Best Japanese Restaurants in Fukuoka

Best Japanese Restaurants in Fukuoka

Curated guide featuring 8 outstanding restaurants, all rated 4.5+ stars

Fukuoka isn't just another stop on Japan's culinary map—it's where serious food lovers come to eat like locals. This busy port city has perfected the art of unpretentious excellence, serving up everything from melt-in-your-mouth sushi to perfectly crispy gyukatsu without the Tokyo price tags or Kyoto crowds. Here, a tiny izakaya tucked down a narrow street might outshine any Michelin-starred spot, and that's exactly what makes dining here so thrilling. The city's proximity to fresh seafood markets and Kyushu's premium beef farms means ingredients arrive at peak perfection, and chefs who've spent decades honing their craft treat every plate like it matters.

We've rounded up nine exceptional Japanese restaurants that capture what makes Fukuoka's dining scene so special. Each spot in this guide has ratings of 4.5 stars or higher, with an impressive average of 4.8 stars across thousands of reviews. You'll find everything from traditional sushi counters where masters work their magic to cozy izakayas perfect for sake and small plates, plus innovative spots reimagining Japanese cuisine with organic ingredients. Whether you're craving world-class wagyu, impeccably fresh nigiri, or the kind of soul-warming comfort food that keeps locals coming back for years, these restaurants represent the best of what Fukuoka has to offer.

Featured Restaurants

$$

Gyukatsu Motomura Fukuoka Parco Branch

★★★★☆
4.9
(11,739 reviews)

This beloved gyukatsu specialist in Fukuoka Parco's basement level has earned an exceptional reputation with nearly 12,000 glowing reviews, drawing both locals and travelers for its expertly breaded and fried beef cutlets served with a personal hot stone for customized cooking. The overwhelming popularity means you'll likely encounter a queue, especially during lunch and dinner rushes, but diners consistently report the tender, flavorful cutlets are absolutely worth the wait. Arrive just before peak meal times or during off-hours to minimize your waiting time and maximize your chances of snagging a spot at this must-visit Tenjin destination.

Japan, 〒810-0001 Fukuoka, Chuo Ward, Tenjin, 2-chōme−9−18 福岡パルコ新館 B2F B202区画
おもてなし いろり寿し 博多
$$

おもてなし いろり寿し 博多

★★★★☆
4.8
(680 reviews)

This highly-rated sushi spot near Hakata Station delivers an authentic Japanese dining experience with a welcoming irori (traditional hearth) atmosphere that has earned it an impressive 4.8-star rating from hundreds of satisfied diners. Travelers consistently praise the quality and freshness of the sushi, making it a reliable choice whether you're dining in or taking out for a convenient meal before catching your train. Given its popularity and proximity to the station, try to visit during off-peak hours to avoid the lunch and dinner rush.

1-chōme-10-17 Hakataekihigashi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0013, Japan
Miyachiku
$$$

Miyachiku

★★★★☆
4.5
(712 reviews)

located in Fukuoka's busy Nakasu entertainment district, Miyachiku has earned its impressive 4.5-star rating from over 700 diners who appreciate its diverse menu offerings and welcoming atmosphere. This second-floor gem attracts both locals and travelers seeking quality cuisine in one of the city's most dynamic neighborhoods, with consistently high marks suggesting reliable service and satisfying meals. Given its popularity and prime location in the heart of Nakasu, consider making a reservation ahead of time, especially for dinner when the district comes alive.

Japan, 〒810-0801 Fukuoka, Hakata Ward, Nakasu, 5-chōme−2−1 ジェイパーク中洲ビル 2F
Sushi kakujuan
$$

Sushi kakujuan

★★★★☆
4.9
(362 reviews)

This highly acclaimed sushi spot in Fukuoka's Hakata Ward has earned an impressive 4.9-star rating from over 360 diners, a testament to its exceptional quality and authentic preparation. Travelers consistently praise the intimate atmosphere and masterful technique that goes into each dish, making it a standout choice for those seeking a memorable Japanese dining experience. Given its stellar reputation and mid-range pricing, reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak dinner hours when locals and visitors alike fill this hidden gem.

11-7 Kamigofukumachi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0036, Japan
Sushi Sakai
$$$$

Sushi Sakai

★★★★☆
4.7
(366 reviews)

Tucked away on the second floor of a building in Fukuoka's lively Nishinakasu district, Sushi Sakai has earned its impressive 4.7-star rating from over 360 diners who consistently praise the quality and authenticity of the experience. This upscale spot delivers the kind of memorable meal that justifies the splurge, with attention to detail that keeps both locals and travelers coming back. Given its popularity and intimate setting, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner service when the restaurant is at its atmospheric best.

Japan, 〒810-0002 Fukuoka, Chuo Ward, Nishinakasu, 3−20 LANEラウンドビル 2F
Sushi Souten
$$

Sushi Souten

★★★★☆
4.6
(347 reviews)

Tucked away in Hakata Ward's Sumiyoshi neighborhood, Sushi Souten has earned an impressive 4.6-star rating from over 300 diners who appreciate its welcoming atmosphere and quality Japanese cuisine. The restaurant's strong reputation suggests consistently excellent food and service that keeps both locals and travelers coming back. Given its popularity and intimate setting in a commercial building, consider making a reservation ahead of time, especially during dinner hours when the freshest selections are available.

Japan, 〒812-0018 Fukuoka, Hakata Ward, Sumiyoshi, 1-chōme−6−9 杉原商店ビル 1F
MAIZURU KITCHEN Organic Japanese Restaurant
$$

MAIZURU KITCHEN Organic Japanese Restaurant

★★★★☆
4.8
(190 reviews)

Maizuru Kitchen draws health-conscious diners and curious travelers alike with its organic approach to Japanese cuisine, earning an impressive 4.8-star rating from nearly 200 satisfied guests. Located in Fukuoka's central Chuo Ward, this welcoming spot has built a loyal following for delivering fresh, quality dishes that showcase the best of organic ingredients without breaking the bank. Given its popularity and mid-range pricing, consider visiting during off-peak lunch hours to snag a table at this local favorite.

Japan, 〒810-0073 Fukuoka, Chuo Ward, Maizuru, 1-chōme−9−11 第二ハリウッドビル 1F
Izakaya sake and snacks 〜KID〜
$$

Izakaya sake and snacks 〜KID〜

★★★★☆
4.9
(147 reviews)

This cozy izakaya in Fukuoka's Haruyoshi district has earned an impressive 4.9-star rating for its authentic Japanese pub experience, serving sake alongside traditional small plates in a welcoming atmosphere. With nearly 150 enthusiastic reviews, travelers consistently praise the quality and variety of dishes that showcase local flavors at reasonable prices. Arrive early or make a reservation if possible, as popular neighborhood spots like this tend to fill up quickly with both locals and savvy visitors.

Japan, 〒810-0003 Fukuoka, Chuo Ward, Haruyoshi, 2-chōme−4−11 リヴィエールシャン 103

Culinary Experiences in Fukuoka

Discover food tours, cooking classes, and unique dining experiences