Unlike the lively buzz of Bali’s western coast, Sanur offers a refined seaside atmosphere where gentle sunrises meet calm waters and quiet, leafy streets. Sanur is also home to several standout venues often regarded as the best Japanese restaurant Sanur has to offer, combining precision, atmosphere, and authentic flavors.
For those seeking quality Japanese cuisine, the town presents a thoughtful mix of tradition and modern dining. From carefully crafted sushi to seasonal dishes, each experience highlights the precision, freshness, and balance of the Japanese restaurant in Sanur. Here are some recommended places to visit for Japanese food in Bali.
Top Japanese Restaurants in Sanur You Must Try
When it comes to finding the best Japanese restaurant, the options are curated to provide more than just a meal. These establishments focus on the art of the experience, ensuring that every guest feels the harmony and precision inherent in authentic cuisine.
Tsune Sanur
Tsune Sanur is a true gem for those seeking an authentic Japanese restaurant in Bali, where every guest is transported to a space where minimalism meets luxury from the moment you step inside. The ambiance is thoughtfully designed to be calm and inviting, mirroring the gentle spirit of Sanur itself.
At Tsune, the focus is on the purity of flavor. The chefs prioritize seasonal ingredients, ensuring that every slice of sashimi and every hand-pressed piece of sushi is of the highest quality.
It also offers a unique experience, Sushi by The River, a special Sushi Canoe plate for only IDR25,000+ per plate. For those who love cooking, you can also experience the Sushi Crafting Artistry, making sushi with an ocean view,
It is widely regarded as a top contender for the best Japanese restaurant in Sanur because of its commitment to traditional techniques. Guests can expect a warm welcome and a dining rhythm that allows for deep conversation and true appreciation of the food. It is the perfect place for a romantic evening or a quiet celebratory dinner with close friends.
Other Japanese Restaurants Outside of Sanur
While Sanur holds its own, Bali’s obsession with high-end Japanese dining extends to other iconic neighborhoods. If your travels take you beyond the eastern coast, these sister locations and renowned eateries offer spectacular variations of the Japanese culinary arts.
1. Tsune Uluwatu
Perched near the dramatic cliffs of the south, Tsune Uluwatu brings the same dedication to quality found in Sanur but with a rugged and coastal edge. The experience here feels elevated, literally and figuratively.
Guests love to spend their dinner here, accompanied by the dramatic sunset of Uluwatu. After a day of exploring the limestone cliffs or watching the surfers at Padang Padang, retreating to Tsune Uluwatu for authentic Japanese cuisine is a dream.
The breeze from the Indian Ocean complements the freshness of the seafood, making it a “must-visit” for those exploring the Bukit Peninsula. Some recommended menu items here are Sushi Box, including spicy otoro, crab tempura, salmon mentai, and a wide selection of wagyu.
2. Shichirin Canggu
In the heart of the island’s trendiest district, Shichirin Canggu offers a vibrant take on the Japanese dining experience. This restaurant specializes in the art of the Konro grill, harmonizing Teppanyaki, Gyukatsu, and Izakaya styles under one roof.
The star of the Canggu menu is the Gyu Katsu Set, featuring 200g of breaded Santuri Wagyu beef that you can sear to your liking. Another highlight is the Hibachi Enoki Maki, a savory combination of enoki mushrooms wrapped in sliced pork and grilled with yakiniku sauce.
For sushi enthusiasts, the Aburi Almond Roll provides a delightful crunch with its almond ground topping and glazed mentai sauce. It is a social hub where the food is as much a performance as it is a meal.
3. Shichirin Seminyak
Seminyak is synonymous with luxury, and Shichirin Seminyak fits perfectly into this upscale landscape. This location is ideal for those who want a sophisticated night out.
The interior design is sleek and modern, providing a stunning backdrop for a menu that celebrates fire and flavor. It caters to everyone, including a fan of grilled skewers or delicate appetizers, the precision of the chefs here ensures that every bite is memorable.
The menu at Shichirin Seminyak is a masterclass in balance. Guests are often drawn to the Gyu Katsu Set, featuring 200g of breaded Santuri Wagyu beef served with a trio of signature sauces. For those who enjoy the theater of Teppanyaki, the Salmon Teriyaki and Beef Short Ribs with truffle mushroom puree are absolute standouts.
Sushi lovers should not miss the Aburi Almond Roll, a creative combination of salmon sashimi and prawn tempura with a glazed mentai sauce, or the decadent Special Otoro Maki infused with truffle oil.
4. Shichirin Ubud
Deep in the lush highlands, Shichirin Ubud offers a unique contrast to the coastal dining scene. Surrounded by greenery and the spiritual energy of Ubud, this restaurant provides a soulful way to enjoy Japanese food that Sanur enthusiasts would recognize for its quality.
The focus here is on the connection between nature and nourishment. Dining at Shichirin Ubud feels like a private retreat, where the warmth of the grill provides a cozy balance to the cool mountain air.
The culinary highlights here focus on the “Fiery Blazing” experience. The Fiery Blazing Sushi is a visual and flavorful feast, featuring torched fresh salmon, Hokkaido scallops, and ikura drizzled with yuzu juice. If you prefer raw delicacies, the Raw Hamachi with green grapes and truffle oil offers a refreshing and sophisticated palate cleanser.
The Beef Tartare, served in a crispy taco shell with miso caramel and burnt gochujang, perfectly captures the restaurant’s ability to blend traditional Japanese roots with modern, bold textures.
5. Kojin Japanese Restaurant
Kojin is a masterpiece of Teppanyaki and Irori, located in the tranquil outskirts of Ubud, and it offers an “Edomae” style experience that is rare to find. The interaction between the chef and the guest is the heartbeat of Kojin.
Watching the chef’s nimble hands prepare each course right in front of you adds a layer of theater to your meal. It is an essential stop for anyone seeking an authentic Japanese restaurant in Bali that prioritizes the “Chef’s Choice” philosophy.
You can enjoy a wide array of assorted sashimi, nigiri, and a signature cooked dish, often the highly-praised Creamy Truffle Beef or Black Cod with Miso Shoyu. For a singular indulgence, the Kojin Dragon Roll is a best-seller, packed with prawn tempura and topped with creamy avocado and teriyaki sauce.
The Irori style slow-cooked dishes also provide a nostalgic warmth, making it one of the most comprehensive Japanese dining spots on the island.
6. Norii Ubud
Norii brings a contemporary and playful spirit to Japanese dining. Known for its Yakitori and creative cocktails, it is a place where tradition is respected, but innovation is celebrated. The space is vibrant and full of character, making it a favorite for groups who want to share a variety of plates.
The smoky flavors of the grill, combined with locally sourced ingredients, create a fusion that is uniquely Balinese yet stays true to its Japanese roots. The star of the show at Norii is the Robatayaki Beef, where wagyu strip loin is grilled to perfection alongside charred vegetables and finished with a luscious yakiniku sauce.
Their Yakitori selection is extensive, featuring items like Grilled Chicken Oyster Skewers and Stuffed Chicken Wings. For something truly unique, the Norii Burger offers a complex blend of flavors that challenges and delights the senses.
Pair these savory bites with a signature Asian Sparkler or a Maehama cocktail for a refreshing finish to your tropical evening.
Menu Expectations at Japanese Restaurants in Sanur
When you visit the best Japanese restaurant in Sanur, your palate should be prepared for a journey. The menus in this region are often divided into several key experiences:
- Sashimi and Sushi
This is the foundation of sushi in Sanur. Expect “Moro” or “Omakase” platters where the chef selects the freshest catch of the day, often including tuna, salmon, and locally sourced snapper. - The Art of Agemono
Light, crispy tempura is a staple. The batter should be airy and translucent, highlighting the natural sweetness of prawns and seasonal vegetables. - Premium Proteins
Many top-tier spots offer A5 Wagyu beef. Whether served as “Ishiyaki” (on a hot stone) or via Teppanyaki, the melt-in-your-mouth texture is a hallmark of Japanese dining experience luxury. - Ramen and Udon
For a more comforting meal, Sanur offers exquisite noodle dishes. The broths are often simmered for hours to achieve a rich, umami depth that satisfies the soul. - Japanese Desserts
Finish your meal with delicate Matcha-infused treats, Mochi, or black sesame ice cream to cleanse the palate.
Tips for Dining at Japanese Restaurants in Sanur
To ensure you have the most seamless and enjoyable evening, keep these tips in mind:
- Make a Reservation
The best Japanese restaurants in Sanur locations are often intimate and popular. Booking a table at least a day in advance is highly recommended, especially during sunset hours. - Respect the Omakase
If you are dining at a high-end sushi bar, consider the Omakase (Chef’s Choice). It allows the chef to showcase their best skills and the freshest ingredients available that day. - Dress the Part
While Sanur is generally relaxed, Japanese dining often calls for “Smart Casual” attire. It honors the effort the kitchen puts into the presentation of the food. - Ask About Daily Specials
Bali’s culinary scene is rich and varied. Always ask if there is a “Catch of the Day” that isn’t on the regular menu. - Pair with Sake
Enhance your authentic Japanese cuisine by asking for a sake pairing. Many restaurants in Sanur have a curated selection ranging from dry to sweet to complement your specific dishes.
Conclusion
Finding the best Japanese restaurant in Sanur is about more than satisfying a craving; it is an immersion into a culture of precision and incredible flavor that defines the Japanese dining experience. From the floating sushi at Tsune Sanur to the fiery grills of Shichirin, the variety of Japanese food in Bali ensures every traveler finds a sophisticated table that feels like home. For more expert insights, visit The Wonderspace, your ultimate guide in Bali for families, couples, and groups seeking luxury and hidden gems.
