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Every exceptional Japanese restaurant in Brisbane

Delight in the authentic flavours of neon-lit cities with our list of every epic Japanese restaurant in Brisbane.

Clean, delicate and enormously flavoursome dishes have turned Japanese cooking into one of Australia’s most-loved cuisines. In Brisbane, whether I’m salivating at the thought of sushi or craving ramen, Japanese dining is embraced with gusto, so I’m always in for a treat. From waterfront spectaculars to understated gems, every incredible Japanese restaurant in Brisbane is nothing short of world-class. Let me detail the superstars here.

The Shortlist

Best hidden gem: Oyama
Best for casual eats: Taro’s Ramen
Best for special occasions: Sokyo
Most budget-friendly: Bird’s Nest
Best views: Sono

1. Hideki

a Bento lunch at Hideki Japanese restaurant, Brisbane
Hideki creates a delicious bento lunch.

The buzz around Hideki in November 2025 was around its new James Street expansion, but I love the original yakitori bar for nailing one of the city’s most authentic takes on Japanese dining. Firstly, it’s down a little laneway (feeling very Shinjuku), a glowing cherry blossom tree positioned out the front of a black facade. The moody feel extends inside with a glowing cuboidal feature wall behind the bar. It’s gorgeous and so very Tokyo. The yakitori itself is exceptionally fresh, blistered to perfection and spanning vegetables like charred corn, king prawns and scallops. There are also larger plates (the truffle mushroom noodles are as heavenly as they sound) and a raw bar. But it’s those flavour-packed skewers that always steal my heart.

Average Price: $$

Atmosphere: Transportive

Location: 34 Burnett Ln, Brisbane

2. Sushi Room

holding chopsticks with sushi at Sushi Room, Japanese restaurant Brisbane
The aptly named restaurant spins good sushi. (Image: Josh Maguire)

I struggle to find Sushi Room in The Calile, its façade blending into the coastal timber-cool the hotel is renowned for (look for the staircase leading up to the pool if you’re really lost), but the Japanese restaurant in Brisbane’s understated exterior only adds to its allure. Inside, a minimalistic, jaw-droppingly sophisticated interior compliments equally dazzling food. Lobster, A5 sirloin, scampi and sea urchin dot the sashimi menu while Oscietra caviar can be rolled out with oysters. It’s seafood central, in fact, with fresh catches filling the sushi, tempura and grilled menus, so temptation beckons from every angle. My personal highlight? The freshly grated wasabi, far smoother than those shiny silver packets at Sushi Train,

Average Price: $$$$

Atmosphere: Schmick

Location: Ground level, The Calile Hotel, 48 James St, Fortitude Valley

3. Sokyo

Sokyo's signature platter, Japanese restaurant Brisbane
Sokyo’s signature platter is as beautiful as it is delicious. (Image: Nicole Barclay / The Star Entertainment Group)

Loyalists of its Sydney outpost get to soak up the magic of Sokyo in Brisbane, as the restaurant’s famed ‘sashimi florist’ is found inside The Star Brisbane. If you like your Japanese Instagram-friendly, this place is for you. Bringing traditional flavours into the now with serious artistic flair, Executive Chef Alex Yu said ‘florist’ – leads an inspired team. You’ll find all-star dishes, like the miso-glazed toothfish with jalapeno salsa (the ‘Glacier 51’ if you’re scanning the menu for it) plus my personal favourite, the spicy tuna crispy rice nigiri, alongside a seasonally led roll-out of daring pursuits.

Average Price: $$$

Location: The Star Brisbane, Level 2, 33 William St, Brisbane

4. Komeyui Brisbane

a spread of Japanese food at Komeyui Brisbane
A Japanese feast prepared to perfection at Komeyui Brisbane.

Extending the success of its original Melbourne location, Komeyui Brisbane is authentic and ingredient fresh. Gone are the matte black fit outs famed throughout the laneways of Tokyo, replaced with a bright, contemporary and very tatami room-feeling design that embraces slow, intentional dining. Chef Kumano taps into his posh Osaka culinary school training, balancing every flavour tenderly and creating dishes with stories to tell. His two-tier Shokado Bento Box is the star of the show, fitted with sashimi, sushi, tempura, grilled fish, oyster, scallop foie gras and more.

Average Price: $$$$

Atmosphere: Homely

Location: 191-203 Wharf St, Spring Hill

5. Yoko Dining

a spread of Japanese food at Yoko Dining, Brisbane
Tuck into a satisfying Japanese brunch at Yoko Dining.

A star in Howard Smith Wharves’ crown, Yoko  is a relaxed spot overlooking the Brisbane River where Japanese favourites shine. Lively and fun-fuelled without compromising on scrupulous culinary handiwork, the hot spot draws big groups, especially at lunch on Saturday and Sunday when Buns and Bubbles, one of the city’s best bottomless brunches, offers a set menu of chicken katsu steam buns, ceviche with taco shells, spica tuna sushi, miso-caramel soft serve and almost two hours of prosecco, wine and beer. I love this place at sunset too, when looking out over the water with a glass of bubbles or few proves euphoric.

Average Price: $$

Atmosphere: Bouncy and fun

Location: Howard Smith Wharves, 2/5 Boundary St, Brisbane

6. Honto

dining at Honto Japanese restaurant, Brisbane
The banquet menus deliver contemporary classics. (Image: David Chatfield)

Adored by inner-city slickers craving a generously plated feast, Honto  is a Japanese restaurant in Brisbane I love for nights out with friends. Shining a light on fresh and seasonal ingredients, it delivers contemporary classics, dialling up flavour profiles to ridiculous heights. Choose something from the raw bar, which always impresses, but move into dumplings and noodles territory quick to sniff out excellent ramen and potstickers. Two banquet menus are also on hand to take the brain power out of selecting.

Average Price: $$$

Atmosphere: Bustling

Location: Alden St, Fortitude Valley

7. Boom Boom Room

a Japanese feast at Boom Boom Room, Brisbane
The Boom Boom Room exudes glamorous speakeasy vibes.

One-of-a-kind and totally fabulous, the Boom Boom Room  is a must-experience dinner during your visit to the Queensland capital. Located in the underground chambers of a historic bank in the CBD, beneath the Chinese restaurant Donna Chang, you’ll need to step down a beautiful old staircase to find it. While throwing very glamorous speakeasy vibes, it delivers a range of authentic dishes spanning raw seafood, sushi, yakitori skewers, small plates and larger mains.

Average Price: $$

Atmosphere: Theatrical

Location: 49 Elizabeth St, Brisbane

8. Taro’s Ramen

a bowl of Taro's Ramen, Brisbane
Tuck into a comforting, warm bowl of Taro’s Ramen.

Replicating the understated hidey-holes found throughout Japan’s cobblestone streets, Taro’s Ramen  is my cheap-as-chips go-to for blissful noodle soup (they’re roughly 20 bucks a pop). Located in the CBD, South Brisbane and beyond, the chain packs its creations with ample-plus flavour and freshly sourced ingredients. Scan the list for your favourite broth, grab a table and slurp it into oblivion. It’s often hailed as the best ramen in town, plus the CBD venue turns into an Izakaya joint (serving small plates and drinks) at night.

Average Price: $

Atmosphere: Casual

Location: Various spots across Brisbane – check out the full list via the website

9. Sono

waterfront dining at Sono Japanese restaurant, Brisbane
Dine on flavourful Japanese classics with views of the Brisbane River. (Image: Dylan Evans Photography)

A foodie stalwart located right off the Brisbane River in Hamilton, Sono  is long renowned for its Japanese artistry. Entering the venue and spying its absolute waterfront views literally took my breath away so I recommend hustling as early as possible to book a seat by the floor-to-ceiling windows. The food is fresh, flavoursome and lavish, and its raw bar is stocked with the likes of lobster, sea urchin, kingfish belly and other divine delicacies.

Average Price: $$$$

Atmosphere: Serene

Location: Level 1, Portside Wharf, 39 Hercules St, Hamilton

10. Oyama

the dining interior at Oyama, Brisbane
Oyama restaurant nails a flaming banquet.

Love yourself some teppanyaki? My family and I feel you. Get to Oyama , my favourite kid-friendly Japanese restaurant in Brisbane, which nails a flaming banquet plus a la carte showstoppers. It’s relaxed and if you choose teppanyaki, you’ll catch all the usual suspects, including prawns, chicken teriyaki, eye fillet steak and seasonal vegetables. Been there, done that, just starving? The regular menu is full of delights like a Moreton Bay bug hand roll, chicken Karaage and yakitori skewers.

Average Price: $$

Atmosphere: Family-friendly

Location: Shop 30, 115 Wickham St, Fortitude Valley

11. Ippin Japanese Dining

caviar at Ippin Japanese Dining, Brisbane
The elevated Japanese menu puts a spotlight on local produce.

Bringing elevated Japanese cuisine to Brisbane’s West End, Ippin Japanese Dining  is a slick operation flooded with natural light and enveloped in lush greenery. Stare out at glossy green foliage as beautifully prepared dishes roll out of the kitchen. Menu superstars include warmed seafood salads and pillowy soft tempura, while set menus spin off the seasons to showcase the region’s best produce.

Average Price: $$

Atmosphere: Relaxed

Location: The Garden Pavilion, West Village, Level 2/97 Boundary St, West End

12. Bird’s Nest

the red booths at Bird's Nest, Brisbane
Indulge in a yakitori feast in one of the red booths.

Offering epic Japanese fare at extremely reasonable prices, Bird’s Nest  is a Brisbane gem that attracts thick crowds. Split into four locations across the city, the restaurant specialises in charcoal-grilled Yakitori, making for a quick and easy bite in always atmospheric surroundings. Set menus present traditional Japanese dishes including gyoza, Karaage chicken, sashimi and edamame in addition to the grilled heroes, plus there’s street food (hello bao buns), a raw bar and larger plates on the wider menu.

Average Price: $$

Atmosphere: Energetic

Location: Various spots across Brisbane – check out the full list via the website

13. Soko Rooftop

I’d visited Soko Rooftop for drinks well before I ate there (it’s jungle-themed rooftop vibe is awesome come knock-off o’clock), so I was impressed when I found a beautiful menu for lunch one day. I take a seat inside where the glamour intensifies as a lovely member of staff keeps my water glass full and appears whenever I need him for anything else. I’m there on a Thursday and take advantage of a ‘Business Lunch’ bento deal which includes miso soup, baby corn tempura, a salad and a choice of five mains. I go for the AKA Tofu and it’s fluffy, dressed in ginger soy and teriyaki, and accompanied by rice. It’s a great casual spot to savour traditional flavours before kicking the party on just metres away al fresco-style.

Average Price: $$

Atmosphere: Party times

Location: 7 Symes St, Jubilee Pl, Fortitude Valley

Kristie Lau-Adams
Kristie Lau-Adams is a Gold Coast-based freelance writer after working as a journalist and editorial director for almost 20 years across Australia's best-known media brands including The Sun-Herald, WHO and Woman's Day. She has spent significant time exploring the world with highlights including trekking Japan’s life-changing Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage and ziplining 140 metres above the vines of Mexico’s Puerto Villarta. She loves exploring her own backyard (quite literally, with her two young children who love bugs), but can also be found stalking remote corners globally for outstanding chilli margaritas and soul-stirring cultural experiences.
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An insider’s guide to Noosa’s best-kept winter secrets

As the cooler weather rolls in, head to this popular Sunshine Coast destination to enjoy stunning natural beauty, culinary wonders and mild temperatures.

As southern Australia’s weather starts to cool – the frost visiting every morning and the evening chill descending at dusk – you might reach for your thickest cable knit sweater and warmest blanket. But why not reach for your suitcase and sunglasses and book a ticket to Noosa in winter instead?

Sure, it’s a favourite destination for sun-seeking summer travellers. But as locals will readily tell you, winter is the best time to uncover hidden gems across the region – not only is the weather mild and enjoyable, but the beaches and hinterland are picture-perfect, too. You might even spot a whale or two if you visit from June to September.

Discover how to spend your winter surrounded by Noosa’s stunning natural beauty.

Noosa Rivermouth And Main Beach
Make the most of mild temperatures of Noosa in winter.

Where to eat in Noosa

Known for its dynamic cuisine, Noosa is an overflowing foodie destination. Whatever your tastebuds fancy, the region has it covered.

There are the classic eateries, like lively beachfront Bistro C (try the caramelised pork belly), popular Season Restaurant on Hastings Street (order the spanner crab pasta) and stylish Locale (our pick is the slow roasted White Pyrenees lamb shoulder).

There are also chic new restaurants offering tasty dishes, like the Mediterranean fare at Pelis , Cantonese-inspired dim sums at Sabrosa , organic sourdough pizza from El Capitano , traditional recipes and tequila at Dona Cocina Mexicana and modern Italian-Australian creations from Lucio’s Marina .

diners at Lucio's Marina in noosa in winter
Taste modern Italian-Australian at Lucio’s Marina. (Image: Nickolas May)

Where to stay in Noosa

Once you’re full, you’ll need to find a place to lay your head, and Noosa has no shortage of accommodation options. From five-star resorts with palm-fringed lagoon pools to self-catered apartments and family-friendly budget options, stays in the heart of the action on Hastings Street to sleeping steps from the beach or in more spacious and relaxed accommodation along the river, Noosa offers something for everyone.

There’s the laid-back luxury of Netanya Noosa overlooking Noosa Main Beach, which offers studios, two- and three-bedroom apartments, or the family-oriented Ivory Palms Resort in Noosaville, with its three pools, jumping pillow and playground. Guests also love the versatile RACV Noosa Resort and its numerous pools, waterslides and tennis courts.

For a wildlife experience, hop on a ferry and travel to the eco-friendly Senses Noosa North Shore . Surrounded by 16 hectares of native bushland, the beautiful architect-designed property blends indoor and outdoor living and offers three stunning pools and a spa. Guests can even spot kangaroos and rainbow lorikeets from shaded verandahs.

a beachfront swimming pool at Netanya Noosa
Gaze over Noosa Main Beach at Netanya Noosa. (Image: Lumea Photo)

Things to do on land

There’s no denying it, the main beach – with its creamy-coloured sand, consistent breaks and epic coastline views – is Noosa’s shining star attraction. Bordering this is the wildly popular Noosa National Park, where you can explore over 15 kilometres of walking tracks, including options like the Coastal Walk, Tanglewood Walk and Palm Grove Walk.

A short stroll away is busy Hastings Street, which is full of life during the day and long into the night. Enjoy a little shopping, a late brunch, dinner out and a cocktail as the sun goes down.

Climb onto a fully electric tuk tuk with Noosa e-TukTuk to get an insider’s tour of the region. For a more in-depth exploration, book a bespoke tour with Joel’s Journeys and head to the lush green hinterland, or discover the rugged landscapes of Great Sandy National Park with Sunny Jeeps to spend the day with the wind in your hair and sand underfoot.

woman enjoying the view after hiking through Noosa National Park, noosa in winter
Take in views of the beautiful Noosa Hinterland. (Image: Demy Gavin)

Things to do in the water

Noosa isn’t just about the beach, the national parks and shopping; one of the most popular ways to embrace winter is to explore on water.

You could brave the waves on a surfboard, explore the languid Noosa River on a stand-up paddleboard or even head to the Noosa Everglades for a day adventuring on a boat, canoe or kayak.

Enjoy the winter sunsets aboard the newly launched HV Stillwater , a luxury, hybrid-powered catamaran that glides silently along Noosa’s waterways. You can also book a table on the only floating restaurant on the river – Noosa Cruiser – and dig into freshly cooked cuisine.

For a little more adventure, head out with Kingfisher Safari Co and cruise around the Noosa River Inlet and Lake Cootharaba. Or search for whales and dolphins (from June to September) on a small charter boat tour with WhaleSongs Noosa ; with an onboard researcher to explain what you’re seeing, as well as a hydrophone, you’ll be able to listen to the haunting songs of some of the world’s biggest animals while enjoying a winter’s day in the sun.

women kayaking through Noosa everglades noosa in winter
Explore the gorgeous Noosa Everglades. (Image: Emily Redfern)

Book your winter getaway in Noosa at visitnoosa.com.au.