Asian cuisine is huge in Newcastle and everyone has their go-to spot. Once you’ve dubbed somewhere your favourite restaurant, we know how easy it is to avoid that teeny, tiny voice within telling you to branch out again. Here’s the push you didn’t know you needed into the deep sea of Japanese food in Newcastle.

Nagisa

From 5-course tasting banquets with wine to match to small dishes and cocktails, Nagisa’s contemporary interpretation of traditional Japanese cuisine is the perfect venue for lunch with mates by the harbour or a romantic date night. Located on Honeysuckle’s foreshore, Nagisa’s extensive food and drink menus have been tirelessly tweaked and twisted into the ideal Japanese dining experience with a sprinkle of modern edge. Whether you’re dining in the fresh, social atmosphere of the outdoor deck, inside in the intimate mood lighting or opt to be front and centre at the Teppanyaki bar, Nagisa is the type of dining experience you’ll be talking about for days.

Where: 1 Honeysuckle Dr, Newcastle

Asadon

Amongst the hustle and bustle of Newcastle’s CBD, you’ll find a quaint stop for a quick bite of authentic Japanese cuisine; Asadon. There’s something about this Japanese soul food that leaves your spirit feeling a little lighter on departure. The curries, sushi, rice and noodle dishes have a certain authentic flair to them that have led to a string of Novocastrians and visitors dubbing Asadon the best Japanese restaurant in Newcastle –maybe it’s time to add yourself to that list!

Where: 179 King Street, Newcastle

Susuru

Newcastle’s first ramen and gyoza restaurant, Susuru, is brought to you by aforementioned Nagisa and further carries the values of authentic Japanese cuisine with a modern twist. The white and yellow fit-out and high-tech gyoza machine give the restaurant an almost futuristic feel and the inventive flavour combinations give Susuru the one-of-a-kind stamp. The new menu is solely based on what their customers love and has been fine-tuned to suit all palates. If you’re on the hunt for perfect bowl of ramen or gyoza like none other, Susuru is your new go-to.

Where: 140 King Street, Newcastle

Kitami

Kitami is the definition of unassuming excellence. Newcastle’s one-stop-shop for both delicious and authentic Japanese cuisine and groceries sits quietly amongst cafés and suburban life on Carrington’s main street. Kitami’s head chef Nobuyuki Aoki prepares a wide selection of tasty, simple meals including dons, curries, bento boxes, sushi and ramen that leave his faithful customers constantly returning for more. Stock up on a range of Japanese groceries like soy sauce, miso and traditional sweets and snacks while you’re there! 

Where: 53 Young Street, Carrington

Sushi Revolution

For a more casual Japanese dining experience in Newcastle, Sushi Revolution has you covered. There’s something about eating directly from a sushi train that transports you straight to Japan and escaping from the business of Darby and Beaumont Street to do so is a welcomed treat. Chefs are always happy to prepare dishes that aren’t visible on the train and will accommodate to all dietary needs.

Where: 97 Darby St, Cooks Hill | 93 Beaumont St, Hamilton

Hokkaiya Japanese Restaurant

Nutritious, delicious, memorable. Three words Hokkaiya uses to describe their humble dining experience. Perfect for a quick stop in for some take away sushi, or a quiet sit down meal, Hokkaiya’s delightful Japanese menu has been carefully curated to present its diners with a heart-warming culinary experience that fits nicely in the realms of authenticity and affordability.

Where: 2/22 Beaumont Street, Hamilton

Fukusui Japanese Restaurant

Located on site at The Esplanade Hotel Warners Bay, Fukusui is a unique, customer inclusive Teppanyaki experience that may leave you on the receiving end of your chef’s performance! Fukusui serves fresh and healthy Japanese cuisine in a fun and memorable fashion. The amazing food and its entertaining preparation will leave the whole family satisfied and amused. 

Where: 588 The Esplanade, Warners Bay

Sushi Koo

This family-run business has been providing Novocastrians with their sushi fix since their original Hunter Street mall opening in 2006. For fast, freshly made sushi and warm Japanese style food Sushi Koo is a must stop.

Where: Marketown and The Junction

Sushi Musa

Sit around the sushi train either for a quick bite or a long lunch of modern, contemporary Japanese cuisine. 

Where: Level 3, The Rooftop, Kotara

If we've missed one of your favourite Japanese restaurants in Newcastle, email us at [email protected]