10 Best Japanese Restaurants in Mexico City + Sushi

When you think of the food in Mexico, you probably imagine tacos, tamales, and tortas—but Japanese food?

Yes! In my opinion, the Japanese restaurants in Mexico City are some of the top culinary gems in the city.

From incredibly fresh fish and sushi to mouthwatering okonomiyaki and a rich broth of ramen, there is a surprising array of traditional Japanese food in Mexico City.

There are two factors at play here. First, the influence of Japanese culture in Mexico dates back over a century when the first Japanese immigrants arrived, which I’ll briefly discuss at the end. 

Second, Mexico City is home to the second largest fish market in the world, La Viga Mariscos, located about 30 minutes south of the city in Iztapalapa and next to the sprawling Central de Abastos Market.

So, if you’re exploring Mexico City and feel like swapping your tacos for tempura or your tamales for sushi, you’re in luck. I’ve rounded up the best Japanese restaurants in Mexico City. 

They go beyond the fresh fish to include foodie favorites like teppanyaki, ramen, and more. And if you’re looking for the best sushi in Mexico City, keep reading. I included some of my favorite places to each sushi in its own section at the end.

Best Japanese Restaurants in Mexico City

I’ve started this list with the best Japanese restaurants in Mexico City that go beyond sushi because that’s where I had some of the most creative and authentic dishes.

These are in order of the best Japanese food I ate in CDMX, but it was a close tie for the top three. Each one is a completely different dining experience, so I recommend you start there.

1.Gin Chan

Gin Chan is the creation of Silverio, a trained chef and Mexico City native, who became infatuated with Japanese food and culture more than 10 years ago.

After several visits to Japan, during which his friends gave him the nickname Gin Chan (Silver Friend), he started one of the best Japanese restaurants in Mexico City.

The nigiri, sashimi, and traditional rolls feature beautiful fresh fish. But I encourage you to also venture past that part of the menu towards the specialty plates he created.

The fried fish neck was perfectly cooked and doused in a flavorful umami sauce. It was quite possibly the highlight for me. Although the oysters prepared with a quail egg, caviar, ikura, tobiko, and ponzu sauce were a delight.

2. C.O.M.E. for Homemade Japanese Food

This small Japanese restaurant in Mexico City is only open for a few hours in the afternoon. And it gets busy for good reason!

They offer an affordable menu del día that includes miso soup, entree of your choice, and a drink. There are three entrees to choose from each day and it’s served with a small salad.

You can also order from the main menu which includes gyozas and an array of rice bowls, including a veggie option with tofu that satisfied my vegetarian friends.

3. Taishu Teppan Sango

Craving Japanese food, teppanyaki style? Taishu is the spot. 

The unique concept of this small Japanese restaurant brings foodie favorite teppanyaki to Mexico City. The long flat grill divides the restaurant in two, with staff on one side and customers seated on the other.

The menu includes a few starters such as yakitori and a perfectly prepared cucumber salad. Then it shines with okonomiyaki (Japanese pancake) with your choice of various toppings including pork, shrimp, and tripa.

The menu also includes udon noodle bowls and yakisoba with similar toppings. The most popular cocktails of the house are listed as sours. They are prepared white rum served over ice and large pieces of your choice of fruit, topped off with mineral water.

4. Jametaro for Ramen in Mexico City

If you’re looking for traditional ramen in Mexico City, Jametaro is a hidden gem you won’t want to miss.

The ramen broth here is lighter in style but incredibly flavorful after simmering for over 10 hours. And if you like gyozas, these are delicious. The Japanese crepes cake for dessert is also a delightful sweet treat. 

My Japanese friend, who spent over a month searching for the best ramen in Mexico City, says Jametaro is the real deal. For her it was a nostalgic (and tasty!) experience that made it worth trekking to the Santa María la Ribera neighborhood.

Tip: When you’re in the area, check out the Kiosco Morisco nearby. It’s one of the most unique landmarks in Mexico City.

5. Nagaoka Japanese Restaurant

I wasn’t expecting to find traditional Japanese food in Mexico City at the airport, but then it is La Gran Ciudad!

They also have a location near Narvarte neighborhood south of the city which offers a larger menu, so I definitely recommend visiting that location if you can.

In addition to ramen, sushi, and rice dishes, they offer a variety of hot pots to cook at the table. For traditional Japanese food whether it’s dinner or an airport snack, put Nagaoka on your list.

Want to discover more delicious food? Read my guide to the best breakfast and brunch in Mexico City.

6. Sakanaya

This authentic Japanese restaurant in Mexico City has a varied menu. The seafood is a mix of imported and domestic, including rarely seen sawagani crabs (although they weren’t available when I visited).

Other traditional Japanese dishes include clams steamed in sake, a variety of Don bowls, tempura, garage, mozuku and cucumber sunomono.

There is also a full list of Teishoku which are set meals served with rice, miso soup, and your choice of two sides. The menu also includes a small offering of sashimi, sushi rolls (which looked fabulous), and oysters.

7. Ryoshi

If you’re looking for a high-end Japanese dining experience in Mexico City, Ryoshi should be on your list. 

The fish is not only incredibly fresh but its presentation in every dish from the sushi to their tuna flight is a work of art. 

The cocktails are equally impressive in their flavor and presentation. Although if you’re into trying different sakes, their sake flight is a fun way to order. 

For those who love seafood, Ryoshi offers some of the freshest fish in Mexico City, rivaling top-tier spots like Contramar.

8. Vegan Ramen Mei Condesa Mexico City

I know what you’re thinking… Vegan ramen?

But hear me out. If you’re skeptical about eating vegan ramen, this place will change your mind.

The broths are rich and deeply flavored, mimicking the complexity of traditional ramen. Highlights include the creamy, spicy Hakata Red Tonkotsu ramen, orange “chicken” and mapo tofu. 

Vegan Ramen Mei manages to deliver incredibly authentic ramen and is one of the best vegan restaurants in Mexico City.

9. Omusubi House

If you love onigiri or you’re looking for a quick Japanese snack food, check out this tiny shop in Roma Norte.

Each day they make fresh onigiri with a variety of toppings that include mackerel, wagyu, salmon, as well as unique Mexican-Japanese combination of miso with hoja santa. There are also several veggie options.

10. Koku

While I wouldn’t say this is the most authentic Japanese food in Mexico City, it’s a solid option with a fun atmosphere. When my mom and I saw pictures of the patio, we were sold and decided to eat at Koku for dinner for a change of pace.

The menu is extensive, including popular options such as ramen, udon noodles, rice bowls, and sushi. And it includes favorite appitizers such as edamame and sashito peppers.

11. Mog Bistro

This is another Japanese restaurant in Mexico City that has a fun outdoor atmosphere. The extensive menu includes a few dishes from other Asian cuisines, but serves primarily Japanese food.

The extensive menu is categorized by type of dish including sumibi, kushikatsu, tempura, sushi, rice dishes, and noodles. There’s even a section for wagyu beef prepared several different ways.

Best Sushi in Mexico City

There’s no shortage of sushi in Mexico City. But if you’re looking for authentic sushi rolls without cream cheese, you’ll need to pay attention to which type of sushi bar you choose.

It’s not to say there isn’t a lot of authentic sushi in CDMX. There is, so let’s check out some of my favs!

12. Kai Sushi Bar in Polanco

When I found myself traveling solo in Mexico City over the holidays, I knew I wanted to treat myself to a special dinner. So I chose a place with some of the best sushi in Mexico City.

From the moment I stepped inside, I felt as though I was transported to Japan. Every detail, from the simple, modern design to the presentation, reflects their commitment to authenticity.

They offer an incredible omakase experience reminiscent of Tokyo. And you can step it up a notch by selecting the premium omakase which adds a unique twist of ingredients such as caviar, foie gras, and even wagyu nigiri. 

Kai Sushi Bar in Polanco is a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic and elevated sushi in Mexico City at a reasonable price.

13. Yoru Handroll and Sushi Bar

This small sushi bar in Roma Norte has the cutest outside seating on the sidewalk. Plus the menu features fresh fish in the form of nigiri, sashimi, and handrolls with an unpretentious presentation.

When my mom and I are at Yoru, she loved how they folded the handrolls to create a sort of bottom which kept the ingredients inside. Overall the sushi is fresh, flavorful, and great for a quick bite.

14. Santo Hand Roll Bar

Santo Hand Roll Bar offers a creative take on sushi, blending tradition with innovation. The vibrant atmosphere compliments the menu of Japanese food with a Latin twist. 

Standout dishes include the eel and soft shell crab hand rolls. The sashimi paired with chocolate is an unexpected but delightful flavor combination. And the truffle hamachi is a must-try. 

Even non-vegetarians rave about the mushroom special and avocado nigiri. This is definitely a spot worth adding to your list!

Bonus – Tsubomi Japanese Bakery in CDMX

Tsubomi is a Japanese bakery in Mexico City whose fresh bread, especially the adorable Totoro-shaped loaves, are a must-try for any fan of Japanese culture. 

Plus who can say no to homemade Pocky sticks? They also offer delicious sandwiches that are perfect for a quick but satisfying meal. 

Other highlights include azuki bread and a delicate matcha roll. This place can get busy on the weekends, so prepare to wait in line.

History of Japanese Food in Mexico

The first indication I had of a history of Japanese food in Mexico was the addictive Hot Nuts found in convenience stores. The spicy, crunchy snack quickly became a favorite of mine, which I later learned was created by a Japanese immigrant.

Then I began to have an inkling that quite a few Mexicans are infatuated with Japanese culture, mostly because I saw their love of sushi (although most prefer non-traditional rolls with cream cheese).

But it wasn’t until I explored the Japanese restaurants in Mexico City that I became more aware of the history. 

Japanese immigrants first arrived in Mexico in the late 1800s. Some worked on coffee farms in Oaxaca and Chiapas. Others settled in northern Mexico.

Did you know? There’s even a Japanese cultural festival hosted every year by the Japanese Mexico Association.

When relations between Japan and Mexico soured after Pearl Harbor, the Mexican government required Japanese to relocate to Guadalajara or Mexico City so that they could keep a better eye on them.

Since there was already a Japanese community established in Mexico City at the time, most chose the capital. And ever since, they’ve been infusing the city with their culture and culinary traditions.

Final Thoughts, Japanese Restaurants Mexico City

Whether you want a break from Mexican food or you’re craving fresh fish and sushi, Mexico City is one of the top places to eat Japanese food.

The Japanese restaurants in Mexico City rival those in any major city around the world.

Want to learn more about Mexico food, unique destinations, and insider tips for traveling to Mexico? You should join the Mexico Travel Network, my free Facebook group. Inside the group, myself and other travelers answer your questions and share our best tips for traveling in Mexico.

Questions About Japanese Food in Mexico City