It’s not that it’s difficult to find sushi, ramen, or tempura in Williamsburg. It’s just that it’s exceedingly easy to find exceptional Japanese cuisine. The blend of traditional techniques and modern creativity helps, and in recent years, these restaurants have become more authentic and innovative than ever. The best of the bunch are serving pristine nigiri, rich broths, and delicate small plates. These are the 10 best Japanese restaurants in Williamsburg right now.
Gold Taste Sushi and Japanese Restaurant
$ | (757) 564-5859 | WEBSITE
This cozy spot in Williamsburg is like stepping into a tranquil Japanese retreat, with clean lines and soft lighting that creates an intimate setting for dates and quiet conversations. The fish in question is sourced from top-quality suppliers, so you won’t find this exact freshness anywhere else in town.
They’ve got all the classic rolls, plus the Maguro Ninja—tuna wrapped around avocado with scallions and cilantro—that’s ideal for sharing, and the Alaska Maki with salmon and avocado that’s beautifully balanced and deeply satisfying when you want to treat yourself. The nigiri selection includes a couple unexpected picks. We like the masago or the sea urchin to experience some of that oceanic complexity.
Oishii Japanese Ramen & Hibachi Grill
$ | (757) 220-6880 | WEBSITE
Oishii Japanese Ramen & Hibachi Grill leads the league in cozy student hangouts per square foot, and the chill vibe is accented by a steady stream of William and Mary students that fills the dining room. There’s a lot to appreciate here even before you taste the food. But focus your attention on less-expected starters like the nice and crispy Karagge, and then get to work on steaming bowls of ramen cooked fresh to order.
The pork dumplings are fried to a perfect golden brown and worth keeping all to yourself, while the katsu chicken is sliced to share and great for a quick, affordable meal.
Miyaki Sushi and Grill
$$ | (757) 253-0282 | WEBSITE
Lunch at this straightforward spot is the smart move, when locals and those happily free from the workday gather for quick takeout and efficient midday meals. If it’s your first visit, go for the fresh California roll, the excellent pork bulgogi or Angel roll paired with flavorful miso soup.
Once you’ve tried the obvious hits, it’s time to sample some of the less expected winners, like the James River roll brightened up by crisp vegetables, or the dolsot bibimbap balanced with fresh seaweed salad.
Thai Tara Sushi & Bar
$$ | (757) 208-0310 | WEBSITE
Thai Tara Sushi & Bar has become a Williamsburg favorite, and the place is consistently busy with locals and visitors who appreciate the fresh sushi and authentic Thai-Japanese fusion—bright decor, clean tables, and attentive service. The menu offers familiar favorites, so don’t look for radical twists here, but do expect beautifully presented sushi rolls with multiple types of fish and perfectly balanced green curry with customizable spice levels.
Thai Tara is known for the fresh wasabi that accompanies each plate, and it’s genuinely good wasabi, but don’t skip the Indian pancake appetizer. It’s crispy, flavorful, and comes with a delicious curry dipping sauce.
Ichiban
$$ | (757) 253-8898 | WEBSITE
Ichiban feels more like a cozy neighborhood gem than a typical Japanese-Chinese fusion spot, so it’s perfect for casual dinners with friends. But it’s still authentic, with all the classic dishes and flavors you crave. Slide into a booth, where there’s ample space for crispy maki rolls with sinus-tingling wasabi and the General So chicken packed with sweet peppers and tangy sauce. The Firecracker Beef is so tender it practically melts on your tongue.
Or share a steaming bowl of hot and sour soup or Chicken lo mein, which brings some comforting warmth without overwhelming spice. It arrives with warm towels and quick service, so get ready to relax—or use the moment to chat like you’re catching up at home.
Golden China Chinese and Japanese Restaurant
$ | (757) 229-8888 | WEBSITE
Golden China is the rare Japanese spot where you don’t need to order Japanese. You can, and probably should (the beef teriyaki is incredible), but hear us out. If you’re dining solo, sit in one of the clean booths and order a crispy, generous portion of orange chicken—the sweet-savory sauce clings to the tender meat, with just enough heat to keep things interesting. Or bring friends and request the S&S PK/Ch, which is fried to perfection and available in large family-style servings.
We like the crab rangoon, a crispy parcel that’s creamy inside and perfect to share, so everyone can dip their preferred piece into the accompanying sweet-and-sour sauce or the tangy duck sauce.
Teriyaki Madness
$ | (757) 937-2602 | WEBSITE
With locations across the country, Teriyaki Madness is a fully-fledged chain restaurant—but it serves reliably good Japanese food at reasonable prices, so ignore it at your own peril. Walk past the clean, casual seating area to soak up some of that Williamsburg comfort, then settle into a table or booth.
We like the spicy teriyaki chicken breast bowl with just the right amount of sauce, and the deeply flavorful chicken teriyaki—both made to order and super fresh, unless you mistakenly ask for less spice. Vegetarian options come five different ways here, so add the crispy tofu teriyaki or the edamame and spring rolls with homemade sauces.
Tokyo Express
$ | (757) 259-9888 | WEBSITE
Tokyo Express is a reliable favorite, so go when you’re craving comfort and prepare for the generous portions to come. Skip the house salad—there are better options on the menu—and get your Japanese fix from the tender, flavorful hibachi chicken arranged with fried rice and vegetables (the yum yum sauce is especially rich and savory). The most Williamsburg thing you can do here is to order the shrimp tempura, a crispy, golden-battered delight that pairs perfectly with the silky miso soup.
You can still wish for more veggies in the salad, but at least you won’t be hungry.
Sushiya
$$ | (757) 229-1212 | WEBSITE
Every visit to Sushiya is a reminder of what a classic Japanese restaurant should be. Warm welcomes and quick service, cozy seating and bright lighting, and a dedicated focus on freshness—it’s all prepared and plated in house. The resulting sushi is simple and flavorful in the best way, seasoned with just soy and wasabi and finished with ginger. The menu is well-stocked with options, and its famously generous portions have nearly endless combinations, so there’s always something new to try.
Save yourself some deciding, and ask the server to recommend the sushi boat that goes beyond the usual rolls.
Ramen Time
$ | (757) 808-7277 | WEBSITE
Ramen Time is tucked away in Williamsburg, so you’re here for the ramen as much as the cozy vibe. Arrive hungry, and you can admire the charming decor while sipping $5 green tea or $7 sake during a quiet weekday lunch. Now settled in the inviting atmosphere, you’ll need some noodles. The standout of the menu is the spicy miso ramen, a steaming bowl that’s topped with tender chasiu pork and a soft-boiled egg that melts into the rich, savory broth.