Northern Virginia is a haven for foodies, especially those who love Japanese cuisine. From traditional sushi bars to modern fusion restaurants, there's something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a casual spot to grab a bite or a special occasion restaurant, these are the top Japanese restaurants in Northern Virginia that you won't want to miss. Gyu Shige is one of the most popular Japanese restaurants in Northern Virginia.
Established in 1988 in Tokyo, the Fairfax branch is the first in the United States. Gyu Shige specializes in yakiniku, which is grilled or barbecued meat. The technique focuses on extracting the natural flavor of the meat. But don't worry, sushi lovers – Gyu Shige also offers an impressive selection of sushi rolls.
The Mosaic Roll is a unique offering of lobster tempura with jalapeño and mango, while the classic King Dragon Roll is sure to please. Customers praise the restaurant for its excellent service and delicious food, making it a neighborhood treasure. Takumi is another top-rated Japanese restaurant in Northern Virginia. The chefs choose only the highest quality ingredients to create memorable and delicious dishes. The sushi roll menu is extensive, with options including salmon and tuna, as well as octopus, squid and roe.
Sashimi, a traditional raw fish dish, can also be found on the menu. Every meal also comes with miso soup and a salad, so you won't leave hungry. The Handover is another great option for sushi lovers in Northern Virginia. The restaurant describes its sushi as “with the freshest fish and the best rice pillow” – a perfect combination for a fantastic roll. The à la carte menu includes two-piece nigiri or sashimi and six-piece maki rolls.
Creative dishes include cured egg yolk with dashi over grilled avocado with shiso chimichurri. Matsu Sushi has become one of the most beloved sushi restaurants in Centreville over the past nine years. With fresh fish, exotic sashimi dishes, and a variety of combined meals, its high-quality ingredients and large portions don't disappoint. Blue Ocean Izakaya is another great option for sushi lovers in Northern Virginia. Opened by two renowned sushi chefs with 30 years of experience, Blue Ocean Izakaya offers more than just sushi – there are also udon noodles, teriyaki chicken and wasabi octopus on the menu. The temaki, handmade rolls characterized by their conical shape, are prepared by the chef and immediately delivered to the bamboo bar so that customers can enjoy each roll at its freshest. Kaz Sushi Bistro has been serving up delicious sushi for decades in Washington D.
C., and it's still going strong today. Customers flock to this affordable spot for made-to-order rolls and fresh sashimi at an affordable price. Call ahead or purchase grocery items from Japan while you wait for takeout orders. Onkei at Western Market is run by Ferry Huang, who also owns Onkei at Western Market. This pocket-sized Japanese restaurant offers an à la carte range of two-piece nigiri or sashimi and six-piece maki rolls, as well as small plates such as shumai seafood meatballs or hamachi carpaccio.
Nightly karaoke returns at this Shaw hangout with table reservation. Kotobuki is another great spot for sushi lovers in Northern Virginia. There are no monstrous dragon scrolls here – instead, look for products such as kamameshi (vegetables and meat served in an iron teapot) accompanied by sashimi and small plates. O-Ku is a high-end restaurant that offers omakase menus for special occasions. Choose from a wide range of creative rolls and affordable omakase from a Nakazawa student. This faithful raw fish from Adams Morgan got a big boost with rising Japanese chef Masako Morishita at the helm. Kushi and Perry's (now Darren Norris) is another great option for sushi lovers in Northern Virginia.
The menu includes ramen, kushiyaki grilled on Binchotan charcoal that reaches temperatures of 975 degrees, small plates such as the acclaimed Japanese potato salad and fresh sushi. Chef Minoru Ogawa's eponymous restaurant in Adams Morgan is another eye-catching destination for lunch or dinner in Georgetown. Prepare standard sashimi, nigiri and chirashi with precision, all with the highest quality fish. Despite being open for more than 20 years in D. C., chef Kaz Okochi continues to change things on the menu at his restaurant Napoleonic sea bass with coriander, peanuts and fried wonton skin. This punky, party-ready sushi turns a boring meal upside down with a gong that sounds like every order for a sake bomb at Joe Biden's favorite raw fish restaurant in Glover Park – Shōtō. No matter your budget or taste preferences, Northern Virginia has something to offer everyone when it comes to Japanese cuisine.
From traditional sushi bars to modern fusion restaurants, there's something for everyone – so don't miss out on these amazing restaurants!.