Best Japanese Restaurants in South Africa

A South African and Japanese restaurant experience by Peter Tempelhoff, Jennifer Whittle & Ashley Moss.

Nobu Cape Town brings Chef Nobu Matsuhisa's world-renowned Japanese fusion cuisine to the vibrant shores of Cape Town, South Africa. Located within the luxurious One&Only Cape Town resort, Nobu offers a sublime dining experience that blends the culinary traditions of Japan with the bold flavours of South Africa. The interior of Nobu Cape Town exudes a sleek and contemporary elegance, with design elements that pay homage to Japanese aesthetics. Wood panelling and natural stone create a warm and inviting atmosphere, while the sophisticated lighting accentuates the restaurant’s modern art pieces and traditional Japanese décor. The dining space is meticulously arranged to offer privacy and comfort, providing an ideal setting for intimate dinners and special occasions. At the heart of Nobu’s menu is its innovative use of fresh South African seafood integrated with traditional Japanese ingredients and techniques. Signature dishes like the Black Cod Miso and Yellowtail Jalapeño embody Nobu’s iconic culinary style. At the same time, local specialities such as Kingklip and Cape Salmon are transformed into exquisite creations with unique twists. The sushi and sashimi offerings are amongst the finest, featuring only the freshest, high-quality fish.

Enveloped in wooden mansards in a 200 year old attic, its signature Japanese shrine-inspired red bar takes center stage since Tjing Tjing Rooftop Bar opened its doors in 2011. Lounge-style seating is complemented by bar-height tables and luxurious indigo wallpaper with embroidered bathing Macaque monkeys. Three kokeshi doll tables subtly infuse layers of personality and Japanese subculture. The Samurai warrior doll represents the past, the Harajuku doll symbolises the present, with the Cyberpunk doll infusing a Japanese futuristic twist. The bar opens up to an airy outside rooftop terrace and is well known for its current indie and electronic music. You can expect a wide selection of bespoke cocktails (including classics by request), Japanese whisky, gin and sake as well as an extensive wine list, including Tjing Tjing's own house wine, made by David & Nadia Wines.