Here Are The Top 5 Spots For Authentic Japanese Fine Dining In HCMC

Seeking a slice of Japan within the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City? Peer beyond the clamor of street vendors and immerse yourself in the realm of refined Japanese cuisine. Our gastronomic exploration unveils the quintet of premier restaurants, where every dish is a symphony of precision and each ingredient sings of seasonal abundance, whisking you away to the enchanting shores of the Land of the Rising Sun.

Prepare to indulge in peerless hospitality, genuine flavors, and an opulent atmosphere that promises to elevate your dining affair to unparalleled heights of delight.

Tenku - Japanese Modern Kaiseki & Bar

Soaring above Ho Chi Minh City on the 67th floor of Landmark 81, Tenku offers an unparalleled fine dining experience. This restaurant is the first in Vietnam to introduce the “Royal Kaiseki Dining in the Sky” set menu, meticulously prepared with seasonal Japanese ingredients and traditional techniques. Led by innovative Chef Naoki Ariga, Tenku’s Kaiseki menu seamlessly blends Japanese heritage with modern touches, ensuring a captivating culinary journey.

Beyond the Kaiseki experience, this restaurant also boasts an extensive A La Carte menu, a Japanese Tea Set, and a convenient Business Sky Lunch set option. For a truly unique experience, explore the Sake Sky Bar, where Japanese culinary influences mingle with global flavors on the plate and innovative sake-based cocktails tantalize the palate.

Whether you seek the luxurious comfort of the main lobby, the breathtaking city views from a private VIP room, or a relaxing open-air experience, Tenku’s ambiance caters to every preference.

Opening hours: 10:30 - 23:30

Address: 67th Floor, Landmark 81, 720 Dien Bien Phu, Binh Thanh District

Sorae Restaurant & Lounge

Tucked away on level 51 of the iconic Bitexco Financial Tower, Sorae Restaurant & Lounge offers breathtaking panoramic views, especially from its unique location next to Vietnam’s unorthodox helipad. The ambiance exudes opulence and sophistication, creating an intimate setting for a truly unforgettable dining experience.

Sorae boasts an impressive Sushi & Sake bar, showcasing a curated selection of renowned sakes alongside the freshest imported seafood flown in directly from Japan. Diners can witness the artistry of the chefs as they meticulously prepare stunning sashimi presentations. For a more casual vibe, the Yakitori & Beer section offers a selection of delectable grilled skewers featuring Wagyu beef, bacon, and various seafood options. Watch the masters skillfully cook over an open flame.

For a truly special occasion, Sorae provides exclusive VIP private dining rooms, each with its own unique theme, allowing guests to delve deeper into Japanese culture and traditions.

Opening hours: 11:00 - 14:00 | 17:00 - 23:00

Address: 51st Floor, Bitexco Financial Tower, 36 Ho Tung Mau, District 1

Towa

Towa, meaning “eternal life” in Japanese, lives up to its name by offering a taste of Japan that feels both timeless and innovative. Here, appreciating food is an interactive journey, not just a meal. They source the purest ingredients, with a focus on high-grade seafood flown in from Tokyo’s Toyosu market and seasonal catches from Hokkaido and Nagasaki Bay. Bluefin tuna is even specially imported from Kochi, a city renowned for its exceptional fish.

The central cocktail bar adds another layer to the experience. Towa’s bartenders craft a myriad of authentic Japanese cocktails, emphasizing delicate flavors and minimalist aesthetics. Each sip promises to awaken all your senses.

Towa caters to every occasion. Whether you seek an intimate gathering or a space to unwind with friends or colleagues, their private areas, ranging from cozy to spacious, offer a refined ambiance with a modern Japanese touch. To truly elevate your experience, the 28th floor of the Sedona Suites building boasts breathtaking 360-degree city views through floor-to-ceiling windows—perfect for those who appreciate a touch of the open air.

Opening hours: 11:30 - 14:00 | 18:00 - 22:30

Address: 28th Floor, Sedona Suites, 94 Nam Ki Khoi Nghia, District 1

Miwaku Premium - Japanese Fusion Cuisine

Miwaku, aptly named for “gorgeous” in Japanese, lives up to its title. They source the finest ingredients globally, featuring everything from Kobe beef with a staggering marbling score to fresh vegetables flown in from Tokyo. Even the exquisite tableware, handcrafted in Saudi Arabia and gilded with meticulous detail, elevates the dining experience.

The mastermind behind the menu is Tatsuya Saito, a renowned chef with expertise in both creative Japanese and modern Italian cuisine. His influence is evident in the fusion dishes, offering a unique blend of Japanese Washoku tradition and Italian elegance.

The meticulous attention to detail extends beyond the plate. The restaurant’s décor boasts a stunning array of imported Japanese elements, from Momiji maple leaves to delicate bamboo leaves, creating an immersive atmosphere that transports you straight to the heart of Japan.

Opening hours: 9:00 - 22:00

Address: 80th Floor, Landmark 81, 720 Dien Bien Phu, Binh Thanh District

5 Senses

Craving a twist on classic Japanese cuisine? 5 Senses Modern Japanese, nestled within the Nikko Hotel, delivers a truly unforgettable experience. This fine-dining gem offers a fusion menu where innovative dishes tantalize the taste buds with their visual flair and modern interpretations. Using only the freshest, premium ingredients, their culinary team crafts masterpieces that are as beautiful to behold as they are delicious. The extensive sake and wine list, meticulously curated to complement each dish, elevates the dining experience further. 5 Senses isn’t just a meal; it’s a journey for the senses.

Opening hours: 15:00 - 23:30

Address: Ground floor, Nikko Hotel, 235 Nguyen Van Cu, District 1