Portland’s dining scene has a global reputation, but few corners of its culinary landscape inspire as much devotion as its Japanese restaurants. From intimate sushi counters helmed by obsessive itamae to bustling izakaya serving soul-warming ramen, the city offers an extraordinary range of experiences. This isn’t just about raw fish; it is about craftsmanship, seasonality, and a deep respect for tradition that permeates every bowl of rice and slice of sashimi.
The Rose City benefits from a unique confluence of factors: access to pristine Pacific Northwest seafood, a population that values authenticity, and chefs who have trained for decades in Japan. Whether you are a purist looking for an omakase that rivals Tokyo or a casual diner searching for the perfect bowl of katsu curry, Portland delivers. The challenge is not finding good Japanese food; it is deciding which of the many exceptional spots to try next.
This guide focuses on the best of the best. We have considered not only the quality of the fish and the precision of the knife work but also the atmosphere, service, and overall value. These are the places that consistently earn the loyalty of Portland locals and the respect of visiting food critics.
You will find a mix of high-end destinations suited for special occasions and neighborhood gems perfect for a Tuesday night. Some focus narrowly on Edomae-style nigiri, while others celebrate the broader spectrum of washoku, including noodles, grilled skewers, and hot pots. Regardless of the price point, every entry on this list represents a commitment to excellence.
Navigating this list will help you find the right room for your mood and budget. From the west side’s dense concentration of sushi bars to the east side’s more experimental and casual interpretations, the city is a patchwork of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own culinary personality.
Below, we have curated a selection that represents the pinnacle of Japanese cooking in Portland right now.
Murata Restaurant
| Address | 200 SW Market St, Portland, OR 97201 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM, 5:00 – 8:30 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM, 5:00 – 8:30 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM, 5:00 – 8:30 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM, 5:00 – 8:30 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM, 5:00 – 8:30 PM Saturday: 5:00 – 8:30 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (503) 227-0080 |
I felt like I was in Japan, especially with the very kind staff and beautiful tatami rooms. The set menu is pricey but worth it, the sashimi was good quality and the tonkatsu was large. The mackerel was very good and if i come back I will order the ume ochazuke again for sure.
We discovered this awesome sushi place while visiting Portland. Absolutely fantastic food. We sat at the sushi bar and the chefs seemed very legit. Rice was perfect, fish was fresh and with generous proportions.
Great food, highly recommend the crab congee( forgot the menu name)
The sashimi was fresh and the yuzu tofu was flavored well!
Staffs were friendly and atmosphere was great!
What a beautiful "Ichigo Ichie" moment! Pre-concert dining at the sushi bar, the decor is understated Japanese, service from the greeter, to the water server, to the waiting staff, to the Obaasan busying herself hoping to lend a hand on those learning how to use 🥢 I had a delightful miso soup / edamame to start, followed by sumptuously fresh sashimi sampler and ama ebi finished off with mochi and a slice of complimentary yubari. Ridiculously good value too...this will be a core memory I keep returning too as the menu is extensive enough for me to spend hours upon hours of my future here.
I came here expecting decent food and nothing fancy. This is what I got. Has all your typical Caribbean fare.
Compared to other things around the area, it was decent value.
Would just note that service is slow.
Hachi
| Address | 580 SW 12th Ave, Portland, OR 97205 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 11:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 11:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM Sunday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (503) 265-8085 |
Very popular Izakaya style Japanese restaurant. It's always crowded at dinner time while the vibe is comfortable and cool.
Lots of different crowds here. There were family and friend six people squeezing into a four person table, there was a loner enjoying his cold beer, there were a couple on a date trying some new food. Meanwhile somehow in this busy store they all make sense and feel harmony.
We were sitting at the bar, our fav position coz you have a great view of all the dishes going out from here. The fresh glistening sashimi on ice, the yellowtail collar radiating delicious aroma, the big basket of fried chicken, the traditional hot sake in a wood container. Everything looks so delicious that you just pointed at it and told the waiter, 'I want that'.
After the sashimi, the fish collar, the A5 steak screw, the sukiyaki and sake (BTW they have a great selection of sake), it's time to summarize. Yellowtail fish collar is a must have. The meat is so subtle, moist and tender. Sukiyaki is in large portions for two people. The delicious broth is so heartwarming.
Izakaya and sushi place with a popping vibe. It's always busy when I visit for dinner, even on a random weekday.
They have great quality fish and also the best prices in town (and in downtown of all places)!!!
The best local secret is you can park for free after 7:00 p.m. all over downtown and come here to get sales tax-free, great quality dinner that's already very affordable.
Service is prompt, staff is friendly, and they generally have lively anime music playing in the background, adding to the authenticity.
Fast service, 30 seconds after I ordered my drink, it came out! Food is really good, we got a lot of yellowtail lol and the yellowtail tasted very fresh and delicious. The rolls and hand rolls do have a lot of rice though, so you do get full quickly. The yakitori grilled scallops were delicious, but we also got the chicken skin one which was pretty fatty lol. Anyway, great spot!
The amount of times I have recommended this place to others. If you need a new spot to try, give this a go. You will not be disappointed. Affordable, traditional, quick and efficient service and an incredible menu that caters to any palette. Recommend the fish collars when they have them and the citrus YTJ roll. Cannot go wrong. Cheers to more visits to come!
Food: 10/10
Service: 10 /10
Atmo: 10 /10
Overall: perfect. The only complaint is finding parking, which is true for any spot DT.
I loved the traditional Japanese greeting upon entering & exit. It felt so welcoming.
Staff were polite and were always available when we needed them. The kitchen sent dishes out fast and fresh. Everything we had was excellent.
Highly recommend for an authentic izakaya experience.
Akizawa Japanese Bistro
| Address | 507 SW Broadway, Portland, OR 97205 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 5:00 – 8:30 PM Wednesday: 5:00 – 8:30 PM Thursday: 5:00 – 8:30 PM Friday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (971) 469-9753 |
Simply amazing dishes. Every single dish was delicious. Entree, nigiri, and dessert, all bites are worth it. For me, sushi rice and the freshness is the important for nigiri and it was perfect. Deep fried food was all great - tako, katsu, tempura.
Service was accommodating and personalized. I will be back again.
Extraordinary choice for a premium sake and Japanese Izakaya cuisine.
When you step in the restaurant, the decorations tell you this is a sake house instead of regular ramen or teriyaki place. Almost twenty different sake bottles on the wall each with detailed description of name, origin and flavors. Very impressive choices of sakes. My choice of sake was served in wine glass, light and chill, great match for any seafood.
The dish is Izakaya style. Small plates of appetizers of marinated, pickled, steamed or grilled dishes which all great for sake. The sashimi dishes are very fresh. The cod and duck breasts were grilled perfectly. The steamed egg was so tender it melted on your tongue. Everything was excellent.
If you're looking for a place to taste excellent sake with delicious high quality side dishes, this is your to go place.
Scored a last-minute 6 PM reservation and had a great time. The place is small and cozy, giving off those perfect Japanese neighborhood bar vibes.
Highlights were definitely the Toro/Uni hand roll and the Tako Karaage. Super fresh, crispy, and flavorful. A couple of dishes like the Sunomono and the Shime Saba were a bit of a letdown, but overall the food was solid.
The service was attentive without being pushy. Great spot for a relaxed, high-quality dinner. Make sure to call ahead as it fills up fast!
Came here with friends for dinner and had a great time. Highly recommend the chicken karaage, super crispy outside, and juicy&tender inside! The omakase sashimi was very fresh, and the texture was amazing. They also have a nice selection of Japanese style beers, I tried matcha IPA which was surprisingly special and really good:::)))))) Loved the vibe and the food, definitely will come back again!
This spot is one of those rare restaurants where the quality is the same quality of eating in Japan. Everything was fresh and phenomenal. The owner was so kind and very helpful. I could not recommend more.
The Takahashi Restaurant
| Address | 10324 SE Holgate Blvd, Portland, OR 97266 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (503) 760-8135 |
Recommend the nigiri’s. They were dressed well without having overpowering. Flavorful yet simple! The rolls were meh. The Hokkaido ramen was delicious . Clean savory broth and not heavy .
Bring a sweater bc the AC is strong. Parking is limited
Sushi is incredible and super fresh. Friend got the steak teriyaki. Perfectly medium rare steak slices.
This is a restaurant my host family took me to during my homestay. I’m Japanese, but the sushi was just as delicious as the sushi you find in Japan. I especially recommend the salmon and yellowtail—they were excellent. I also tried a California roll for the first time, and it was tasty as well.
For drinks, I recommend Ramune. It’s a Japanese soda and has a sweet, refreshing taste.
Really fun place and SO many options! You can do full meals, choose a variety a la carte, or a combination of the two. I opted for one of the plates and it was delicious, but a LOT of food. I definitely had leftovers!
We were a big group of 10+ and they have spaces large enough to accommodate a group of that size.
Small little place with big size sushi and good value. Prices do add up for meal.
Parking is horrible.
AFURI IZAKAYA SE PORTLAND
| Address | 923 SE 7th Ave, Portland, OR 97214 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (971) 386-2945 |
My friends and I recently celebrated our friends birthday here. We had such a pleasant experience at our table.
We were given such great recommendations from our server, Sawyer. He was so easy to talk to and made quite an impact on all of us with his amazing customer service and attitude.
The options on the menu were plentiful. The ramen I got had an amazing broth flavor and the chicken was tasty.
I also got the whiskey cocktail with vanilla bitters and it was so great to sip on.
🍜Great vibe with the super high ceiling & visible mechanicals. Ramen (we did shoyu) wasn't as great as we'd heard/hoped but everything else was. Especially liked the big bowl edamame, tuna roll & wagyu skewer. 😋 We had a resy but it didn't seem like we needed it for a Tuesday night. Never realized this is basically across the street from the post office - now imma plan for that whenever I need to stop there & will try some different ramens❣️
My wife and I were on a short weekend trip in Portland & we decided to give Afuri a try. The yuzu shio ramen was exactly what we needed after a long day and drive from visiting the coast - the broth was light, yet hearty and fulfilling.
The highlight of our night besides the food was definitely the hospitable staff, from the host seating us to our friendly and attentive waitress, Charlotte. Not only did she recommend the wagyu izakaya (amazing with the fresh Wasabi garnish), but she was so kind to share some local things to do in Portland. We ended up trying the coffee shop and matcha cafe she told us about and were both spot on!
Afuri & their welcoming staff made our short trip in Portland that much more memorable.
10/10.
This ramen is a unique take on traditional styles. The combination of frisee lettuce with a yuzu shoyu broth and thin ramen noodles delivers a refreshing flavor and a distinct yuzu aroma. The ramen egg was particularly delicious. I highly recommend this dish.
The cheesecake was great! Everything was really good, I'll definitely be back more often 😊
Having travelled in Japan and eaten on our own at izakaya there, we were intent on visiting Afuri but wondered about whether the quality and inventiveness of the cuisine here would approach or even match impeccable Japanese standards. We were delighted to discover that the dutiful kitchen crew here does an equally superlative job. We sampled nearly all the small plates on offer the night of our visit. They were prepared with truly exquisite attention to every Asian culinary detail. Terrific, super-crispy potstickers--make sure to get them fried. The shrimp (ebi) small plate was also perfectly done sporting a delicately crispy tempura-like coating around huge prawns. And the pork loin tonkatsu came with perfectly prepared medallions of meat, artfully breaded and prepped complete with great, richly flavorful tonkatsu sauce and an intense Japanese hot mustard that rates as a 3-alarm blaze. (Ask to take some home to spread on every one of your preferred tidbits! This is a universal hot, hot condiment for sure!) Great, inventive cocktail menu anchored by fine array of Japanese spirits. Good beers and wines on tap, too. Very welcoming, highly professional, ideally attentive waitstaff (make sure to tip them accordingly well). Clear good sign: the large numbers of Japanese-speaking solo and group diners steadily being welcomed to the establishment (SE 7th St. location). What's not to love? (Although we did not sample, the ramen here is celebrated as among the best such bowls in all of Portland.) So go already!
Yama Sushi & Izakaya
| Address | 2038 SE Clinton St, Portland, OR 97202 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (503) 231-2859 |
The sale was smooth, the curry was flavorful, and the sushi was fresh. Could not ask for better! Their miso soup was also great since it was raining all day. Would absolutely recommend!
First time here, everything was great. I love the Uni, I ordered it twice 😋 Akimo no smell at all. The lobster bake rolls were a bit too greasy for me, a lot of mayonnaise sauce. White fish carpaccio was delicious too. After swallowing, the sesame fragrance lingers in the mouth.
Delicious ramen and sushi! The staff were friendly and the service was great. We would definitely recommend eating here, and would come again. Thank you!
Been coming here for years! Always so good. Some of the freshest fish in the city. Pricey but definitely worth it.
Good sushi, large and varied menu, very attentive staff.
Momoyama restaurant
| Address | 1022 NW Johnson St, Portland, OR 97209 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:30 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:30 PM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (971) 339-2173 |
My coworker recommended this restaurant, so I decided to have lunch here with my husband on a Saturday. Our server in the pic greeted us with a smile upon arrival. She was friendly and attentive the whole time we were there. The sashimi and sushi were both delightful as I expected. I don't like uni, but the uni pasta was so good I almost ordered another one. So was the Scallop. The ikageso karaage was ok.
My only complaint was sanitatation. The table wasn't really clean. What bothered me more was there were 2 big flies near the table. I wasn't comfortable while eating.
Overall, the food was okay, but the experience was slightly disappointing due to the service. While the fish quality was fine, there was a noticeable lack of engagement from the staff.
For example, we ordered the "Toyosu Special," which is one of the more unique offerings on the menu. However, it was served without any explanation of what the fish were. When ordering a special selection like that, part of the satisfaction comes from knowing what you are eating. Simply placing the plate on the table and leaving felt impersonal.
The atmosphere reminded me of a typical Japanese restaurant you might find in a smaller town or a touristy area—functional, but lacking a certain refined touch. If the service becomes more attentive and informative, the overall satisfaction would improve significantly.
Some of Portland's best omakase. Fresh, creative, generous, delicious. Scott's expertise shines through each course. Omakase requires booking 24h in advance, and it's certainly worth it. We'll be back!
Phenomenal and unique sushi offering. The salmon truffle special and Jamison role were incredible and omakase is a must. Fantastic customer service and an enthusiastic energy around the food.
I ordered the Salmon Bento Box for takeout. The bento came with miso soup, salad, shrimp tempura, California rolls, rice, and salmon. Overall, the food was good, with one clear exception: the salmon.
The rice was packed in what appeared to be a 16 oz container, which was more than enough. Everything else in the bento was fresh and enjoyable. The salmon was not in its own container. It was placed in the same container as the shrimp tempura and the sauces. When I opened it, the salmon portion immediately stood out as very small and looked dry.
Given the size of the salmon, the portioning felt unbalanced compared to the amount of rice provided. For a meal that cost about $20, the salmon portion was disappointing. To be direct, they played in my face with that small piece of salmon.
That said, I did like the atmosphere, and the staff was more than welcoming and friendly. I am willing to give the restaurant another try and dine in next time to see if this was a fluke, and I would also like to try some of their other menu items.
The overall food quality was good, but the salmon portion in this bento missed the mark.
Janken
| Address | 250 NW 13th Ave, Portland, OR 97209 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 5:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 – 11:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (503) 841-6406 |
Hard to find we had to call but they were very helpful and polite. Beautifully curated very easy coast vibes. The drinks and food was exceptional I loved the caviar cones. Our service was excellent however I felt the server’s were more attentive to my partner than the both of us. It made my experience less than ideal. Our main service person was beyond amazing!
We came to celebrate two birthdays and it was a great experience! The host was very attentive and he helped with recommendations as well as assisting with quantities so make sure we had enough to feed a party of 8 people. I liked the vibe they had with the plants, lighting and decor. Even their bathrooms were very clean. It was my first time there and I would definitely be back! Yes, it's very expensive but definitely worth the splurge for a good occasion.
Top shelf atmosphere. The menu is simple yet deep. It’s hard to not want to order one of everything. The food was explosive with flavors. The service was amazing. The manager was great. This will be a staple for Portland for years to come. You will not be disappointed. See our pictures!!!
The oysters were fresh, the sushi (Lemon truffle albacore) was amazing. The crispy rice w/Hamachi
Incredible. The gyoza was hand rolled with great flavor. The rib eye was great for family style serving. The miso seaweed cod was fresh and vibrant. The desserts were hard to choose. The ube crem
Brûlée was perfect for the ending of the meal. This is a must go to!
Janken is a great place to celebrate a special occasion or just to enjoy delicious food! This is our 2nd time coming and it was a fantastic experience just like the 1st time we came.
I recommend making a reservation for a time at/near opening if you want a quieter atmosphere. It will get busy and loud relatively quick within an hour.
I want to really I give it a 4.5. The service and staff were amazing! A phenomenal experience. The caviar service and steak tartar were delicious! They have this special off menu caviar pasta that is life changing. Then the other 4 dishes that were ordered were just okay. If I could eat that pasta everyday I would. I didn’t have any cocktails but they also looked very good and highly crafted.
Yataimura Maru
| Address | 3810 SE Division St, Portland, OR 97202 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 – 9:30 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 3:00 – 10:30 PM Friday: 3:00 – 10:30 PM Saturday: 1:00 – 10:30 PM Sunday: 1:00 – 9:30 PM |
| Phone | (503) 841-5527 |
I got two orders of the Shoyu ramen. It tasted pretty decent for the price and the portions were good for $16. I ordered take-out and the guy handling transactions was very nice, respectful, and honest about the 15 minute wait. However about 12 hours after eating the ramen me and my boyfriend got extreme food poisoning and have been incredibly sick with diarrhea and nausea for the past 24 hours. While we won't be eating here again, it might be worth the risk for others.
Was craving sushi late. I was not disappointed. Very delish! And this! It's not alive ... Just heat and bonito flakes.
Great later night sushi on Division. The miso is excellent and so is the service. I have never included a bathroom in a review, but it's worth checking out.
Love this place. Probably the best sushi in the neighborhood, fresh sushi, good service, really convenient. Decently priced and good indoor/outdoor seating. Love all the wooden booths inside and the big windows. Looking forward to trying more things on the menu!
My friend and I had a wonderful dinner here! The food was 10/10 (make sure to check out the rotating specials!!) and our server Dakota was super sweet and funny! Lovely atmosphere and incredible food. Thank you!
Ginza Pearl District Portland
| Address | 875 NW Everett St, Portland, OR 97209 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 3:30 PM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 3:30 PM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 3:30 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 3:30 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 3:30 PM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 3:30 PM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 3:30 PM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (971) 346-2141 |
We went to Ginza tonight with a group of 3- my girlfriend, her sister, and I, and we were BLOWN AWAY! Every piece of Nigiri, Sashimi, Yakitori, and Sushi roll we had felt very hand crafted and carefully selected.
The bartender and what I might assume was the owner very friendly and informative. Each recommendation was more delicious than the last, especially the truffle toro. Every piece of fish was rich, decadent, and the freshest available I’ve ever had in Portland. We were shown pictures of today’s catch on offer with a description of each type from the host. For 3 people over roughly an hour and a half was surprisingly affordable and shareable.
Can’t recommend this place enough if you are looking to dazzle family members or guests with superb service and unique, carefully considered dishes.
5/5 stars for service, presentation, and overall taste!
They’ve gained a customer for life.
Came for a late dinner for two straight from PDX. Overall had a good experience, a lovely late night meal.
Drinks are solid. There’s a variety of options with and without alcohol. The mocktails are worth a try!
On the food side, we tried a good deal of the menu. A mix of Japanese and Chinese dimsum, there’s a lot to enjoy. Fried chicken and calamari were both very crisp and well seasoned—not too greasy. Skewers were mixed—beef was dry but bbq eel were especially good. Sushi was solid. Ginza combo had a good variety of fresh fish even that late at night.
Don’t skip dessert. Matcha soufflé à la mode was our favorite of the night.
Service was excellent. Host was courteous and we were seated promptly.
Ginza was a great first meal here in Portland. Would recommend.
We came across this place as the only sushi in the area open before 5pm and were so happy we found it. It was a nice day and they had the garage doors open where we almost sat outside while being inside the restaurant.
Leo who was attending us was fantastic. You could see the passion for service and the food served. Great service!
Now the food - likely some of the best fish we had. Fresh, flavorful, very beautifully presented. It took a bit longer because there was one chef from Japan working hard but well worth the wait. Highly recommend!
Every dish was beautifully presented and tasted great. Sushi is fresh & tender as you can get it. Five colors sashimi was my favorite dish of the evening, I thought it was a great value for all of the fresh fish.
Ginza is a fantastic spot! The food is always delicious with bold flavors, and the service is warm and welcoming. London, one of the employees, is nice and friendly always ready to help and provide great service. Highly recommend if you’re looking for something savory- the Thai Red Curry with Chicken, Yaki Soba Beef, Chicken Feet, and Spare Ribs are all amazing choices. Definitely worth a visit!
Kizuki Ramen & Izakaya (Uptown)
| Address | 33 NW 23rd Pl, Portland, OR 97210 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (877) 839-5498 |
Kizuki Ramen & Izakaya in Portland absolutely deserves five stars. Everything we ordered was fantastic. The Vegetable Ramen was rich, comforting, and full of flavor, with a broth that tasted deeply satisfying without feeling heavy. The Spicy Miso Ramen with pork belly was incredible—perfectly spicy, deeply savory, and topped with tender pork belly that made every bite better than the last. We also loved the Japanese pastry bun stuffed with pork belly, which was soft, flavorful, and completely delicious. Every dish felt carefully made and packed with quality.
This was an outstanding meal from start to finish, and I'll definitely be coming back.
Israel is the man!! Thank you for remedying my order the last time I came with my current order. I ordered the garlic tonkatsu with 2 eggs not charging me for the extra egg this time. Broth was hot, rich garlic flavor and darn tasty! I appreciated his kindness.
Tip: order at the restaurant rather than door dash. The prices are definitely less expensive if ordering directly.
Shout out to Israel!
I just ordered from Uber eats. Not expecting much considering it was delivered and I was blown away. The boxes and bag were packaged with care in nice boxes and everything was separate to keep it fresh. The beauty of the boxes makes a difference and feels like an experience. I sampled some broth and already knew I was in for a treat. It is phenomenal. My photo shows how much of my meal I was able to get through before writing this review. I was not expecting this from delivery ramen, I can't imagine how good it must be in the restaurant. I hope to visit soon.
The best ramen we have ever had.
I recommend to choose the less sodium option.
They also have kids menu which is great.
We will be back!
Food is great here- must try and have. Everything we ordered we ate till the last crumble - complements to the chefs. - and so quickly that I forgot to take pictures. :)))
Amaebi Sushi and Hibachi
| Address | 1430 SE Water Ave #102, Portland, OR 97214 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 – 11:30 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 11:30 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 11:30 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 11:30 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (971) 666-8731 |
Great lunch option if you're in SE Portland! We arrived right when they opened and were kindly greeted and seated. Our food was made fresh and hibachi came out sizzling hot. Our party ordered a chicken bento box lunch special and the steak/shrimp hibachi. Both dishes hit the spot!
This restaurant is everything you want from a local sushi joint. I loved every item. Thai iced tea, yummy. Nigiri, met all expectations. Caterpillar roll, saucy. One piece of fish my wife mentioned thinking was less fresh than the rest, full fair review. The tempura calamari was made in house recipe better than bagged fried style in most restaurants.
We decided to check out a new spot today — Amaebi Sushi and Hibachi. The place looks new, very clean, and welcoming. The staff greeted us warmly when we walked in, which was a nice touch.
They forgot our chopsticks at first, but no big deal. We ordered the Salmon Lover and Philadelphia rolls — both were good, though the seaweed inside was a bit too chewy and the Salmon Lover had a little too much sauce. The miso soup was excellent, but the edamame had a strange aftertaste that we didn’t enjoy.
I also tried a dish with steak, scallops, shrimp, and mushrooms. The steak and mushrooms were flavorful and cooked perfectly, while the scallops were rather plain.
The restrooms were spotless and smelled nice, which I always appreciate.
We've been here twice so far and everytime I leave, I'm already planning my next trip back. The food is always amazing and everyone is so nice and welcoming! I think these were the best chicken wings I've ever had, I dream about them while I sleep. I can't imagine being disappointed by anything that they serve.
An absolute gem-- I am so glad I came across this new restaurant by chance today. And even happier to support a local family-owned/family-operated business. But especially because their food is sooo good. I got a Salmon bento box with Philadelphia rolls, and also the hamachi and unagi Nigiri (not pictured because I inhaled them they were so good lol)! Budhi is so nice and very seriously hard working. I know you'll get all the success and business that you deserve 👏 thank you for a delicious meal ☺️
Koji Osakaya Japanese Restaurant
| Address | 1502 NE Weidler St, Portland, OR 97232 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 4:30 – 8:30 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 4:30 – 8:30 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 4:30 – 8:30 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 4:30 – 8:30 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 4:30 – 9:00 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 8:30 PM |
| Phone | (503) 280-0992 |
An awesome neighborhood ramen and so much more - a jewel of a restaurant. It’s the Mighty Mouse of Osakaya restaurants. The ramen- damn, it’s so good. They make their own takoyaki- hard to find- and oh so fine!!! Their gyoza came out piping hot, tender and packed with flavor. For the life of me I can’t remember the name of the dish that looks like a corn dog and is so original in flavor. A must experience for lovers of all things Japanese!!!!!
This is our favorite sushi restaurant. We have been regulars for over 10 years and love to bring our friends and family here as well. They have the best spicy tuna made in a way you never see anywhere else. The sushi is always fresh and they offer new and delicious options all the time. The staff are so friendly and welcoming (,they remember our favorite drink!). So glad to have this place!
Was searching for cold soba and found Koji while in the neighborhood at the end of a work trip. So glad I did! The server was so kind and welcoming (and a beautiful person), and the soba and tempura vegetables were delicious. I wish I was able to eat here more often, but will definitely be back when in Portland again.
Great authentic Japanese food in the Lloyd District. The only Japanese owned restaurant in the area. Fantastic family very welcoming, vast variety of fresh fish direct from Japan. They really want to take care of you when you come in. They ask the right questions and make sure your meal was uniquely special to you. Mine sure was. You can expect to see me here again, maybe even on the same visit!
I've tried about every sushi bar in the northeast and southeast. This is hands down the best. Great fish, beautiful presentation and not to be a snob but the chef and workers are all Japanese. It makes a difference in the ambience to me. Fast friendly service and generous portions. No reason to go anywhere else.
Takibi | Japanese Ramen & Restaurant
| Address | 2275 NW Flanders St, Portland, OR 97210 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 4:30 – 8:30 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 4:30 – 8:30 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 4:30 – 8:30 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 4:30 – 8:30 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 4:30 – 8:30 PM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 4:30 – 8:30 PM |
| Phone | (971) 888-5713 |
Came across this place and decided to try it. They serve contemporary Japanese food, and it was pretty good. The environment is great, a modern/fine dining decoration. I especially enjoy their cold noodles, it is chewy and flavorful. The pace is also great, and it took me ~1.5 hr to finish the full course, which you get to try a variety of iconic Japanese cuisines. The price is high, but it is worthwhile.
The food was absolutely delicious! Salmon melted in your mouth. Forgot to take a picture of one roll because we ate it so fast (abacore tempura maki). They had happy hour when we arrived as well (430-530 W-M). The drink was good and a treat but probably wouldn't get it again...can't remember the name but it was a non alcoholic version of a cocktail. We ordered edamame, akanegi maki, salmon sashimi 5pc, abacore tempura maki, and the happy hr hand roll. Definitely will be back!
Came here for Portland Dining Month and glad we did. We had:
First course
Tuna sashimi and simmered pork chashu, bamboo shoots, brussels sprouts, spicy mustard miso
Second course
Marinated black cod, steam rice, miso soup
Plus we added Albacore tempura maki
Third course
Mochi cake, which consists of butter mochi, coconut cream, anko, kuromitsu, and seasonal fruit
Food was delicious but small portions. We added a roll since the cod was about the size of one’s thumb. The tea came out in a Snow Peak cup. It was metal and stayed hot. So it was a hard to drink out of it and had to wait awhile. Service was wonderful. Dining area is beautiful but pretty loud. So it was a little difficult to have a conversation. Still a wonderful experience and will come back to try out the menu.
Really nice little outdoor lunch spot. When we went in January around noon discovered the indoor restaurant isn’t open for seatings but they have a cute little outdoor area that was quite warm and nice. The menu for lunch was limited but good. The ramen was good. We didn’t get our correct order but the staff was very nice about replacing it. I ended up just accepting the wrong thing and enjoying it! And they gave a free app as a thanks.
We genuinely enjoy coming here for both the food and the bartender. Our first visit didn’t go well, but we were invited back, which we appreciated. The second visit was a big improvement—the food was really good and showed a lot more care and consideration. By the third visit, we found ourselves coming back specifically because of the bartender and the consistency of the food. Overall, the dishes feel thoughtful and well-executed, and the drinks were solid and enjoyable. It’s nice to see a place take feedback seriously and continue to improve, and we’re glad we gave it another chance.
Izakaya Kichinto
| Address | 102 NE Russell St, Portland, OR 97212 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 3:00 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 3:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 3:00 PM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 3:00 PM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 1:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (971) 255-0169 |
Came here for the first time a few months ago after an EDEN show at the Wonder Ballroom. It has quickly become my favorite food in Portland. The vibe is amazing. The food is outstanding. The service is impeccable. I tried out the chicken katsu curry and the takoyaki and have been blown away every single time! The gyoza dumplings are amazing and so is the calpico frozen blended beverage. I have nothing bad to say about this place. If you go there and get Nan as your server you are in for the best service of your life ! They somehow heard my chopstick fall onto the ground and was at the table with a fresh pair within seconds. I don't know how she did it. If you go please be sure to show her some love! My favorite food and some of my favorite people! A must if you like Asian food in Portland! Hmu on IG: leo_leonardoiii :3 🖤🤍🍜🥟🥢🍛🍦
Omg soooooo good, the sushi was so fresh and came out at a good time. curry was so gooddddd, and its super cool inside! I will definitely be coming back! absolutely no complaints here!
Yummy food. I think i like almost everything, but just haven't tried all menu yet. Side dishes are yummy, sushi were great too. Dessert I liked the most was tayaki 🤍 Banana desert is not that good tasting and they were out of match tiramisu, and that is I am gonna need to try next time.
The employees, the atmosphere, the vibes... Everything is on point.
I want to especially call out the cold soba! This is the only place I can find it in Portland. And it is spot on. How I remember it in Tokyo. Their food here is fantastic!
I want to start by saying if you are POC/black do NOT come here!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I took my fiancè here right after she came out of surgery, because sushi is her favorite food and I wanted to help her feel better as she was coming out of sedation/anesthesia. She ordered a tea, and I ordered a drink that our server recommended. I wanted a beer, but she brought me a sakè. I immediately asked if I could switch to a beer, because that was what I had wanted, and did not expect her to bring me a sakè. She said absolutely no problem. Then we ordered our food. Before we got our meal, the server came back and let us know we will still need to pay for the sakè that I didn’t even touch and she immediately took away, and I didn’t want in the first place. i was annoyed but agreed. I then asked if she could bring the sakè since we have to pay for it anyways, and she said yes, but you will be charged for two sakes and the beer. MAKES NO SENSE! At this point, I’m upset because my fiance is already in pain from surgery and I’m just trying to get her some food she likes before going home. My fiance is also annoyed by the situation, and tells them she’s been a server/bartender for 7 years, and that this is not how to get service. She asked to cancel our order and asks them to bring the check with just the drinks and we will just leave without eating our meal. The server then tells us she doesn’t know if she can do that because “the kitchen already started on our food” MAKES NO SENSE
At this point my fiance is tired and wants to go. They take forever to finally bring the check, my fiancè ended up waiting in the car because it took so long. They ended up charging me for the food, and the beer, and the sake!!! Absolutely ridiculous. Asked for a manager twice, but the manager never came. told them I would be waiting until the manager was able to talk then, who I still never saw, but the server then agreed to refund only the sake. We shouldn’t have had to pay for anything. I didn’t even have a sip of the beer. Terrible Terrible experience. I will never be back and if you are also a black or POC I would stay away from this place.
Tips for Choosing Your Ideal Japanese Restaurant
Before you make a reservation or stand in line, it helps to understand the different styles of Japanese dining available in Portland. The city offers everything from quiet, meditative omakase experiences to loud, energetic izakaya where the sake flows freely. Knowing what you want from the evening—whether it is a quick lunch or a three-hour tasting menu—will significantly improve your experience. Here are a few practical considerations to help you match your appetite to the right venue.
1. Understand the difference between Sushi and Izakaya.
Not every Japanese restaurant is a sushi bar. An izakaya is essentially a Japanese pub, focusing on small plates meant for sharing, such as yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), karaage (fried chicken), and vegetable dishes. If you are dining with a group or want a more social, varied meal, an izakaya might be a better fit than a strict sushi counter.
2. Respect the Omakase experience.
If you choose a high-end sushi counter, consider ordering "omakase," which translates to "I leave it up to you." This allows the chef to serve the best fish available that day. It is often the best way to experience the chef’s skill, but be prepared for a longer meal and a higher price point. Do not ask for substitutions or excessive soy sauce; trust the chef’s seasoning.
3. Look for seasonal specials.
Great Japanese cuisine is deeply tied to the seasons (shun). The best restaurants will feature whiteboards or special menus listing fish that is currently at its peak. In Portland, this might mean local Chinook salmon in the spring or Hokkaido scallops in the winter. Always ask about what is "fresh today" or "in season" before defaulting to the standard tuna and salmon.
4. Check the rice quality.
In sushi, the rice is just as important as the fish. A top-tier restaurant will serve rice that is slightly warm, seasoned with a balanced blend of rice vinegar, sugar, and salt, and has a distinct individual grain texture. If a place serves cold, hard, or mushy rice, the quality of the fish will not save the meal.
5. Consider the lunch menu for value.
Many of Portland’s finest Japanese restaurants offer significantly cheaper lunch menus that feature the same quality of ingredients as dinner. If you want to try a high-end spot without the hefty dinner bill, look for a lunch "chirashi bowl" (scattered sashimi over rice) or a limited sushi set. It is the best way to sample premium fish on a budget.
6. Book ahead for specialty seating.
If you want the full experience, request a seat at the sushi counter rather than a table. This allows you to watch the chef work, ask questions about the fish, and receive pieces at the ideal temperature. Counter seats are limited and often require a reservation weeks in advance, especially on weekends.
Portland’s Japanese food scene is a testament to the city’s dedication to culinary craft. Whether you are celebrating a milestone with a lavish omakase or simply warming up with a bowl of ramen on a rainy day, the options available rival those of much larger metropolitan areas. The connection between the Pacific Ocean and the skilled hands of Portland’s chefs creates a dining landscape that is both world-class and uniquely Oregonian.
Exploring these restaurants is a journey through technique and flavor. Take your time, ask questions, and appreciate the subtle details—the temperature of the rice, the sharpness of the knife, and the warmth of the hospitality. In Portland, the best Japanese meal is not just food; it is a quiet, delicious education.
