10 Most Authentic Japanese Restaurants in Paris
Photo by Mohamed-Khaled Ramoly│courtesy of Haikara
Over the years, the essence of Japan has found its way into Paris’ culinary world. From the 1960s and 70s, when the first Japanese eateries quietly opened their doors to cater to homesick expats, to today, where Japanese cuisine reigns supreme alongside French classics, the transformation has been nothing short of remarkable.
As Paris evolved, so too did its love affair with Japan, especially in districts like the 1st and 2nd arrondissements, where Rue Sainte-Anne earned its moniker, Little Tokyo. Here, streets teem with noodle shops, sushi bars, and izakayas, their flavors transporting both locals and tourists thousands of miles across the globe.
In the quest for authentic Japanese cuisine, we curated ten restaurants in Paris that will transport you to the heart of Japan’s food culture. Whether you’re savoring a comforting bowl of udon, indulging in delicate tempura, or enjoying a rich, savory ramen, each of these spots offers an experience that captures the essence of Japanese flavors.
1. Sanukiya
Specialty: Traditional udon
Address: 9 Rue d'Argenteuil, 75001 Paris
Sanukiya, a cozy Japanese spot near the Louvre, is a go-to for udon lovers in Paris. Known for its hand-pulled noodles, served both hot and cold, the restaurant draws long lines, especially during peak hours. Popular dishes include udon bowls paired with crispy shrimp tempura, flavorful pork, or fresh vegetables. Alongside udon, they offer tasty side dishes like karaage (fried chicken) and tempura. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly service make it a favorite for anyone craving authentic Japanese comfort food in the city.
Courtesy of Sanukiya
2. Haikara
Specialty: Tempura, tonkatsu, and donburi
Address: 82 Rue de la Folie Méricourt, 75011 Paris
Haikara is an exceptional Japanese izakaya nestled in Paris’ 11th arrondissement, blending traditional flavors with modern twists. By day, it offers comforting donburi rice bowls piled high with fresh meats, fish, and vegetables. At night, it transforms into a lively spot serving Japanese small plates and expertly fried dishes. The menu highlights include golden karaage chicken, crispy tonkatsu pork, and creative bites like sea bream tempura topped with salmon roe. Founded by chef Sho Miyashita and his team, Haikara adds a playful edge to Japanese cuisine, incorporating elements like Dorito-breaded pork cutlets and junk-food-inspired sauces
3. Totto
Specialty: Nigiri sushi and sashimi
Adress: 6 Rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris
Totto, located in the Marché d’Aligre, is a must-visit for sushi lovers. Helmed by chefs Nanyo Kurihashi and Izumi Terutaka, Totto specializes in ultra-fresh, high-quality sushi and nigiri crafted with precision. The minimalist yet cozy setting complements the focus on the food, offering a serene escape from the city. With reasonably priced menus that feature omakase options, alongside a wide selection of sakes and natural wines, be sure to book in advance, as this place tends to fill up fast. Totto also offers heartwarming dishes like slow-braised pork belly (kakuni) and creative desserts like matcha bavarois.
4. Hakata Choten
Specialty: Tonkotsu ramen and gyoza
Address: 53 Rue des Petits Champs, 75001 Paris
Hakata Choten is a ramen lover’s dream right in the heart of Paris. This spot draws in tonkotsu ramen fans with its rich, pork-bone broth that’s simmered for over 24 hours, packing a serious umami punch. The noodles are perfectly tender, the pork melts in your mouth, and the egg? It’s got that ideal oozy yolk. Don’t skip the gyoza either—crispy and flavorful, they’re made to be dunked in the sauce and go perfectly with a steaming bowl of ramen.
courtesy of Hakata Choten
5. Kunitoraya
Specialty: Handcrafted udon noodles
Address: 1 Rue Villédo, 75001 Paris
Kunitoraya, located in the heart of Paris’ Japanese quarter near Rue Sainte-Anne, is a must-visit for udon lovers. This chic, yet casual restaurant combines traditional Japanese flavors with a hint of Parisian bistro charm. The star of the menu is its handmade udon—thick, chewy noodles served hot or cold in flavorful broths, often accompanied by tempura, pork, or vegetables. It’s perfect for a comforting meal. At lunchtime, Kunitoraya offers a selection of small bites like fried chicken or onigiri to complement your udon. By evening, the vibe shifts as diners can indulge in a seven-course tasting menu, ideal for those looking to explore more intricate Japanese dishes.
courtesy of Kunitoraya
6. Sushi B
Specialty: Omakase sushi
Address: 5 Rue Rameau, 75002 Paris
Sushi B is a high-end experience, probaly the most expensive one on this list. With only eight seats, this intimate sushiya is all about precision and elegance. Under the watchful eye of Masayoshi Hanada, each course of the omakase menu feels like a revelation. Whether it’s delicate amberjack sashimi or halibut kissed with soy, every plate is meticulously crafted to perfection. The minimalist setting allows the food to speak—no distractions, just you and the art of sushi.
courtesy of Sushi B
7. Nodaiwa
Specialty: Grilled eel (unagi)
Address: 272 Rue Saint-Honoré, 75001 Paris
A branch of Tokyo’s famous Nodaiwa, this Paris spot focuses on one thing: unagi, or grilled eel. The eel is brushed with a secret sauce, then grilled to perfection—smoky, tender, and full of flavor. Served over fluffy rice, it’s a simple but delicious way to experience one of Japan’s most loved dishes, passed down through generations.
courtesy of Nodaiwa
8. Ennui Udon
Specialty: Handmade udon noodles
Address: 6 Rue de la Renaissance, 75008 Paris
In the chic Triangle d’Or, Ennui Udon offers handmade udon noodles with a modern twist. The Niku udon, with tender slices of beef and shiitake mushrooms swimming in a fragrant dashi broth, stands out as the star of the menu. Though the broth may be light for some, the noodles make up for it, chewy and robust. Start with karaage or marinated cabbage and end with mochi ice cream for a well-rounded meal.
9. Gyoza Bar
Specialty: Pork gyoza
Address: 56 Pass. des Panoramas, 75002 Paris
Gyoza Bar doesn’t try to do everything. It does one thing, and it does it perfectly: gyoza. These dumplings, crispy on one side, juicy on the other, are simplicity at its finest. Tucked away in Passage des Panoramas, the minimalist setting focuses all attention on the food. Fast, affordable, and undeniably delicious, it’s a no-brainer for anyone craving the perfect bite.
10. Ryo
Specialty: Sushi
Address: 7 Rue des Moulins, 75001 Paris
A stone’s throw from Rue Sainte-Anne, Ryo hides in plain sight, offering sushi that is both unassuming and unforgettable. Chef Toyofumi Ôzuru’s knife skills shine as he slices through fresh salmon, tuna, and amberjack, while signature dishes like miso-glazed eggplant and green tea soba noodles round out the menu. For those on the go, Ryo’s bento boxes and lunchtime sushi sets provide a quick yet luxurious Japanese feast.
This curated selection will set you up for an authentic and immersive Japanese food experience in Paris.
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