The possibilities of discovering different cultures in Berlin are endless. As I am scouting for restaurants in Berlin, I am always finding new highlights aka hidden gems, which I love to point out! I was recently day dreaming about cherry blossom, beautiful temples and of course delicious Japanese specialties like sushi and ramen, which made me think about a Top 5 of Japanese restaurants in Berlin. So here are my favorite Japanese restaurants in Berlin that will allow you a quick getaway to Japan without hopping on a plane.
Kumami: A Taste of Japan in Berlin-Köpenick
(Japanese restaurant)
Kumami is a culinary jewel in Berlin's Köpenick area, offering an authentic Japanese dining experience. Founded by Japanese architect-turned-chef Kuma Kenta and his wife Kumi in 2015, this small restaurant celebrates the simple yet profound philosophy of "Washoku." This approach emphasizes preserving the natural flavors of ingredients, contrasting with the complex preparations often found in European cuisine. The menu, crafted daily from fresh, local ingredients, ensures a unique meal with every visit. Advance reservations are essential as Kumami does not accommodate walk-ins, guaranteeing personalized attention and sustainability. For those seeking genuine Japanese flavors with a creative twist, Kumami is a must-visit destination in Berlin.
Kietzer Straße 3, 12555 Berlin (Köpernick), gastronomie.kumami@hotmail.com, www.kumamiberlin.com Station: S3 Köpernick Fr-Sun by reservation (aperitif starts at 18:00)
893 Ryotei
(Japanese restaurant)
From the outside you see a building covered in graffiti, but when you walk inside this low-lit Japanese restaurant in Berlin, adorned with marble counter tops and plush interiors you will be blown away. Their menu stretches across many kitchens, taking you on a long journey from Tokyo to Lima, and back via Mexico City. More information you can find on my upcoming BertaBerlin map from Charlottenburg.
Kantstraße 135, 10625 Berlin (Charlottenburg), +49 30 91 70 31 21, www.893ryotei.de, Station: S3, S5, S7, S9 Savignyplatz, Tue–Sat 18:00–22:00
Sasaya
(Japanese restaurant)
As one of many Japanese restaurants in Berlin Sasaya does not only serve fantastic sushi. The Omakase plate is highly recommend as well. Appetizers like the Tsukemono (pickled vegetables), the Takana (fried vegetables) and the Kukiwakame (seaweed salad) are also very tasty. So you better come hungry. Also to be found in my BertaBerlin map about Prenzlauer Berg.
Lychener Straße 50, 10437 Berlin (Prenzlauer Berg), +49 30 44 71 77 21, www.sasaya-berlin-de.tumblr.com, Station: U2 Eberswalder Straße, Mon, Thu–Sun 12:00–15:00, 18:00–23:30
Cocolo Ramen
(Japanese restaurant)
When talking about Japanese restaurants in Berlin this temple of ramen worship cannot be left out. You can order a variety of the Japanese noodle soups. Most likely, you’ll have to get in line to get a seat. But it is worth the wait, as you will be offered delicious, fresh noodles in a tasty broth, topped with meat or vegetables, eggs and wakame. More information can be found on my BeautyBerlin map.
Graefestraße 11, 10967 Berlin (Kreuzberg), +49 30 98 33 90 73, www.kuchi.de/restaurant/cocolo-x-berg, Station: U8 Schönleinstraße, Mon–Sat 12:00–22:00
Rice In
(Japanese restaurant)
Are you fancy for sushi? Well then, a must try sushi restaurant in Berlin Friedrichshain is definitely Rice In. It is a very simple place, not fancy at all and the definition of Japanese cuisine is definitely well represented here. They not only serve sushi there but also bowls of sashimi and rice. If you want to drink beer, they have nice variety of Korean ones.
Grünberger Straße 88, 12045 Berlin (Friedrichshain), +49 30 85 61 69 33, Station: U5 Samariterstraße, Wed-Sun 15:00–23:00
Sasaya
(Japanese restaurant)
This lovely Japanese restaurant in Prenzlauer Berg and serves great nigiri - especially the lightly grilled ones are highly recommended! Personally, I am not a huge fan of their rolls, but their superb nigiri, fantastic donburi (rice bowls) and their fine assortment of starters and desserts, teas and sakes make a visit worthwhile. Go here for a casual date or to meet friends. Also: Good value for money! Reservation required. More information can be found on my BertaBerlin map about Charlottenburg.
Lychenerstraße 50, 10437 Berlin (Prenzlauer Berg), +49 30 44 71 77 21, www.sasaya-berlin.de, Station: U2, S8, S41, S42, S85 Schönhauser Allee, Thu–Mon, 12:00–15:00, 18:00–23:30
If you want to find more hidden gems of Berlin, check out my folding maps BertaBerlin and QueerBerlin. They are available in well-chosen locations all over Charlottenburg, Neukölln, Kreuzberg, Mitte and Prenzlauer Berg in Berlin and online. But for those of you, who want to stay up to date, feel free to follow me on INSTAGRAM, FACEBOOK or register for my NEWSLETTER BertaNews.
Write a comment
Mia (Tuesday, 14 December 2021 10:39)
The word kitchen in English really only refers to the room in a house where the food is cooked. We use the French word cuisine to talk about cooking styles and I thought you might find it good and useful to try and do the same and avoid sounding ever so odd.
Happy holidays!
Mia