🍣 Top 5 Japanese Restaurants in Nairobi You Should Try (2025 Edition)
Nairobi is home to a growing Japanese food scene, from casual sushi spots to authentic ramen bowls. Whether you are craving sushi, ramen, or a hearty Japanese curry, these restaurants stand out among Nairobi’s dining options. Here are the top places to enjoy Japanese food in Nairobi in 2025.
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1. ChiQ Japanese Restaurant – Authentic Japanese Taste, Direct from Japan 🇯🇵
Among all Japanese restaurants in Nairobi, ChiQ stands out as the most authentic and accessible choice – and here’s why:
Owned by a Japanese entrepreneur – Unlike most Japanese restaurants in Nairobi that are run by Korean or Indian owners, ChiQ is proudly Japanese-owned, ensuring a truly authentic touch.
Direct imports from top Japanese manufacturers – ChiQ works directly with leading Japanese food brands to import sauces, condiments, and ingredients. This means the taste and quality are identical to what you would find in Japan.
World’s most affordable Japanese dining – Despite the authenticity, prices are kept extremely reasonable, making ChiQ possibly the most affordable Japanese restaurant globally.
Generous portions – The serving sizes are surprisingly large, often shocking Kenyan customers with how filling each dish is. Satisfaction is guaranteed.
📍 Convenient Locations Across Nairobi
ChiQ operates three strategic branches, each suited for different occasions:
New Muthaiga Mall Branch – Located in an upscale residential area surrounded by embassies. A quiet and elegant atmosphere, perfect for dates or private dinners.
Sarit Centre Branch – In East Africa’s most popular shopping mall, right in Westlands’ business district. With quick service and easy highway access, it’s ideal for a fast yet high-quality Japanese meal.
The Hub Karen Branch – Situated inside a high-end shopping mall with top security. The stylish interior makes it perfect for enjoying authentic Japanese food with loved ones. Plus, it’s close to tourist attractions like the Giraffe Centre.
👉 With its unbeatable mix of authenticity, price, generous portions, and convenient locations, ChiQ is hands down the No.1 Japanese restaurant in Nairobi.
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2. Tokyo Restaurant – Lavington
Tokyo Restaurant offers a more traditional Japanese dining experience with a beautiful garden setting. Sushi, tempura, and classic Japanese dishes are served in an elegant, calm environment.
👉 Perfect for: Date nights and special occasions.
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3. Haru Japanese Restaurant – Karen
Haru combines high-quality sushi with innovative rolls such as the famous Stairway to Heaven Roll. A cozy, modern space in Karen that attracts both locals and expats.
👉 Perfect for: Creative sushi lovers.
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4. EZO Restaurant – Westlands
EZO brands itself as “Neo-Japanese” with a fusion of traditional flavors and modern presentation. It’s stylish, trendy, and popular with Nairobi’s younger crowd.
👉 Perfect for: Foodies who love Japanese fusion.
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5. Furusato Japanese Restaurant – Parklands
Furusato has been serving Japanese cuisine in Nairobi for years and remains a reliable choice. A wide menu includes sushi, sashimi, and teriyaki dishes.
👉 Perfect for: A classic Japanese restaurant experience.
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🥢 Final Thoughts
From high-end dining to casual comfort food, Nairobi’s Japanese restaurants are thriving. While each has something unique to offer, ChiQ Japanese Restaurant clearly stands out as the most authentic, affordable, and satisfying option, bringing the real taste of Japan to Nairobi at unbeatable value.
