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Best Japanese Restaurants in Shadyside

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7 restaurants available nearby

A photo of SOBA Lounge restaurant
1. SOBA Lounge
4.7
Exceptional(2854)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Shadyside
Booked 24 times today
Nestled in the heart of Shadyside, Pittsburgh, SOBA Lounge is a gem for Pan-Asian cuisine aficionados. Renowned for its authentic and eclectic dishes, SOBA offers an immersive dining experience with its plush ambiance and unique décor, including a cascading water wall. Diners rave about the "phenomenal Thai corn & crab chowder" and the "tuna tartare that melts in your mouth." The menu, inspired by flavors from across Asia including China, Japan, South Korea, and Thailand, encourages sampling and sharing—a testament to traditional Asian dining customs. Seasonal cocktails complement the dishes, adding a contemporary twist to the classics. SOBA consistently impresses with its "inventive food" and "excellent service," making it a must-visit for those seeking a standout Pan-Asian meal.
A photo of Umi Japanese Restaurant restaurant
2. Umi Japanese Restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(700)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Shadyside
Booked 4 times today
Umi Japanese Restaurant in Shadyside, Pittsburgh, is a sanctuary of sushi excellence, where the ancient art of sushi making meets contemporary flair. Guests consistently praise the "outstanding" sushi, noting the fish's freshness and the masterful preparation that "melts in your mouth." The elegantly understated decor and the meticulous arrangement of each dish contribute to an extraordinary dining experience. The popular seven and eleven-course Omakase menus receive glowing reviews for their "amazing flavors" and "perfect pacing," offering an authentic Japanese culinary journey. Reviewers often share that Umi is "better than any sushi in Pittsburgh," making it a must-visit for sushi enthusiasts seeking a memorable meal.
A photo of Golden Gai restaurant
3. Golden Gai
4.8
Exceptional(46)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Point Breeze
Booked 15 times today
Welcome to Golden Gai, a hidden gem nestled in the vibrant heart of Pittsburgh’s East End, conveniently located in Bakery Square. Step inside and embark on a culinary journey to the bustling streets of Japan with our Izakaya-style dining experience.As you enter Golden Gai, you’re greeted by the warm ambiance of traditional Japanese decor fused with modern touches, creating an inviting atmosphere that is both chic and cozy. The soft glow of our stunning light fixtures over the intimate dining space, where the wooden bar top that spans the length of the space, and slate accents evoke the charm of Tokyo’s iconic Golden Gai district.At the helm of our kitchen is Executive Chef Michael Taylor, a master of Japanese cuisine renowned for his innovative approach to flavor and presentation. With a background honed at the esteemed Gi-Jin, Chef Taylor brings his passion for culinary excellence to every dish, infusing each bite with creativity and precision.
A photo of Gi-Jin restaurant
4. Gi-Jin
4.8
Exceptional(865)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Downtown
Booked 14 times today
Gi-Jin in Downtown Pittsburgh is a beacon of creative Japanese cuisine, redefining the traditional sushi experience with a fusion of global ingredients and authentic Japanese flavors. Praised as the best sushi in Pittsburgh, patrons rave about its "phenomenal food" and the "incredible experience" it offers. With a reservation-only policy, this intimate gin and raw bar ensures every dish, from the exquisite nigiri to the artfully prepared sashimi, is crafted to perfection. The matcha tiramisu is a dream, and the service is consistently described as knowledgeable and attentive, making Gi-Jin a must-visit for an unparalleled dining adventure.
A photo of OTARU restaurant
5. OTARU
4.7
Exceptional(166)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Mt. Washington
Booked 20 times today
Step into OTARU in Mt. Washington, Pittsburgh, and discover the epitome of Creative Japanese cuisine where tradition and innovation converge in a breathtaking dining experience. Praised for its "extraordinary dining experience," OTARU excels in delivering dishes that are not only visually stunning but also bursting with authentic Japanese flavors. Guests rave about the "incredibly fresh and delicious sushi" and the "perfectly balanced flavors" of each dish, from the Uni sashimi to the beef udon. The beautifully plated food, coupled with an "amazing atmosphere" and attentive service, makes OTARU a must-visit for anyone seeking an exceptional Japanese culinary adventure. As one diner puts it, it’s the place where every bite tells a story of "dedication, culture, and profound love for exceptional food."
A photo of Nakama Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar - South Side restaurant
6. Nakama Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar - South Side
4.1
Excellent(1424)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Downtown
Booked 15 times today
Nakama Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar in downtown Pittsburgh stands out as a beacon of Teppanyaki excellence, consistently voted Pittsburgh's Best Japanese/Sushi Restaurant from 2005 through 2018. Diners rave about the "absolute best tasting hibachi grilled steak, chicken & seafood," with one patron exclaiming, "Best sushi and hibachi we've had in years if not best ever!" The chefs at Nakama are not just cooks but performers, known for their "superb cooking presentation" that captivates guests. Whether it’s the engaging chefs or the high-quality ingredients, Nakama promises an unforgettable Teppanyaki experience that keeps patrons returning for more.
A photo of Benihana - Pittsburgh, PA restaurant
7. Benihana - Pittsburgh, PA
4.5
Awesome(1527)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Downtown
Booked 35 times today
Welcome to Benihana, a dining experience unlike any other! Our guests are seated at communal tables in groups, where your personal chef will perform the ancient art of Teppanyaki. Watch as we slice and dice, preparing a meal that will dazzle your eyes as well taste buds, whether you choose mouth-watering steak, tender chicken or succulent seafood. You can also enjoy sushi prepared by a talented sushi chef and indulge in a specialty cocktail.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Alden
    Pittsburgh / Western PA •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Always a great spot to visit. I love the Toro especially in all forms.
    More info
    Gi-JinPrice: Very Expensive• Japanese• Downtown
    •
    4.8
  • Alyssa
    Washington, D.C. Area •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We had a great experience dining at Otaru for the first time for my husband’s birthday. Angela was our server and she was wonderful - very knowledgeable and friendly. We each chose to do the Otaru course which included the salmon tataki appetizer, 6 pieces of chef selected premium sushi, a godzilla roll, and matcha ice cream. The selection and quality of the fish was top notch - best we’ve had in Pittsburgh. We even added on a few pieces of nigiri because we were so excited about how delicious it all was! We also enjoyed the blooming love and old fashioned cocktails with our meal. Highly recommend Otaru!
    More info
    OTARUPrice: Very Expensive• Creative Japanese• Mt. Washington
    •
    4.7
  • Christinavip
    Pittsburgh / Western PA •21 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Another beautiful restaurant by DeShantz. The salad had a delicious citrus ginger dressing and was beautifully prepared. The rolls, nigiri and sashimi were all wonderful. Outstanding items were the gyoza and yakimeshi. Would love to see more gyoza options in future offerings.
    More info
    Golden GaiPrice: Very Expensive• Japanese• Point Breeze
    •
    4.8
  • Jackie
    Pittsburgh / Western PA •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    I take my mom here every time I come to town. We used to come here regularly when I lived in Pittsburgh. The food and drinks are always delicious, the restaurant has a very cool vibe, everyone who works there is friendly and kind, and the service is consistently excellent.
    More info
    SOBA LoungePrice: Expensive• Pan-Asian• Shadyside
    •
    4.7
  • Maud
    Yosemite / Mammoth Lakes •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Sep 27, 2024
    We had a wonderful time at Umi, delicious food and great team!
    More info
    Umi Japanese RestaurantPrice: Very Expensive• Japanese• Shadyside
    •
    4.9

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