Nashville, Tennessee, is well known for its hot chicken and vibrant music scene, but did you know it also boasts an impressive selection of Japanese cuisine? Whether you’re craving fresh sushi, steaming bowls of ramen, or an authentic izakaya experience, Music City has plenty of hidden gems that bring a taste of Japan to the South.

From traditional omakase experiences to casual Japanese street food, we’ve rounded up the best Japanese food in Nashville for every craving and budget.

The Catbird Seat – A Luxurious Omakase Experience

📍 1711 Division St, Nashville, TN 37203

For those looking to indulge in an unforgettable omakase experience, The Catbird Seat is the ultimate destination.

This exclusive chef’s counter offers an intimate dining setting where guests can watch skilled chefs prepare each dish with meticulous attention to detail.

While The Catbird Seat is not strictly a Japanese restaurant, its menu often includes exquisite Japanese-inspired dishes, such as wagyu beef tataki, miso-glazed cod, and decadent sushi creations. Due to its high demand, reservations are essential.

👉 Must-Try: Chef’s Omakase Tasting Menu

Samurai Sushi – A Beloved Local Favorite

📍 2209 Elliston Pl, Nashville, TN 37203

Samurai Sushi is one of Nashville’s best-kept secrets when it comes to authentic sushi. Nestled in a cozy, no-frills setting, this restaurant focuses on quality over flashiness. Known for its fresh fish and creative sushi rolls, Samurai Sushi has been a go-to for locals who appreciate high-quality, affordable sushi.

Their Crazy Monkey Roll (eel, avocado, and tempura shrimp) is a fan favorite, but you can also find traditional sashimi and nigiri options that rival higher-end spots.

👉 Must-Try: The Crazy Monkey Roll and Spicy Tuna Roll

Kisser – Modern Japanese Cuisine with a Southern Twist

📍 747 Douglas Ave, Nashville, TN 37207

A relatively new addition to Nashville’s Japanese food scene, Kisser blends Japanese flavors with Southern hospitality.

The husband-and-wife team behind Kisser brings Tokyo-style home cooking to life with a menu filled with comforting Japanese dishes like onigiri (rice balls), donburi (rice bowls), and crispy chicken karaage.

Unlike traditional sushi spots, Kisser focuses more on homestyle dishes, making it a fantastic place to explore lesser-known Japanese comfort foods.

👉 Must-Try: Salmon Onigiri and Chicken Karaage

O-Ku Sushi – Elegant Dining with High-Quality Sushi

📍 81 Van Buren St, Nashville, TN 37208

For a more upscale sushi experience, O-Ku Sushi offers stunning presentations and top-tier ingredients. This sleek, modern sushi bar sources its fish from Tokyo’s famed Tsukiji Fish Market, ensuring the highest quality possible.

The restaurant boasts a mix of classic sushi options and innovative rolls, like the “Nashville Hot” Roll, which incorporates a spicy Southern kick into a traditional Japanese dish.

👉 Must-Try: Omakase Platter and Nashville Hot Roll

Black Dynasty Ramen – The Ultimate Ramen Spot

📍 2905 Gallatin Pike, Nashville, TN 37216

If you’re in the mood for rich, flavorful ramen, Black Dynasty Ramen is a must-visit. This small but mighty ramen shop operates out of a cozy speakeasy-style space in the East Room. Their bowls are crafted with slow-simmered broths, perfectly cooked noodles, and house-made toppings.

Their Tonkotsu Ramen, featuring a creamy pork broth with chashu pork, is the best in town. For a unique twist, try their Spicy Miso Ramen, which packs a flavorful punch.

👉 Must-Try: Tonkotsu Ramen and Spicy Miso Ramen

Two Ten Jack – Nashville’s Favorite Izakaya

📍 1900 Eastland Ave #105, Nashville, TN 37206

Modeled after the traditional Japanese izakaya (casual pub), Two Ten Jack is the go-to spot for Japanese comfort food. Their menu features a variety of small plates, ramen, yakitori skewers, and craft cocktails inspired by Japan.

For a full izakaya experience, start with a round of Takoyaki (fried octopus balls), followed by a hot bowl of Tonkotsu Ramen, and finish with a sake flight. The laid-back atmosphere and stylish decor make this a perfect spot for a night out.

👉 Must-Try: Takoyaki, Tonkotsu Ramen, and Yuzu Sake Cocktails

Maru Sushi & Grill – A Hidden Gem for Sushi Lovers

📍 1100 Fatherland St #101, Nashville, TN 37206

Located in East Nashville, Maru Sushi & Grill is a family-owned sushi joint that has built a loyal following. Their sushi is always fresh, and the rolls are generously portioned, making this a fantastic spot for both sushi enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

The Maru Special Roll (spicy tuna, crab, avocado, and eel sauce) is a must-try. For those who love a little extra flair, their Baked Salmon Roll is topped with creamy, seared salmon that melts in your mouth.

👉 Must-Try: Maru Special Roll and Baked Salmon Roll

Sonobana Japanese Restaurant & Market – A Hidden Gem for Traditional Dishes

📍 40 White Bridge Rd #101, Nashville, TN 37205

Sonobana is both a Japanese restaurant and market, making it a fantastic place to grab a meal and shop for authentic Japanese ingredients. The restaurant serves up delicious sushi, tempura, and donburi, while the market offers imported snacks, sake, and cooking essentials.

If you want a simple yet delicious meal, try their Unagi Don (grilled eel over rice) or their perfectly crisp Shrimp Tempura.

👉 Must-Try: Unagi Don and Shrimp Tempura

Bar Otaku – Casual Japanese Street Food & Sake

📍 505 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203

If you’re looking for a fun, casual atmosphere with Japanese street food, Bar Otaku is the place to be. Created by the team behind Otaku Ramen, this lively izakaya specializes in small bites like karaage fried chicken, pork gyoza, and grilled skewers.

Pair your meal with a house-made cocktail or a cold glass of sake. It’s a great spot for happy hour or a late-night snack after a concert.

👉 Must-Try: Pork Gyoza, Chicken Karaage, and Sake Flight

Ichigo Ichie – A Modern Take on Japanese Dining

📍 5036 Thoroughbred Ln, Brentwood, TN 37027

A bit outside of downtown Nashville, Ichigo Ichie is a hidden gem that offers a mix of traditional and contemporary Japanese dishes. The restaurant’s name, which translates to “one chance, one meeting,” reflects their philosophy of serving memorable meals.

Their Chirashi Bowl, filled with an assortment of fresh sashimi over sushi rice, is a highlight. They also offer premium sushi platters and unique fusion dishes that set them apart from the competition.

👉 Must-Try: Chirashi Bowl and Premium Sushi Platter

Final Thoughts

Nashville might not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of Japanese cuisine, but it has a thriving food scene that offers everything from authentic sushi to mouthwatering ramen. Whether you’re looking for an elegant omakase experience, a casual izakaya, or a comforting bowl of ramen, Music City has plenty to offer.

So next time you’re in Nashville, skip the hot chicken (just for one night!) and explore the incredible Japanese food scene waiting to be discovered.

Did we miss your favorite spot? Let us know in the comments! 🍣🍜