Independent Japanese restaurants have taken the city by storm. Our YEP reviewers have tried a number of them – including Yokohama and Little Tokyo – and understand why they’re among the top restaurants in Leeds.
We have now also rounded up the top 12 restaurants serving Japanese cuisine in Leeds as of May 2023 according to Tripadvisor reviews for you to try.
7. Wagamama, White Rose Centre
Wagamama has a rating of 4.0 stars from 413 reviews. A customer at Wagamama said: "Came for a lovely meal, the food was so good! We were served by Ashleigh - she was absolutely lovely and we experienced such good service from her!! Would definitely recommend." Photo: Simon Hulme
8. Sakku, St. Peter's Square
Sakku has an average of 4.5 stars from 124 reviews. A customer at Sakku said: "The best sushi restaurant in Leeds so far, we tried all of them but this one still my favourite, food is gorgeous, the service is friendly and polite, manager always checking up on us, fantastic, keep going." Photo: Gary Longbottom
9. Yummy Sushi Bar, Leeds Kirkgate Market
On Tripadvisor, Yummy Sushi Bar has a rating of 5.0 from 31 reviews. A customer at Yummy Sushi Bar said: "Best sushi in leeds, served by a very friendly, knowledgeable guy. Just a counter in the market that you’d just as easily walk past. The chef prepares and talks you through everything right in front of you. All incredibly fresh, flavourful and authentic." Photo: Simon Hulme
10. Little Tokyo, Central Road
Little Tokyo has an average of 3.5 stars from 1,002 reviews on Tripadvisor. A customer at Little Tokyo said: "One of my favourite restaurants in Leeds, the chicken curry with udon noodles is a must for anyone who loves Japanese food." Photo: James Hardisty
11. Wasabi, Albion Street
Wasabi has an average of 4.0 from 113 reviews on Tripadvisor. A customer at Wasabi said: "OMG, first time I’ve been here and it was fantastic. We had the sushi boxes and the hot food options also looked amazing as well.. one of the best places to eat in Leeds for lunch." Photo: Google
12. Oba Kitchen And Bar, Merrion Centre
Oba has a rating of 5.0 from 18 reviews on Tripadvisor. A customer at Oba said: "Visited before a gig at the arena last week and thoroughly enjoyed our visit. Service was excellent and attentive. All of our dishes were great and represented great value. Would happily return." Photo: Google