun.
What safety measures are in place at Japanese restaurants during health crises?
During health crises, many Japanese restaurants in Baltimore implement enhanced safety measures to protect their customers and staff. These measures often include social distancing protocols, increased sanitation practices, and the use of personal protective equipment by staff. Many restaurants also offer contactless payment options and encourage reservations to limit capacity.
Do Japanese restaurants in Baltimore serve alcohol?
Yes, many Japanese restaurants in Baltimore serve a variety of **alcoholic beverages**, including traditional offerings like sake, shochu, and Japanese beers. Some establishments also have a selection of cocktails that incorporate Japanese ingredients. It’s a good idea to explore the drink menu to complement your meal with the perfect beverage.