Best of Japanese Cuisine in St. Louis

St. Louis, MO – The culinary landscape of St. Louis is a testament to the city’s rich cultural diversity, with Japanese cuisine taking a prominent spot among the gastronomic offerings. From authentic sushi bars to fusion restaurants, St. Louis boasts a variety of Japanese dining experiences that cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Here’s a glimpse into some of the city’s most celebrated Japanese establishments, each known for their unique offerings and exceptional dining experiences.

Shogun Japanese Steakhouse Of South County

Celebrated for its engaging teppanyaki performances and generous portions, offering a memorable dining experience that combines entertainment with culinary excellence. While it’s a bit on the pricey side, the quality and quantity of food justify the experience, leaving guests wishing for more vegetable options to complement their meals.

Ichiban Japanese Sushi Bar

Offers a cozy, family-style dining atmosphere, making it a welcoming spot for those looking to enjoy traditional Japanese dishes and sushi in a more intimate setting.

Kobe Steakhouse of Japan

Faces some challenges with service and booking practices, indicating a tension between customer experience and business demands. Patrons have noted a need for improvement to match the quality of its culinary offerings.

IZAKAYA REN SUSHI & SAKE BAR

Known for its serene dining environment and speedy service, especially for carry-out orders. It stands as the second favorite Japanese restaurant for many in the area.

Sushi Sake

Perceived as a more budget-friendly option, offering a taste of Japan without the high costs associated with finer dining. Despite criticisms comparing it to higher-end locations, it provides an accessible entry point into Japanese cuisine.

ZEN Thai & Japanese Cuisine

Excels in delivering both Thai and Japanese dishes, with a particular emphasis on speedy and quiet service. It’s a go-to place for those who appreciate the quick, attentive dining style characteristic of Asian cultures.

Midtown Sushi & Ramen

Highly regarded for its authentic Japanese offerings and exceptional service, particularly from a server named Kimi, which elevates the dining experience for many patrons.

Sado

Impresses with its high-quality sushi and thoughtfully presented dishes, encapsulating the elegance expected from top-tier Japanese dining. The restaurant’s commitment to an authentic and enjoyable dining experience has garnered high praise from guests.

Drunken Fish – Central West End

Has encountered mixed reviews, with some guests feeling unwelcome due to the restaurant’s policies. This feedback highlights the importance of hospitality in the dining experience.

Sushi Sen

Stands out as a favorite for its authentic approach to sushi, allowing guests to watch their food being prepared. It’s celebrated for the elegance and authenticity of its dishes, setting a high standard for sushi dining in the area.

As St. Louis continues to embrace and celebrate Japanese cuisine, these establishments offer a glimpse into the variety and quality available to diners in the city. Whether you’re in the mood for a lively teppanyaki show, a quiet sushi dinner, or a fusion of Asian flavors, St. Louis has a Japanese restaurant to satisfy your cravings.

Restaurant	Rating	Categories	Address	Highlights
Shogun Japanese Steakhouse Of South County	4.3	Japanese restaurant, Steak house, Sushi restaurant	10550 Baptist Church Rd, St. Louis, MO 63123	Engaging teppanyaki performances, generous portions.
Ichiban Japanese Sushi Bar	4.4	Sushi restaurant, Asian restaurant, Japanese restaurant	12388 Olive Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63141	Cozy, family-style dining atmosphere.
Kobe Steakhouse of Japan	4.3	Japanese restaurant, Japanese steakhouse, Restaurant	645 W Port Plaza Dr, St. Louis, MO 63146	Service and booking practices need improvement.
IZAKAYA REN SUSHI & SAKE BAR	4.5	Sushi restaurant, Asian restaurant, Japanese restaurant	2948 Dougherty Ferry Rd, St. Louis, MO 63122	Serene dining environment, speedy carry-out service.
Sushi Sake	4.3	Japanese restaurant, Asian restaurant, Sushi restaurant	4418 Lemay Ferry Rd, St. Louis, MO 63129	Budget-friendly, accessible entry into Japanese cuisine.
ZEN Thai & Japanese Cuisine	4.6	Japanese restaurant, Asian restaurant, Thai restaurant, Restaurant, Southeast Asian restaurant, Sushi restaurant	403 Watson Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63126	Quick, attentive service, excellent Thai and Japanese dishes.
Midtown Sushi & Ramen	4.5	Authentic Japanese restaurant, Ramen restaurant, Sushi restaurant	3674 Forest Park Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108	Authentic Japanese foods, exceptional service by Kimi.
Sado	4.5	Japanese restaurant	5201 Shaw Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110	High-quality sushi, thoughtfully presented dishes.
Drunken Fish – Central West End	4	Sushi restaurant, Asian fusion restaurant, Bar, Cocktail bar, Fusion restaurant, Japanese restaurant, Lounge, Seafood restaurant	1 Maryland Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63108	Mixed reviews on service and hospitality.
Sushi Sen	4.5	Japanese restaurant, Sushi restaurant	161 Civic Center Dr, Lake St Louis, MO 63367	Authentic sushi, counter seating to watch preparation.