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Can't-Miss in Ho Chi Minh City District 1! Top 10 Japanese Food for Japanese Travelers

2025.12.11   4,294PV

Ho Chi Minh City’s central area, District 1, is packed with Japanese restaurants and offers a reassuring area where travelers can stop by with ease. From classic sushi and sashimi, casual izakaya, authentic yakiniku, and carefully crafted ramen to luxurious omakase for special occasions, a wide range of Japanese cuisine is available.
In this feature, based on excellent location, cleanliness, and flavors that suit Japanese palates, we have picked 10 highly rated Japanese restaurants. Each spot lets you fully enjoy “the taste of Japan” while in Ho Chi Minh City and is popular with both travelers and residents.
We present the definitive District 1 Japanese food guide, a safe choice even for first-time visitors to Vietnam.


Sushi Aoyama  

A refined sushi experience in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

 


Quietly earning praise in central Ho Chi Minh City, Sushi Aoyama is a serene sushi restaurant with many Japanese regulars. The interior is simple and elegant, and you can relax over a meal while watching the careful craftsmanship across the counter.
The selection features air‑flown fresh seafood and seasonal ingredients, letting you clearly taste the rare “authentic Japanese flavor” in Ho Chi Minh City. In addition to the omakase course, there is a full range of à la carte sushi and snacks, making it perfect for business dinners and special occasions.

Recommended menu and price range
  • Omakase course (available for lunch and dinner): From 1,800,000 VND per person.

  • “Okonomi (OKONOMI)” course is nigiri‑focused, with casual plans of about 10–18 pieces.

  • The selection changes with the season and availability; sake pairings are available. Enjoy authentic Edomae sushi.

  • Quiet, calm space; private rooms available (up to 30 people).

  • Recommended for:

    • Travelers from Japan who want to enjoy authentic sushi in Ho Chi Minh City

    • Meals with friends, anniversaries and birthdays, etc.

    • Perfect for business entertaining and group gatherings

 
 Address 21C Ton Duc Thang, Quận 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam 
Phone number Zalo: 036 350 1210
Hours 11:00〜14:00 / 17:00〜22:00(Lunch & Dinner)※Open daily
Language support Japanese-owned and Japanese chef — Japanese language support available, so travelers from Japan can feel at ease.
Official Website/SNS Official site:https://www.aoyama-sushi.com
Menu: https://www.instagram.com
https://jp.gurutto-vietnam.com



SORA E Restaurant & Lounge

Close to the sky — Saigon’s night view × authentic Japanese cuisine, for an unforgettable moment.
 



SORA E is a luxury Japanese restaurant on the 51st floor of the Bitexco Financial Tower(ビテクスコタワー)in the heart of the city. From the windows you can take in sweeping views of Ho Chi Minh City’s nightscape—bright and filled with light by day, and sparkling city lights by night—for an elegant time. The interior is modern Japanese, with counter seating, tables, and private rooms to suit different needs—perfect for meals with friends, couples, anniversary dinners, and business entertaining.

 
Recommended dishes and price range

  • Sushi and sashimi use ingredients shipped directly from Japan or caught fresh in the morning, and the presentation is beautiful.

  • Yakitori, charcoal-grilled wagyu, etc. A wide range of Japanese dishes is offered. Yakitori&Beer Kitchen is also on-site.

  • Prices are slightly high, with about 300,000〜1,000,000 VND per dish as a guide.

  • With a calm atmosphere, it’s ideal for those who want to enjoy a leisurely lunch or dinner.


Recommended for:

  • Those who want to enjoy a meal while taking in the views of Ho Chi Minh City

  • Dates, anniversaries, night-view dinners

  • People who prefer upscale Japanese cuisine

👉 If you want to enjoy authentic Japanese food along with Ho Chi Minh City’s night view, 「SORA E」 is recommended.


 

 Address Floor 51, Bitexco Financial Tower, 36 Hồ Tùng Mậu, Quận 1, HCMC.
Phone number Reservation hotline: 028 3827 2372
Business hours 11:00~14:00 / 17:00~23:00 (Lunch/Dinner)(LO 21:30)
Language support There are many foreign customers, and as an upscale restaurant, English support is available. There’s a high chance they also have a Japanese menu.
Official Web/SNS Official website:soraesushi.com
https://jp.gurutto-vietnam.com
 


Futaba Japanese Noodle

Open late — Enjoy authentic tonkotsu and shrimp ramen in Saigon.
 

https://www.facebook.com/


Futaba is a popular ramen shop on Thái Văn Lung ( タイ・ヴァン・ルン )
 Street in District 1, an area also known as the "Japanese Quarter." The soups are authentic, carefully drawing out the richness of pork bone or the umami of shrimp, and are popular with both Westerners and Vietnamese. It's convenient for lunch during the day and for a drink with friends after work at night.
Inside, there are counter and table seats, creating a casual atmosphere where both solo diners and groups can feel at ease. Open late (near midnight), it's also recommended for those who want to enjoy Ho Chi Minh City's night scene.

 
Recommended menu and price range

Shrimp-broth ramen, tonkotsu ramen, etc. — Price range about 82,000 VND to 223,000 VND per bowl.
In the evening there are also snack options, so enjoying a bowl of ramen plus a drink for a relaxed night is part of the appeal.

 
 Address 8A/A3 Thái Văn Lung, Phường Bến Nghé, Quận 1, HCMC, Vietnam
Phone number 028 7300 4656
Opening hours 11:00~14:00 / 16:00~0:00 (lunch/dinner) (open from daytime until late at night on weekends)
Language support Popular with foreigners and travelers; English or simple English menus may be available.
Official Web/SNS Official website:https://jp.gurutto-vietnam.com
https://www.facebook.com/futabahcm


Izakaya Kamura   

In Ho Chi Minh City — a casual “izakaya” experience.
 

https://izakayakamura.vn/


Izakaya Kamura is an izakaya located in District 1, Thái Văn Lung ( タイ・ヴァン・ルン )
  where you can enjoy a rich menu including sushi, sashimi, grilled dishes, sake, and beer. With a wooden interior full of Japanese ambience and a casual, easygoing vibe, it is supported by locals, resident foreigners, and travelers from Japan.
Perfect for a drink after work, meals with friends, or small gatherings—ideal for casual “quick drinks/quick bites”.

Izakaya Kamura highlights (summary)

  • Enjoy sashimi, grilled fish, yakitori, tempura, etc., for about per dish 50,000〜300,000 VND

  • Sake and beer are available, perfect for dinner or drinking parties

  • Not ramen; recommended for those who want to enjoy Japanese-style izakaya dishes and drinks

  • A casual Japanese-style restaurant that’s easy to use for meals/drinks with friends and for solo visits alike

  • A place to leisurely savor a Japanese mood with Japanese snacks and drinks
     

 Address 8A/A14 Thái Văn Lung, Phường Bến Nghé, Quận 1, HCMC, Vietnam
Phone number +84 28 3535 7098
Business hours Weekdays: 11:00 ~ 00:00 /Fri~Sat: 11:00 ~ 02:00
Language support Many foreign guests; English support available. Japanese menu may be available.
Official Web/SNS Official site:izakayakamura.vn
https://jp.gurutto-vietnam.com
https://izakayakamura.vn/menu


ZEN Saigon  

In a tranquil setting — savor creative Japanese cuisine with a Vietnam × Japan twist.
 

https://www.facebook.com/


ZEN Saigon is a Japanese restaurant in District 1, offering a diverse menu that includes not only sushi and sashimi but also creative Japanese dishes. The interior is modern and calm, making it a comfortable space for dates, dinners with friends, and family meals. They also have a Facebook page where you can check the latest information and menu
Popular among Japanese residents in Vietnam and travelers, it offers a unique "Japan × Vietnam" experience that fuses the delicacy of Japanese cuisine with Vietnamese-style flexibility.


Highlights of ZEN Saigon (Summary)

  • Focus on sashimi, sushi rolls, and creative Japanese cuisine; prices are mid to slightly high range

  • A rich selection of sake, shochu, and soft drinks; ideal for a relaxed dinner

  • If you love Japanese cuisine, recommended for those who want to try Japanese×Vietnamese-style dishes

  • Great for dates or meals with friends, when you want to dine in a calm atmosphere

  • If you want to enjoy Japanese cuisine with a unique twist, spend a special moment at “ZEN Saigon”!
     

 Address 20 Lê Thánh Tôn, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Việt Nam
Phone number 028 3825 0782
Hours 07:00 ~ 22:00 (Daily)
Language support Many foreign guests; English available. Japanese menu may be available.
Official Web/SNS

https://www.facebook.com
https://jp.gurutto-vietnam.com



Omakase K   

Craftsmanship and seasonal flavors — an authentic omakase experience in Saigon.
 

https://yuzuomakase.com/vn


Omakase(Omakase) is a culinary journey grounded in “trust” in the chef and “discovery.” The term comes from the Japanese phrase “omakase shimasu,” meaning “to entrust the entire meal to the chef.” This style epitomizes Japan’s high-end dining culture, where each course served can be called a “symphony of flavors,” carefully layering the natural character of the ingredients with artisanal technique.
When seeking a special omakase experience, choosing the right restaurant is crucial.
 OMAKASE K strives to deliver a pinnacle dining experience, honing our craft every day to live up to our guests’ unwavering trust.
Chef Katsuhiro Kobayashi hails from Hokkaido, Japan. He trained at renowned restaurants in Susukino, Sapporo, and has over 30 years of experience in Japanese cuisine.
 In 2023, driven by the desire to bring “authentic Japanese sushi” to more people, he moved to Ho Chi Minh City and opened OMAKASE K.

Highlights of Omakase K (Summary)

  • The omakase courses are the focus, featuring sushi, sashimi, and grilled dishes with seasonal fish.
    It’s reputed that prices are a bit high but satisfaction is high.

  • Sake pairings are also available, letting you leisurely enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine.


Recommended for

  • Travelers from Japan who want to savor authentic omakase

  • Those who prefer a quiet, calm atmosphere for anniversaries or special dinners

  • For lovers of Japanese cuisine and sake, people who want to experience deep, complex flavors

👉 Enjoy master craftsmanship and seasonal flavors — Experience exquisite Japanese dining at “Omakase K”!
 

 Address 5A Nguyễn Siêu, Phường Bến Nghé, Quận 1, HCMC, Vietnam
Phone number 092 868 61 79
Hours 18:00 ~ 22:00 (daily)
Language support Foreign-friendly; high likelihood of Japanese staff and a Japanese-language menu
Official Web/SNS

http://omakasek.com/
https://jp.gurutto-vietnam.com



Izakaya Matsuki — A guide to an izakaya in Ho Chi Minh’s Japanese Town  

Casual and lively — Enjoy a Japanese izakaya experience in Ho Chi Minh.

 

https://www.facebook.com/ 


Izakaya Matsuki is located in an alley near Thái Văn Lung Street in District 1, in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. The cozy interior features warm wooden decor, creating the feel of a “neighborhood drinking spot” you might find on a Japanese street corner. The first floor is lively and bustling, while the second floor is a bit quieter, suitable for private or relaxed gatherings. At the entrance there is a grill station where skewers and charcoal-grilled dishes are cooked on the spot, offering a live-cooking vibe.

Recommended menu and price range
A wide selection covers Japanese classics like sashimi, yakitori (grilled items), sushi, ramen, and tempura — as well as small plates typical of an izakaya.
In particular, there are also some “curveball” items such as crab shell topped with cheese sauce, octopus with wasabi, and fish roe spaghetti. Unique dishes that make for good conversation starters.
The drink selection is also extensive. There are sweet options like umeshu, so you can enjoy it not only as a “meal” but also as a “drinking get-together.”
Prices are relatively reasonable, with roughly 300,000–500,000 VND per person as a guide. Casual and easy to use, perfect for groups and drinking parties.

 

Address 8A/A20 Thái Văn Lung, Quận 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam 
Phone number 0703 838 955
Opening hours 17:00 〜 4:30(open late into the night)
Language support Japanese support available — friendly for Japanese customers and travelers.
Payment Credit cards reportedly accepted (however, some reviews note that cash is more reliable during busy times)
Official Web/SNS  https://www.facebook.com
Menu: https://drive.google.com
https://jp.gurutto-vietnam.com

Note:The smoking area is on the first floor, and some say the smoke can be noticeable during times when people are smoking. For a quieter time, the second-floor seating is recommended.


Tsukiyomi Yakiniku — Enjoy authentic yakiniku in Ho Chi Minh City’s Japanese town

In Ho Chi Minh’s Japanese town — Fresh Wagyu × a relaxed yakiniku experience.
 

https://www.facebook.com/



Tsukiyomi Yakiniku is a yakiniku restaurant located along Thái Văn Lung Street in District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City, known as the Japanese town. As its name suggests, it focuses on Wagyu and Japanese-style yakiniku, offering “authentic Wagyu yakiniku” made with high-quality ingredients 100% imported from Japan.
The interior is cozy with a limited number of tables, creating a calm atmosphere. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy a leisurely meal and quietly savor meat and drinks.


Highlights of Tsukiyomi Yakiniku (Summary)

  • Proud of its authentic yakiniku centered on short rib and loin cuts made with Wagyu directly imported from Japan.
    With careful attention to doneness and sauces, you can enjoy the taste of Japanese-style yakiniku in Ho Chi Minh City.

  • Soy sauce- and miso-based sauces, and a full range of side dishes such as kimchi.
    Not only for yakiniku, but also satisfying as light snacks to go with drinks.

  • As it’s small with few seats, reservations for two or more are recommended.


Recommended for

  • Those who want to enjoy authentic Japanese-style yakiniku

  • With yakiniku and drinks, those who want to enjoy a casual get-together or dinner with friends and colleagues

  • From small parties to groups, those seeking a relaxed dining atmosphere

👉 If you want to enjoy wagyu yakiniku, head to “Tsukiyomi Yakiniku”! Reservations by phone or via Facebook.
 

Address 8A/G6 Thái Văn Lung, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam 
Phone number 0909-977-895 
Business hours 11:30〜14:00  - 16:30〜22:00 (Lunch / Dinner)
Monday: Closed (Last order 21:00)
Language support Information indicates Japanese and English are available
Payment Information indicates credit cards are accepted
Official Web/SNS

https://www.facebook.com/
https://sites.google.com/
https://jp.gurutto-vietnam.com 



Choi Oi Noodle — Authentic ramen in Saigon’s Japanese district

In Saigon’s “J-Town” — Piping-hot ramen and a Japanese-style space; enjoy a bowl until late at night.
 

https://www.facebook.com/



Choi Oi Noodle is a ramen shop in District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City, in the area known as the Japanese Quarter (around Lê Thánh Tôn Street).
The interior has a modern Japanese vibe, with an open kitchen visible over the counter and tables that work well for friends and couples. It’s easy to drop by and is popular with locals as well as Japanese and other foreigners.
The menu centers on ramen, with plenty of side dishes. Unpretentious yet highly satisfying “ramen + a quick drink/meal” is the hallmark here.

Choi Oi Noodle highlights (summary)

  • From spicy tantanmen-style to light shoyu-based bowls, there’s a wide variety of ramen to suit your taste.

  • Side dishes like gyoza and small plates are available, convenient for light meals or drinking gatherings.

  • Prices are relatively reasonable (around 180,000 VND and up), making it easy to use casually.


Recommended for

  • Travelers and residents from Japan who want to casually enjoy ramen + dinner

  • Those who want a bowl after a stroll or drinks, as it’s open until late at night

  • Ramen lovers who want to try authentic tonkotsu or the unique “Foam Ramen (Ramen Tonkotsu Cappuccino)”

  • Perfect for casual occasions such as solo trips or meals with friends, when you want something easygoing

👉 When you’re craving ramen, head to “Choi Oi Noodle”. Enjoy a casual bowl!
 

 Address 15B/25 Lê Thánh Tôn, P. Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Phone number 0906 633 656
Hours Approx. 11:00〜3:00 next day(open late/late-night ramen available)
Language support Japanese guidance is available for the shop name and menu, making it relatively approachable for Japanese travelers. Staff are also rated as friendly.
Official Web/SNS

https://www.facebook.com/
https://jp.gurutto-vietnam.com



Kappou Nishiyama — Authentic kappo omakase in Ho Chi Minh City

A cozy hideaway — a kappo experience in Ho Chi Minh City, savoring seasonal flavors one dish at a time.
 

https://www.facebook.com/

 


Kappou Nishiyama is an authentic kappo and omakase restaurant located on Pasteur Street (144/1 Pasteur) in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. A quiet and serene Japanese space — from the counter you can watch the chefs’ skills up close and enjoy each delicate dish made with seasonal seafood and Japanese ingredients.
The interior atmosphere is simple yet elegant. Service is attentive, and with Japanese and English support available, it’s easy for travelers and residents from Japan to visit with peace of mind.


Recommended points of Kappou Nishiyama (summary)

  • The focus is on an omakase course using seasonal seafood. Enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine, carefully prepared, including sashimi, sushi, grilled dishes, and warm plates.

  • Delicate Japanese dishes with beautiful presentation—such as scallops, abalone, seasonal sashimi, grilled fish, and seasonal obanzai—are highly praised.

  • Prices are on the higher side (about 2,000,000〜3,000,000 VND). Ideal for special occasions.


Recommended for

  • Travelers and residents who want to enjoy authentic kappo omakase in Ho Chi Minh City

  • Those who want to dine leisurely in a quiet and calm space for anniversaries, dates, or dinners with friends

  • Lovers of Japanese cuisine who value freshness and quality, and want to enjoy seasonal seafood and delicate flavors

👉 For a special night, head to “Kappou Nishiyama”. Enjoy seasonal Japanese cuisine in a tranquil setting!

 

Address 144/1 Pasteur, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Phone number 098 664 44 35
Business hours 11:30~14:00 / 17:30~22:00(Lunch / Dinner)
Language Support Japanese and English available — Japanese travelers can feel at ease.
Style Omakase/Kappo — Primarily counter seating, a calm atmosphere.
Payment Information indicates that card payments are accepted.
SNS / Web

Menu: https://drive.google.com/
https://www.facebook.com/
https://jp.gurutto-vietnam.com

 

 




 

 

Author of this article

Editor of Gurutto Vietnam