If you are looking for the best Japanese restaurants in Southampton, you are in the right place. Whether you are craving freshly prepared sushi, comforting ramen, crispy katsu curry or authentic Japanese small plates, Southampton has an excellent choice of independent restaurants and popular favourites serving traditional Japanese cuisine.
This guide features the best Japanese restaurants in Southampton, from long-established sushi restaurants in Bedford Place to modern ramen bars in the City Centre and contemporary Japanese fusion restaurants in Bevois Valley. Every restaurant featured has built a strong reputation for quality food, welcoming service and consistently positive customer reviews.
How This Guide Was Put Together
This guide is based on extensive research across public reviews, local recommendations and the overall reputation of each restaurant. Rather than relying on a single opinion, I looked for places that consistently receive positive feedback for their food quality, service, atmosphere and value for money.
When choosing the best Japanese restaurants in Southampton, I considered:
- Food quality – Fresh ingredients, authentic Japanese cooking and consistency across the menu.
- Atmosphere – Whether the restaurant provides a memorable setting for date nights, family meals or casual dining.
- Service – Friendly, attentive staff and consistently positive customer experiences.
- Value for money – The overall dining experience compared with the price.
- Overall reputation – Consistently positive customer feedback across multiple trusted platforms.
No restaurant has paid to be included in this guide.
12 Best Japanese Restaurants in Southampton
From authentic sushi restaurants and traditional ramen bars to modern Japanese fusion dining and casual takeaway favourites, these are the Japanese restaurants in Southampton that are worth visiting. Click on any restaurant name below for directions on Google Maps.
1. Sakura, Bedford Place
Sakura is one of the best Japanese restaurants in Southampton, serving authentic Japanese cuisine in the heart of Bedford Place. Well known for its freshly prepared sushi, comforting ramen and welcoming atmosphere, this long-established independent restaurant has become a favourite with locals looking for a genuine taste of Japan.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
5.0/5.0
Location: Bedford Place
Price: Mid-range (£10 to £20 for most mains)
Best for: Authentic sushi and ramen
Must try: Tonkotsu Ramen
One of the best Japanese restaurants in Southampton. Sakura combines authentic Japanese cooking, friendly service and consistently excellent food, making it a favourite for both first-time visitors and regular customers.
Why Visit Sakura?
Sakura serves a wide range of traditional Japanese dishes, including freshly prepared sushi, sashimi, ramen, donburi and classic starters. Everything is made using quality ingredients, with generous portions and authentic flavours that have helped build its excellent reputation.
Whether you are planning a relaxed lunch or an evening meal with family and friends, Sakura offers one of Southampton’s most authentic Japanese dining experiences.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Tonkotsu Ramen is one of the restaurant’s most popular dishes.
- Excellent choice for authentic sushi.
- Friendly independent restaurant with attentive service.
- Suitable for couples, families and groups.
- Booking is recommended during busy evenings.
2. Hokkaido Japanese & Ramen, Above Bar
Hokkaido Japanese & Ramen is one of the best Japanese restaurants in Southampton for authentic ramen, sushi and Japanese small plates. Conveniently located on Above Bar Street, it combines modern surroundings with traditional Japanese flavours to create one of the city’s most popular dining destinations.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
4.9/5.0
Location: Above Bar Street
Price: Mid-range (£12 to £22 for most mains)
Best for: Authentic ramen
Must try: Miso Ramen
Hokkaido Japanese & Ramen consistently delivers excellent Japanese food, generous portions and one of the best ramen experiences in Southampton.
Why Visit Hokkaido Japanese & Ramen?
Hokkaido Japanese & Ramen specialises in freshly prepared ramen, sushi rolls, rice bowls and traditional Japanese favourites. Rich broths, fresh ingredients and carefully prepared dishes have helped make it one of the city’s most highly rated Japanese restaurants.
Its central location makes it an excellent choice before shopping, after work or for a relaxed evening meal in Southampton city centre.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Miso Ramen is one of the restaurant’s signature dishes.
- Excellent choice for ramen lovers.
- Freshly prepared sushi and Japanese small plates.
- Ideal for lunch or dinner.
- One of Southampton’s best Japanese restaurants.
3. Zento Sushi, Hanover Buildings
Zento Sushi is one of the best Japanese restaurants in Southampton for freshly prepared sushi and great value Japanese takeaway. Located in Hanover Buildings, it is well known for its wide menu, generous portions and quick service, making it a popular choice for both lunch and dinner.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
4.9/5.0
Location: Hanover Buildings
Price: Affordable (£8 to £18 for most dishes)
Best for: Sushi and takeaway
Must try: Salmon Avocado Maki
One of the best Japanese restaurants in Southampton for fresh sushi, generous portions and excellent value. Zento Sushi is a fantastic choice whether you are eating in or ordering takeaway.
Why Visit Zento Sushi?
Zento Sushi offers an extensive menu of freshly prepared sushi, nigiri, sashimi, rice bowls and Japanese starters. The combination of quality ingredients, generous portions and fast service has helped it build a loyal following among local diners.
Its convenient city centre location makes it ideal for a quick lunch, takeaway or relaxed evening meal.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Salmon Avocado Maki is one of the restaurant’s most popular dishes.
- Excellent value for freshly prepared sushi.
- Fast takeaway service.
- Large menu with plenty of choice.
- Perfect for lunch in the city centre.
4. Woosabi, Bevois Valley
Woosabi is one of the most unique Japanese restaurants in Southampton, combining Japanese-inspired street food with modern Asian fusion dishes in a relaxed and vibrant setting. Located in Bevois Valley, it is a popular choice for casual dining, cocktails and evenings with friends.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.8/5.0
Location: Bevois Valley
Price: Mid-range (£12 to £20 for most mains)
Best for: Japanese fusion and bao buns
Must try: Pork Bao Buns
Woosabi offers a fun and modern take on Japanese-inspired street food, making it one of Southampton’s best places for casual dining and Asian fusion cuisine.
Why Visit Woosabi?
Woosabi serves a creative menu featuring bao buns, katsu curries, rice bowls, Japanese-inspired small plates and Asian fusion favourites. The relaxed atmosphere and varied menu make it a popular destination for groups, couples and students alike.
If you are looking for something a little different from traditional Japanese dining, Woosabi is well worth a visit.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Pork Bao Buns are one of the restaurant’s signature dishes.
- Excellent cocktails and drinks menu.
- Great for casual dining and groups.
- Plenty of vegetarian and vegan options.
- A popular choice in Bevois Valley.
5. Kokoro, Above Bar
Kokoro is one of the best Japanese restaurants in Southampton for affordable Japanese food, serving generous portions of katsu curry, rice bowls, noodles and freshly prepared sushi. Located on Above Bar Street, it is a popular choice for shoppers, office workers and anyone looking for a quick, satisfying meal.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.8/5.0
Location: Above Bar Street
Price: Affordable (£8 to £15 for most mains)
Best for: Katsu curry and rice bowls
Must try: Chicken Katsu Curry
Kokoro offers fantastic value for money, generous portions and consistently good food, making it one of Southampton’s most popular Japanese restaurants for casual dining.
Why Visit Kokoro?
Kokoro specialises in freshly prepared Japanese comfort food, including katsu curries, rice bowls, noodles and sushi. Fast service, affordable prices and generous portions have made it a favourite with local diners looking for a quick but satisfying meal.
Its central location also makes it a convenient stop during a shopping trip or lunch break.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Chicken Katsu Curry is one of the restaurant’s best-selling dishes.
- Excellent value for money.
- Perfect for a quick lunch.
- Fresh sushi is prepared daily.
- Popular with shoppers and office workers.
Why Southampton is Great for Japanese Food
Southampton has an excellent selection of Japanese restaurants, ranging from authentic sushi bars and traditional ramen restaurants to modern Japanese fusion venues and casual takeaway favourites. Whether you are looking for freshly prepared sashimi, comforting ramen or crispy katsu curry, there is something to suit every taste and budget across the city.
6. Roppongi, Commercial Road
Roppongi is one of the best Japanese restaurants in Southampton for beautifully presented sushi, bento boxes and traditional Japanese dishes. Located on Commercial Road, this stylish independent restaurant has earned an excellent reputation for quality ingredients and attentive service.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.7/5.0
Location: Commercial Road
Price: Mid-range (£15 to £28 for most mains)
Best for: Bento boxes and sushi
Must try: Deluxe Bento Box
Roppongi combines authentic Japanese flavours with beautifully presented dishes, making it one of Southampton’s best restaurants for a relaxed lunch or evening meal.
Why Visit Roppongi?
Roppongi serves a varied menu featuring sushi, sashimi, bento boxes, ramen and Japanese rice dishes. The restaurant is particularly well known for its carefully prepared presentation, fresh ingredients and welcoming atmosphere.
Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a casual meal, Roppongi consistently delivers one of Southampton’s best Japanese dining experiences.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Deluxe Bento Box is highly recommended.
- Fresh sushi prepared to order.
- Excellent choice for lunch or dinner.
- Ideal for couples and small groups.
- Booking is recommended during weekends.
7. Yuri Cottage, Commercial Road
Yuri Cottage is one of the best Japanese restaurants in Southampton for authentic home-style Japanese cooking. Located on Commercial Road, this independent restaurant is known for its comforting noodle dishes, freshly prepared donburi and welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular choice with locals and visitors alike.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.7/5.0
Location: Commercial Road
Price: Affordable (£11 to £15 for most mains)
Best for: Traditional Japanese comfort food
Must try: Seafood Ramen
Yuri Cottage offers authentic Japanese home cooking in a relaxed setting, making it one of Southampton’s best places for comforting ramen, donburi and freshly prepared dumplings.
Why Visit Yuri Cottage?
Yuri Cottage specialises in traditional Japanese comfort food, serving ramen, donburi, gyoza and other classic dishes prepared using fresh ingredients. Its relaxed atmosphere and generous portions have helped it build an excellent reputation among local diners.
Whether you are looking for a quick lunch or a relaxed evening meal, Yuri Cottage delivers authentic Japanese flavours at great value.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Seafood Ramen is one of the restaurant’s signature dishes.
- Freshly prepared gyoza are well worth ordering.
- Excellent value for authentic Japanese food.
- Relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
- Ideal for lunch or casual evening dining.
8. Shokudo Southampton, Portswood
Shokudo Southampton is a popular independent Japanese restaurant in Southampton, serving authentic ramen, katsu curries and Japanese rice dishes in the heart of Portswood. Its generous portions, friendly service and affordable prices make it a favourite with students and local residents.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.6/5.0
Location: Portswood
Price: Affordable (£10 to £15 for most mains)
Best for: Ramen and katsu curry
Must try: Chicken Katsu Curry
Shokudo Southampton serves authentic Japanese comfort food with generous portions and excellent value, making it one of the best Japanese restaurants in Portswood.
Why Visit Shokudo Southampton?
Shokudo Southampton offers a menu of freshly prepared ramen, rice bowls and traditional Japanese favourites, all cooked to order using quality ingredients. Its relaxed atmosphere and friendly service make it a great choice for casual dining.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Chicken Katsu Curry is a customer favourite.
- Excellent value for money.
- Popular with students and local residents.
- Freshly cooked to order.
- Ideal for casual lunches and dinners.
9. Coishi, Above Bar
Coishi is one of the best Japanese restaurants in Southampton for freshly prepared sushi, katsu curries and Japanese street food. Conveniently located on Above Bar Street, it is a popular choice for shoppers, office workers and anyone looking for authentic Japanese food served quickly.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.6/5.0
Location: Above Bar Street
Price: Affordable (£8 to £16 for most dishes)
Best for: Sushi and katsu curry
Must try: Salmon Avocado Roll
Coishi combines fresh ingredients, generous portions and excellent value, making it one of Southampton’s most popular Japanese restaurants for casual dining and takeaway.
Why Visit Coishi?
Coishi serves a varied menu featuring sushi, katsu curries, rice bowls and Japanese street food favourites. Fast service and freshly prepared food have made it a reliable choice for lunch, dinner or takeaway in the city centre.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Salmon Avocado Roll is one of the restaurant’s most popular dishes.
- Excellent choice for takeaway.
- Fresh sushi prepared daily.
- Great value for money.
- Convenient city centre location.
10. Nara, Bedford Place
Nara is one of the best Japanese restaurants in Southampton, offering authentic sushi, tempura and traditional Japanese dishes in an elegant setting. Located in Bedford Place, it has built an excellent reputation for quality ingredients, beautifully presented food and attentive service.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.5/5.0
Location: Bedford Place
Price: Mid-range (£15 to £28 for most mains)
Best for: Sushi and special occasions
Must try: Prawn Tempura
Nara combines authentic Japanese flavours with elegant presentation, making it an excellent choice for date nights, celebrations and relaxed evening meals.
Why Visit Nara?
Nara offers a carefully prepared menu of sushi, sashimi, tempura and grilled Japanese favourites using fresh, quality ingredients. Its welcoming atmosphere and consistently high standards have made it a favourite with Southampton diners.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Prawn Tempura is highly recommended.
- Excellent choice for date nights.
- Fresh sushi prepared to order.
- Friendly and attentive service.
- Booking is recommended at weekends.
11. Mi Rice, Commercial Road
Mi Rice is one of the best Japanese restaurants in Southampton for affordable Japanese and Asian-inspired dishes. Located on Commercial Road, it has become a popular choice for quick lunches, takeaway meals and relaxed dinners thanks to its varied menu and generous portions.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.4/5.0
Location: Commercial Road
Price: Affordable (£9 to £15 for most mains)
Best for: Japanese takeaway and noodle dishes
Must try: Teriyaki Chicken Rice
Mi Rice offers freshly prepared Japanese favourites at affordable prices, making it a reliable choice for takeaway or a quick meal in Southampton city centre.
Why Visit Mi Rice?
Mi Rice serves a varied menu that includes noodle dishes, rice bowls, teriyaki favourites and Japanese-inspired meals prepared to order. Fast service, generous portions and good value have made it a popular option for both locals and visitors.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Teriyaki Chicken Rice is one of the restaurant’s most popular dishes.
- Great value for money.
- Ideal for takeaway or a quick lunch.
- Generous portion sizes.
- Convenient city centre location.
12. YO! Southampton, Westquay
YO! Southampton is one of the most recognisable Japanese restaurants in Southampton, offering a fun conveyor belt dining experience alongside freshly prepared sushi, hot Japanese dishes and plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. Located in Westquay, it is a popular choice for families, shoppers and casual dining.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.4/5.0
Location: Westquay
Price: Mid-range (£12 to £25 per person)
Best for: Conveyor belt sushi
Must try: Salmon Nigiri
YO! Southampton offers a fun and relaxed Japanese dining experience with freshly prepared sushi and a varied menu, making it a great choice for families and first-time visitors.
Why Visit YO! Southampton?
YO! Southampton serves a wide selection of sushi, sashimi, ramen, katsu curry and Japanese small plates. The conveyor belt concept adds something different to the dining experience, while the varied menu ensures there is something for everyone.
Whether you are stopping for lunch during a shopping trip or enjoying dinner with family and friends, YO! Southampton remains one of the city’s most popular Japanese restaurants.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Salmon Nigiri is one of the restaurant’s most popular dishes.
- Fun conveyor belt dining experience.
- Great for families and groups.
- Plenty of vegetarian and vegan options.
- Ideal for lunch while shopping at Westquay.
Which Japanese Restaurant in Southampton Should You Choose?
If you are still deciding where to eat, the best Japanese restaurant in Southampton depends on the type of dining experience you are looking for.
For an authentic all-round experience, Sakura is our top recommendation thanks to its traditional Japanese menu, freshly prepared sushi and consistently excellent customer reviews. If ramen is your favourite, Hokkaido Japanese & Ramen is one of the city’s standout destinations, while Zento Sushi is an excellent choice for fresh sushi and takeaway.
If you are after great value, Kokoro, Shokudo Southampton and Mi Rice all offer generous portions at affordable prices. For something a little different, Woosabi combines Japanese-inspired street food with Asian fusion flavours, while YO! Southampton provides a fun conveyor belt dining experience that is ideal for families and first-time visitors.
Whether you are planning a quick lunch, a special occasion or simply craving authentic Japanese food, these restaurants represent some of the very best places to enjoy Japanese cuisine in Southampton.
Fancy Italian Instead?
If Japanese food is not quite what you are craving, explore our guide to the best Italian restaurants in Southampton. From authentic wood-fired pizzas and handmade pasta to family-run trattorias and waterfront dining, it features some of the city’s top places to enjoy Italian cuisine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best Japanese restaurant in Southampton?
Sakura is our top recommendation thanks to its authentic Japanese dishes, freshly prepared sushi and consistently excellent customer reviews. Other highly rated options include Hokkaido Japanese & Ramen, Zento Sushi and Roppongi.
Where can I find authentic sushi in Southampton?
Sakura, Zento Sushi, Roppongi and Nara are all excellent choices for freshly prepared sushi made with quality ingredients.
Which Japanese restaurant is best for ramen?
Hokkaido Japanese & Ramen is one of the best places in Southampton for authentic ramen, while Yuri Cottage and Shokudo Southampton also serve excellent noodle dishes.
Are there affordable Japanese restaurants in Southampton?
Yes. Kokoro, Mi Rice, Shokudo Southampton and Coishi all offer affordable Japanese meals without compromising on quality.
Which Japanese restaurant is best for families?
YO! Southampton, Sakura and Hokkaido Japanese & Ramen are all popular choices for families thanks to their varied menus and welcoming atmosphere.
Should I book a Japanese restaurant in Southampton?
Booking is recommended for popular independent restaurants such as Sakura, Roppongi, Nara and Hokkaido Japanese & Ramen, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings.
