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The 11 Top Japanese Eateries in Manchester That Will Make You Say ‘Oishii!
Manchester’s food scene is buzzing, and when it comes to Japanese cuisine, the city is spoilt for choice.
I still remember my first sushi experience – trying to look cool while battling slippery chopsticks and accidentally launching a piece of sashimi across the table. It was a disaster, but it marked the beginning of my love affair with Japanese food.
So, let’s roll (pun intended) through the top Japanese eateries in Manchester that will make you crave for more Japanese delights.
Maki & Ramen
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Address: 11 York St
Contact details: +44 161 236 6333
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 11AM-10PM
Pricing: £££
If you’re looking for a spot that blends tradition with a bit of modern flair, Maki & Ramen is where it’s at. Their sushi is always fresh and vibrant, and they’ve got this great little thing called the Message Wall where you can scribble your thoughts after your meal.
They’ve also got a cool club called Makifam. Join it, and you’ll get exclusive perks and discounts.
Plus, their Japanese-inspired cocktails are a must-try. These drinks are not just about getting tipsy but elevating your whole dining experience.
| Pro tip: Try the Chef’s Special Roll – it’s a delightful surprise of flavours that you won’t forget. Don’t skip the Message Wall either; it’s fun and a bit quirky. |
Waku Waku
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Address: 54 Portland St
Contact details: +44 161 236 0988
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM-10PM
Pricing: £££
The first thing you’ll notice in Waku Waku is how extensive the menu is; seriously, you might struggle to pick just one dish because everything sounds delicious.
Start with one of their cocktails – some even have milk, which was a bit of a surprise. Opt for a floral version of a Mojito, which is as pretty as a postcard from rural Japan and tasted just as good.
The katsu shrimp here is a must-try. The pieces are huge and the crunch is pure ASMR heaven. The only letdown was the sauce, which could use a bit more kick, maybe a spicy mayo.
| Pro tip: Try the tequila cocktail for a fruity delight, and don’t be shy to ask for recommendations if you’re overwhelmed by the choices. |
Sushi Mami
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Address: 111 Portland St
Contact details: +44 161 273 6688
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM-11PM
Pricing: £££
Sushi Mami on Oxford Road is perfect for those who love a bit of tech with their tempura. This modern Japanese restaurant has a smart tablet ordering system, so you can tap your way through their extensive menu without waiting for a server.
It’s all about efficiency here, and you can explore their wide variety of sushi, sashimi, and hot dishes at your own pace. The all-you-can-eat menu is a steal if you’re looking to try a bit of everything.
From crispy tempura to sizzling teppanyaki, Sushi Mami has it all. The food is fresh, the atmosphere is buzzing, and it’s a great spot whether you’re on a casual night out or celebrating something special.
| Pro tip: Order a bento box for lunch – it’s a fantastic deal and lets you sample a bit of everything without breaking the bank. |
MUSU
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Address: 64 Bridge St
Contact details: +44 161 832 1612
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM-11PM
Pricing: £££
MUSU offers a dining experience that’s a blend of tradition and innovation. Their Sentaku menu is a great choice if you’re in the mood to curate your own dining adventure, while the Kaiseki set menu, crafted by their chef, presents a more structured meal.
For those seeking a unique experience, the Omakase is a must-try. Head Sushi Chef Andre Aguiar leads this exclusive sushi journey, bringing a slice of Tokyo to Manchester. Their menu features dishes like tuna tartare, salmon sashimi, and the trendy chawanmushi.
If you’re after something more substantial, try the black cod or the red prawns with black truffle. Vegetarians won’t feel left out with options like vegetable gyoza and tofu with charred young veggies.
The dessert menu is just as impressive, with choices like sweet sticky rice and pear with Japanese whisky.
| Pro tip: Stay late to enjoy their Nijikai afterparty menu, featuring the famous katsu sando – the ultimate Japanese sandwich. |
Ivy Asia
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Address: Byrom St
Contact details: +44 161 503 3222
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM-11PM
Pricing: £££
Stepping into Ivy Asia is like entering an opulent, vibrant world inspired by Asian influences. The restaurant’s design and décor are as impressive as the menu, creating a luxurious and theatrical dining experience.
From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted by a sense of extravagance and energy. The menu offers a variety of dishes, from pot-roasted lobster to sushi and sashimi.
Their lighter classics and vegetarian options are perfect for those who prefer a less indulgent meal. The restaurant’s cocktails are as innovative as the food, with each drink crafted to complement the flavours of the dishes.
| Pro tip: Order the pot-roasted lobster if you’re feeling indulgent – it’s a real treat for the taste buds. And don’t miss out on their cocktails; they’re a perfect match for the restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere. |
Peter Street Kitchen
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Address: Free Trade Hall, Peter St
Contact details: +44 161 835 8903
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM-10PM
Pricing: £££
Peter Street Kitchen, nestled in the historic Manchester Free Trade Hall, offers an intriguing fusion of Japanese and Mexican cuisine. The small plates concept is perfect for sharing, making it a great spot for a social dining experience.
The restaurant’s chic and contemporary setting adds to its charm, making it a popular choice for both casual meals and special occasions. The menu features an extensive range of dishes, from sushi and sashimi to tacos and ceviche.
It’s also a great spot for pre-theatre dining, thanks to its proximity to several theatres, including the Albert Hall and the Palace Theatre. Their wine and sake selection is impressive, so you’ll have the perfect drink to accompany your meal!
| Pro tip: If you’re heading to a show, book a table for their pre-theatre menu – it’s quick, delicious, and ensures you won’t miss the opening act. And don’t miss their sake selection; it’s one of the best in the city. |
WAZUZHI
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Address: 63 Faulknr St
Contact details: +44 161 237 5733
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM-10PM
Pricing: ££
WAZUZHI has an evening deal that’s pretty sweet: three conveyor belt bits (grey or orange plates) and a main noodle ramen dish for just £14.50. The menu includes tiger and chicken gyoza tonkotsu ramen, which is creamy, spicy, and has a nice nutty flavour.
The ramen comes with big, tender chicken gyozas, bouncy noodles, and chopped shiitake mushrooms. If you’re eyeing the conveyor belt, you’ll find fresh sushi that’s hard to resist.
The spicy tuna is a standout – fresh and full of flavour. The plates are colour-coded, so keep an eye out for your favourites. WAZUZHI also offers a range of other drinks if beer isn’t your thing, so there’s something for everyone.
| Pro tip: Pair your ramen with a cold beer. It’s a match made in heaven with the spicy, rich broth and helps balance out the flavours. |
Shoryu Manchester
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Address: 1 Piccadilly
Contact details: +44 161 222 6030
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM-10PM
Pricing: £££
Shoryu Manchester is the first branch of this upmarket Japanese ramen bar outside of London, and it’s a real treat. Nestled in Piccadilly Gardens, this intimate restaurant offers communal dining, making it perfect for a quick bite with friends or a casual date night.
The star of the show here is the Hakata tonkotsu ramen – rich, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying. But there’s more than just ramen to enjoy; their menu features a wide choice of Shoryu buns, tetsunabe gyozas, tempura, sashimi, and yakitori dishes.
Don’t miss their selection of Japanese wines, shochus, and sakes, including the prestigious Gekkeikan Royal Warrant sake. With a head chef from a Michelin-star background in Japan, you know you’re in for something special.
| Pro tip: Try the Hakata tonkotsu ramen paired with a glass of Gekkeikan sake for an authentic Japanese experience. |
Samsi
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Address: 36-38 Whitworth St
Contact details: +44 161 279 0022
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM-10PM
Pricing: £££
Samsi has earned its spot as one of Manchester’s top Japanese restaurants, thanks to its extensive menu and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re in the mood for tempura, teriyaki, sukiyaki, katsu, donburi, ramen, sushi, or sashimi, Samsi has you covered.
They cater to all tastes, dietary requirements, and budgets, making it a versatile choice for any dining occasion. The set banquet meals are perfect for sharing, and their lunchtime deals, including a bento box to go, are a great value.
The smart décor, with polished wooden floors and Japanese artefacts, adds to the dining experience. And don’t leave without trying their green tea ice cream for dessert – it’s the perfect finish to a delightful meal.
| Pro tip: Go for the bento box at lunchtime for a great variety of dishes at a reasonable price, and don’t miss the green tea ice cream for dessert. |
Teppanyaki Chinatown
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Address: 58-60 George St
Contact details: +44 161 228 2219
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM-10PM
Pricing: ££
Teppanyaki Chinatown is a staple of Manchester’s Japanese dining scene, having been around since 1987. This place is where many locals had their first taste of teppanyaki, where chefs cook right in front of you on a hot iron plate.
Despite its longevity, Teppanyaki Chinatown is all about substance over show. The focus is on the food, with dishes cooked in their signature Tokyo sauce made of teriyaki and Japanese butter.
Options range from seafood to beef, lamb, duck, chicken, and tofu. Their sushi is also a highlight, making it a great spot for both teppanyaki and sushi lovers.
Their set menus, combining teppanyaki and sushi, are a great way to experience the best of both worlds and range from £25 to £45. They also have some good-value lunch deals if you’re looking for a more affordable option.
| Pro tip: Go for a set menu to enjoy a mix of teppanyaki and sushi – it’s the best way to sample their specialties without breaking the bank. |
Nagoya Sushi & Noodle Bar
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Address: 111 Lapwing Ln
Contact details: +44 161 237 5750
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM-10PM
Pricing: £
Nagoya Sushi & Noodle Bar is a delightful spot for a casual Japanese meal in Manchester. Known for their tasty sushi platters, pepper squid, and California rolls, this place delivers on flavour without the fuss.
You can also order dishes to take away, which is a bonus if you prefer dining at home. The atmosphere at Nagoya is quiet and homey, with attentive staff ensuring you have a pleasant dining experience.
Their prices are affordable, making it a great choice if you’re looking for good Japanese food that doesn’t break the bank. Their sushi is fresh and well-prepared, and the noodle dishes are hearty and satisfying.
| Pro tip: Order the sushi platter for a variety of flavours in one go, and don’t miss the pepper squid – it’s a standout dish. |
