Spend the late evening at these Japanese restaurants in KL that are great for gathering. No matter big or small.

Japanese food always becomes the food people opt for. Whether for a romantic date night or a formal office gathering. There is something about Japanese gastronomy that just reels us into enjoying them once in a while. Japanese restaurants in KL has increased due to their popularity. It’s sophisticated, appetizing and succulent. From their fresh sashimi to smoky yakitori. It wouldn’t hurt to explore your taste buds with other types of food besides sushi or tempura. Or unless you’re allergic, we suggest you seek advice from your doctor first!

If you wonder how real Japan taste like, there are a list of Japanese restaurants that are worth checking out in Kuala Lumpur:

1. Maruki Ramen – The Linc, KL (Halal)

Springy noodles, thick broth and most importantly a big bowl full of flavor is what Maruki Ramen can offer. The dishes are all made fresh on the spot, led by their own Sapporo-born chef. Muslims are welcomed to this place as the ingredients used are Halal. Not a big fan of ramen? No problem. They have other dishes like wagyu don and gyoza that you can try. To reach here is not a problem as there is an LRT near to it (LRT Ampang Park). Even by car, getting a parking spot is also easy-peasy. This is one of the Japanese restaurants in KL that you HAVE to go and try. 

2. Susanoo – OUG, Kuala Lumpur

Named after the Uchiha clan’s ability, Susanoo is a Naruto-themed yakitori bar in Kuala Lumpur. This spot is a must, especially for Naruto fans. It doesn’t matter if you’re a manga reader or just someone who enjoys anime. One special thing about Susanoo is that when you lepak with your friends, you put aside your differences. This convivial izakaya is hidden on the second floor. So make sure to look out for a side-alley entrance illustrated with the humanoid avatar (Susanoo). 

3. Mori Kohi – Jalan Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur

This Muji-inspired spot was recently opened in a bungalow that houses five concepts, Midorie. Mori Kohi is a yoshoku-inspired cafe. They serve Western-influenced Japanese meals daily from 10am to 10pm. The nature-themed cafe is also a great spot for pictures since there is good natural lighting and lots of greenery. Even if you don’t feel like having a big meal, you can enjoy the desserts and coffee. Such as affogato and matcha latte. 

4. Makoto Japanese Restaurant – Desa Sri Hartamas, Kuala Lumpur

Makoto Japanese Restaurant is the ultimate hotspot for unagi enthusiasts. The executive chef, Otani Shinichiro-san, runs Makoto remotely from Tokyo. This is because he owns a family-owned authentic unagi omakase restaurant in the capital of Japan. Once in a while, he travels to Kuala Lumpur just to serve customers by reservation. Since the restaurant relies on live unagi, they are also able to serve other limited-quantity parts of the eel. This is a must, especially to those Japanese food lovers.

5. Kuro Teppanyaki – Bandar Sunway, Subang Jaya (Halal)

If you are looking for a spot where you can do some ‘activity’ with your friends, try out Kuro Teppanyaki. This Halal teppanyaki spot in Sunway serves a wide variety of dishes. Hokkaido scallops, Wagyu meat, lamb and chicken, it can be a bit hard to decide which one to feast on. If your budget allows, you can upgrade to the premium set where unlimited refills of Haagen-Dazs ice cream awaits! Another great place with great Japanese food.