Brazil has the largest Japanese community outside of Japan. In the heart of Sao Paulo, a city renowned for its vibrant multicultural scene, finding the best Japanese places can be a culinary adventure. From the bustling streets of Liberdade to the charming corners of Jardins, here’s a guide to the best Japanese places in Sao Paulo that will transport your taste buds straight to Japan.
Quito Quito: An Authentic Japanese Izakaya in Jardins
When you think of an authentic Japanese izakaya in Sao Paulo, look no further than Quito Quito. Nestled on Alameda Campinas, in the heart of the Jardins neighborhood, this gem is just a 10-minute walk from Paulista Avenue and close to Ibirapuera Park. Jardins is renowned for its local Sao Paulo charm and a plethora of great dining options, and Quito Quito is a standout.
Walking into Quito Quito is like stepping into a traditional Japanese restaurant. The ambiance is spot-on with a large counter where you can sit and watch the chefs at work, small tables for two, and cozy private rooms at the back, separated by walls and curtains. This layout offers an intimate dining experience that is quintessentially Japanese, right in the middle of Sao Paulo.
The highlight of any visit to Quito Quito is undoubtedly the food. The “Nigiri of the Day” features some of the freshest fish you can taste in Sao Paulo. For those with a hearty appetite, the sashimi combo offers a pound of the best fish available, sliced into delicious, fresh steaks. Other must-try dishes include the mussels, fresh oysters, oyster sushi, and various fresh fish ponzus, carpaccios, and tatakis. The menu changes daily based on the freshest ingredients available, so be sure to ask for recommendations.
Chef Kaori Muranaka, a talented Japanese woman, brings authenticity and a personal touch to every dish. Her expertise and passion for Japanese cuisine shine through, making every meal at Quito Quito an extraordinary experience.
Yorimichi Izakaya: A Treasure Trove of Authentic Japanese Cuisine
In the heart of Sao Paulo, there’s a culinary treasure where Japan’s traditions meet Brazilian influences. Welcome to Yorimichi Izakaya, one of the best Japanese places in Sao Paulo. Located at R. Otávio Nébias, 203 – Paraíso, Yorimichi Izakaya is more than just a restaurant; indeed, it’s a slice of Japanese tradition nestled within the city.
This little gem captures the essence of a small Japanese oyster bar, complete with chefs busily preparing meals on a traditional Japanese grill, known as a ‘robatayaki’. Although the place is cozy with just ten seats on the first floor and private dining rooms on the second, the intimate setting significantly adds to the overall experience.
At Yorimichi Izakaya, you’ll find an array of dishes perfect for sharing. The must-try items certainly include fresh Santa Catarina oysters and vibrant red tuna sashimi. Meanwhile, their sweet corn tempura, a signature treat, and the meaty gyoza never fail to delight the palate. Similarly, don’t forget to sample their mouth-watering ‘yukke’, a type of steak tartare, and the succulent ‘fraldinha’ steak.
Vegetarians need not despair; the grilled asparagus and eggplant options are superb. Additionally, chicken fans will love the chicken oyster, a delicacy found at the back of the chicken’s wing, and the tasty chicken skewers served with an egg yolk. Evidently, the menu offers something for everyone.
End your meal on a sweet note with their delectable matcha ice-cream. Concurrently, explore their extensive sake menu that boasts both Brazilian and Japanese bottles catering to different price points. Undeniably, Yorimichi Izakaya offers a feast for all senses. Reservations are required, set your date here.
Sushi Vaz: The Best Omakase Experience in Sao Paulo
The buzzing city of Sao Paulo, already known for its vibrant food scene, now adds another gem to its crown with Sushi Vaz. This humble sushi establishment along Avenida Santos has quickly become the go-to place for the most authentic Omakase dining experience in town.
Omakase, for the uninitiated, is a unique dining experience where the chef presents a series of plates, starting from the simplest and gradually advancing to the more flavorful and complex dishes. The essence of Omakase is the trust between the customer and the chef. At Sushi Vaz, Chef Vaz translates this trust into an extraordinary culinary adventure that speaks volumes of his expertise and passion.
Sushi Vaz’s menu changes regularly, depending on what ingredients are at their best on the day. Every plate is not just a meal but a journey into the depths of Japanese cuisine, making Sushi Vaz one of the best Japanese places in Sao Paulo. From fresh sashimi to the perfectly seared toro (fatty tuna), every dish is a masterstroke, a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that will leave your palate longing for more.
Kenzo Sushi: A Sushi Haven in Liberdade
Sushi in Liberdade is synonymous with an authentic Japanese dining experience. Being a traditional Japanese neighborhood, Liberdade is known for its historic Japanese influence that is especially evident in its street lamps, designed in a traditional Japanese style. Adding to this cultural richness is Kenzo Sushi, one of the best Japanese places in Sao Paulo.
Set in the heart of Liberdade, on R. Thomaz Gonzaga, 45-F, Kenzo Sushi transports you to Japan with its traditional and minimalistic ambiance. The counter seating gives you an upfront view of the sushi chef’s deft skills, making it a delight for sushi connoisseurs. Its interior is a stark contrast to its vibrant artsy exterior that adds a creative flair to the traditional food street of Liberdade.
Kenzo Sushi prides itself on its extensive range of traditional sushi options that cater to a variety of budgets. The Omakase meal is the star of the menu, where “omakase” translates to “I will leave it to you” – you entrust the chef to craft a series of dishes showcasing the freshest ingredients available. This dining style makes Kenzo Sushi an immersive experience beyond just a meal.
The standout quality at Kenzo Sushi is undeniably the freshness and quality of their fish – some of the best you can get in Sao Paulo. Even those on a tight budget can enjoy this through their lunch menu, served only during lunch hours and offering a selection of sushi and temaki at friendly prices.
Conclusion: Exploring the Best Japanese Places in Sao Paulo
From the intimate ambiance of Quito Quito and Yorimichi Izakaya to the masterful Omakase at Sushi Vaz and the authentic experience at Kenzo Sushi, these are some of the best Japanese places in Sao Paulo.
Each offers a unique glimpse into Japanese cuisine, making them must-visit spots for anyone looking to enjoy the finest Japanese dining experiences in the city. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these restaurants promise to deliver unforgettable meals that celebrate the rich culinary traditions of Japan.