Best Japanese restaurants in Paris: Fresh sushi, sashimi, unagi, udon and more

There's no stopping the formidable clout of Japanese grub — wherever you may be in the world. We're talking mouthwatering bowls of ramen, udon, donburis and not forgetting the raw counterparts of salmon, plushy tuna bellies and more. If you ever find yourself craving for the aforementioned while in Paris, head to these top spots. Word on the street, that these are where the style cognescenti flock to when fashion week rolls around. 

Hakata Choten

Establishing itself as the first tonkotsu ramen shop in Paris, Hakata Choten is known for their meaty broth that is full of umami flavour derived from slow cooking pork bones for over 24 hours. Ramen is served in "Aritayaki" famous porcelain for the ultimate Japanese experience. Give their Ajitama Tonkotsu ramen Noir a shot which features a dark garlic infusion broth topped with chasu pork and a soft boiled egg. Apart from their tonkotsu ramen, gyozas are also a favourite for their thin skins filled with delicate, flavourful fillings.

53 Rue des Petits Champs, 75001 Paris, Tel: +33 140209888
Opening hours: (Mon-Sun) 12pm-3pm, 6pm-10pm

Sanukiya

Expect quick and satisfying Japanese fixes from this small udon and rice bowl shop. Featuring all kinds of udon noodles that's freshly made on the spot with flour imported from Japan, it is little wonder why Sanukiya is a hit with locals and tourists alike. Customers can choose between having their udon noodles in hot soup, drenched with sauce or a cold sauce to dip in. 

9 Rue d'Argenteuil, 75001 Paris, Tel: +33 142605261
Opening hours: (Mon-Sun) 11:30am-10pm

Udon Jubey

To start your experience at Udon Jubey, pick a flavour of broth (beef curry, prawn tempura, pork or soya) and decide between hot or cold. Noodles are served either inside the broth or separately. Their signature udon — Jubey Udon, has a refreshing broth made from soy milk and topped with Chinese cabbage, soy paste, thin slices of pork, onions and chives. Greedy for sides? Give their endamame and omelette plates a go.

39 Rue Sainte-Anne, 75001 Paris, Tel: +33 140159254
Opening hours: (Mon-Sun) 11:30am-9:45pm

Nodaiwa Unagi

This unagi joint has been in Paris since 1996; standing as an extension of the renowned Nodaiwa name in Tokyo. The specialty eels are prepared in the most authentic way —essentially grilled with a longstanding recipe that has outlasted generations. It's hard to beat out traditions when they taste this good. 

272 Rue Saint Honoré, 75001 Paris, Tel: +33 142860342
Opening hours: 12pm-2.30pm, 7pm-10pm

Le Bar a Sushi Azumi

We'd like to tout this 20 seater sushi bar as an education (especially for Parisian diners) on the multi-dimensional wonders of Japanese cuisine. You'll find bountiful chirashi bowls, makis and fresh tuna at the ready — so round up enough people just so you can order a delightful spread. 

55 boulevard des Batignolles, 75008 Paris, Tel: +33 145224355
Opening hours: (Tues-Sat) 12pm-2.30pm, 7.30pm-10pm