Athens has embraced Japanese cuisine with remarkable enthusiasm, offering everything from intimate omakase experiences to casual izakaya-style dining. Whether you’re craving authentic sushi, creative fusion dishes, or traditional Japanese comfort food, the Greek capital delivers exceptional options that rival those found in major culinary destinations worldwide. After extensive research and review analysis, here’s your definitive guide to the best Japanese restaurants Athens has to offer in 2025.
1. Sushimou – The Purist’s Paradise
Location: Near Syntagma, Central Athens
Vibe: Intimate omakase counter experience
Price Range: Premium (€50-70+ per person)
Sushimou stands as Athens’ crown jewel for authentic Japanese dining. With only 12 seats around a sushi counter, this intimate establishment offers an experience that transports you straight to Tokyo. The chef-driven omakase approach means you’ll taste the freshest seasonal selections, prepared with meticulous attention to traditional Japanese techniques.
What sets Sushimou apart is its unwavering commitment to authenticity. Diners consistently praise the exceptional freshness of the fish and the refined preparation that showcases each ingredient’s natural flavors. The minimalistic atmosphere allows the craftsmanship to take center stage, creating a meditative dining experience that sushi purists dream about.
Book ahead: Reservations are absolutely essential due to limited seating. The intimate setting and high demand make walk-ins nearly impossible.
2. Shiraki Athens – The Accessible Excellence
Location: Nikis 17, Syntagma
Vibe: Upscale yet welcoming, central location
Price Range: Mid-to-high (€30-35 per person)
Shiraki has earned its reputation as one of Athens’ most consistently excellent Japanese restaurants, frequently appearing on “best sushi in Athens” lists. Located in the heart of Syntagma, it strikes the perfect balance between quality and accessibility, making it ideal for both special occasions and business dinners.
The restaurant excels in its attention to detail, from the knowledgeable and attentive staff to the expertly prepared dishes. Their salmon sashimi, teriyaki salmon, and chirashi don receive particular acclaim from diners who appreciate the fresh ingredients and skillful preparation. The pleasant atmosphere features fine décor that creates a relaxed yet sophisticated environment.
Value proposition: While not cheap, most diners feel the pricing is justified by the quality, making it an excellent choice for those seeking premium Japanese cuisine without the ultra-luxury price tag.
3. Matsuhisa Athens – The Luxury Experience
Location: 40 Apollonos Street, Vouliagmeni (Astir Palace area)
Vibe: High-end dining with spectacular sea views
Price Range: Luxury (€80+ per person)
Part of the renowned Nobu/Matsuhisa brand, this restaurant brings world-class Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine to the Athenian Riviera. The stunning seaside location, complete with terrace dining and sunset views, creates an unforgettable dining destination that goes far beyond just the food.
The menu showcases the signature Matsuhisa style, blending traditional Japanese techniques with South American influences and contemporary presentations. The Rockwell Group-designed interior features minimal, organic aesthetics that complement the natural beauty of the coastal setting.
Consider this: While the location and ambiance are undeniably spectacular, some diners feel the high prices aren’t always matched by flawless execution. It’s best suited for special celebrations where the complete experience matters more than pure value.
4. Kenko Japanese Restaurant – The Neighborhood Gem
Location: Nea Smyrni (suburban Athens)
Vibe: Warm, relaxing suburban elegance
Price Range: Premium (€40-50 per person)
Kenko proves that exceptional Japanese dining isn’t limited to central Athens. This Nea Smyrni establishment has earned a stellar 4.6/5 rating by focusing on both traditional favorites and creative fusion options that showcase the chef’s innovative spirit.
Beyond excellent sushi and sashimi, Kenko surprises with unique offerings like oysters with special garnishes, black rice preparations, and expertly crafted ceviche. Their cocktail program deserves special mention, with drinks that are described as “immaculate in both presentation and flavor.”
Local favorite: For residents of southern Athens suburbs, Kenko represents the perfect neighborhood destination for upscale Japanese dining without the trek to central Athens.
5. GAKU Sushi-Izakaya – The Social Choice
Location: Multiple locations (Syntagma & Chalandri)
Vibe: Modern izakaya with social atmosphere
Price Range: Mid-to-high (€35-45 per person)
GAKU successfully captures the spirit of Japanese izakaya culture, creating a space where excellent food meets social dining. Their “award-winning Japanese cuisine beyond just sushi” philosophy means you’ll find an extensive menu that caters to various preferences and dietary needs.
The modern, polished atmosphere encourages lingering over sake and sharing small plates with friends. Their all-day menu flexibility makes it suitable for both lunch meetings and evening celebrations, while their extensive sake catalog and creative cocktails enhance the social dining experience.
Perfect for: Groups who want variety in their dining experience and appreciate the izakaya concept of food as a social experience rather than just sustenance.
6. Ekiben Kitchen – The Casual Champion
Location: Skoufou 15, Central Athens
Vibe: Relaxed, railway bento-inspired casual dining
Price Range: Moderate (€20-30 per person)
Inspired by Japanese railway bento culture, Ekiben Kitchen offers a refreshing alternative to formal sushi dining. This casual spot excels in cooked Japanese dishes, with their ramen, fried chicken, gyoza, and edamame earning particular praise from repeat customers.
The restaurant’s strength lies in its variety and accessibility. The relaxed atmosphere makes it perfect for everyday dining, while the small retail corner selling Japanese ingredients and drinks adds to the authentic experience. It’s the ideal choice when you’re craving Japanese comfort food without the ceremony of formal dining.
Bonus: The diverse menu allows you to sample multiple Japanese preparations in one visit, making it excellent for those new to Japanese cuisine or groups with varying preferences.
7. Akira Sushi Bar – The Contemporary Choice
Location: Central Athens
Vibe: Modern sushi presentation with contemporary atmosphere
Price Range: Mid-range (€25-35 per person)
Akira Sushi Bar represents the modern evolution of sushi dining in Athens, focusing on contemporary presentation while maintaining traditional quality standards. The restaurant appeals to diners who appreciate both classic preparations and innovative twists on familiar favorites.
Ideal for: Those seeking a balance between tradition and innovation in their sushi experience.
8. Nakama – The Neighborhood Favorite
Location: Central Athens
Vibe: Friendly neighborhood sushi bar
Price Range: Moderate (€25-35 per person)
Nakama operates as a reliable neighborhood sushi destination, earning praise for attentive staff and modest pricing relative to the quality offered. While it may not reach the heights of the premium establishments, it provides consistent quality in a comfortable, unpretentious setting.
Good to know: Some reviewers note occasional variability in experience, suggesting it’s worth checking recent reviews before visiting.
9. Sakura Sushi and Steak House – The Fusion Approach
Location: Athens area
Vibe: Combination Japanese-Western dining
Price Range: Mid-to-high (€30-40 per person)
Sakura takes a fusion approach, combining Japanese sushi preparations with Western steak house elements. This concept appeals to diners who want Japanese flavors alongside more familiar Western options, making it suitable for mixed groups with varying culinary preferences.
10. Ya Zhou – The Pan-Asian Option
Location: Athens area
Vibe: Broader Asian cuisine with Japanese specialties
Price Range: Moderate (€20-30 per person)
Ya Zhou offers Japanese options within a broader Pan-Asian menu, providing flexibility for diners who want to explore various Asian cuisines in one location. While not exclusively Japanese, it serves as a good option for groups with diverse preferences.
Making Your Choice: A Quick Guide
For the ultimate sushi experience: Sushimou (book well in advance) For reliable excellence in the center: Shiraki Athens For a special celebration with a view: Matsuhisa Athens For suburban luxury: Kenko Japanese Restaurant For social dining and variety: GAKU Sushi-Izakaya For casual, everyday Japanese food: Ekiben Kitchen
Final Thoughts
Athens’ Japanese restaurant scene has matured dramatically, offering authentic experiences that honor traditional Japanese culinary principles while embracing local influences and contemporary presentations. Whether you’re a sushi purist seeking the perfect omakase experience or someone looking for casual Japanese comfort food, Athens delivers options that satisfy every craving and budget.
The city’s Japanese restaurants have moved far beyond the basic sushi-and-teriyaki offerings of the past, now featuring properly trained chefs, authentic ingredients, and dining experiences that transport you to Japan itself. From the intimate counter service at Sushimou to the spectacular seaside luxury of Matsuhisa Athens, each restaurant on this list offers something unique to the discerning diner.
Plan your Japanese culinary journey through Athens with confidence – these establishments represent the very best the city has to offer, each bringing their own interpretation of Japanese hospitality and cuisine to the Greek capital.
