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Best Japanese Restaurants in Varsity Lakes

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16 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Etsu Izakaya restaurant
1. Etsu Izakaya
4.8
Exceptional(2012)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Mermaid Beach
Booked 56 times today
Etsu Izakaya, nestled in the vibrant heart of Mermaid Beach, epitomizes the quintessence of authentic Izakaya dining. Renowned for its dedication to fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Etsu offers an eclectic menu that encourages the joy of sharing food among friends. Patrons rave about the "incredible service" and the "freshest sashimi" they've ever tasted. The ambiance is enhanced by one of the largest collections of Japanese whisky, sake, and tap beers, perfect for pairing with meticulously crafted dishes. As one reviewer put it, Etsu is not just a meal; it's an "exceptional experience" with food that is "always excellent." With glowing testimonials and a reputation as a favorite on the Gold Coast, Etsu Izakaya stands out as a must-visit destination for an unforgettable Japanese culinary adventure.
A photo of Izakaya Midori restaurant
2. Izakaya Midori
4.9
Exceptional(158)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Varsity Lakes
Booked 6 times today
Nestled in the heart of Varsity Lakes, Reedy Creek, Izakaya Midori stands out as a trailblazer, offering a 100% plant-based Japanese dining experience that delights both vegans and non-vegans alike. The restaurant skillfully infuses authentic Japanese flavors into vegan dishes, making it a true gem on the Gold Coast. Diners rave about their experiences, highlighting dishes such as the "Midori ramen" and "Agedashi Tofu" as exemplary. One guest exclaimed, "It’s hands down the best Japanese food I’ve ever had." With its commitment to "hospitality by plants" and a 5-star Eat Safe rating, Izakaya Midori not only offers a meal but an invitation to explore Japanese cuisine through a fresh, plant-based lens. This commitment to quality and authenticity ensures a memorable dining experience for all.
A photo of Mamasan Kitchen and Bar restaurant
3. Mamasan Kitchen and Bar
4.7
Exceptional(2371)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Broadbeach
Booked 59 times today
Mamasan Kitchen and Bar in Broadbeach offers a delightful journey through the vibrant flavors of Asia, capturing the essence of Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Indonesian, and Thai cuisines. Praised for its authentic Asian dishes and exceptional service, Mamasan is a culinary gem that consistently impresses. Diners rave about the "fantastic flavours" and "outstanding" dining atmosphere, with special mentions of unique dishes like the Wagyu bao and soft shell crab bao. The restaurant's expert pairing of Asian-inspired cocktails and a thoughtful wine list further enhances the dining experience, making every meal memorable. Whether it's the cozy ambiance or the innovative menu, Mamasan stands out as a must-visit for authentic Asian cuisine lovers on the Gold Coast.
A photo of Roji Cat Beer Bar restaurant
4. Roji Cat Beer Bar
4.8
Exceptional(18)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Miami
Booked 5 times today
Roji Cat Beer Bar and Brewery brings the vibrant essence of Japan’s neon-lit streets home to Miami, Gold Coast. We bring the energy of Tokyo's hidden alleyways with a sleek, narrow layout, featuring neon lighting, electric dart boards, eclectic artworks, and a private karaoke room. At Roji Cat we offer 12 house-made beers on tap, including a standout Japanese rice lager, along with a rotating lineup of seasonal brews. The drinks menu also includes signature Japanese-inspired cocktails and an extensive sake selection. On the culinary side, the menu offers elevated Japanese street food, with highlights like karaage with house made sauces, and fresh tempura Moreton Bay bug burgers. Roji Cat is the perfect destination for those seeking a unique, Tokyo-inspired night out.
A photo of Oi Izakaya restaurant
5. Oi Izakaya
4.5
Awesome(673)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Burleigh Heads
Booked 13 times today
Oi Izakaya in Burleigh Heads offers an authentic slice of Japan with its vibrant Izakaya-style dining. This bustling spot delights with a menu that boasts both cold dishes like fresh sushi and sashimi, and hot grilled favorites. Guests rave about the quality and variety, with one patron noting it's "like being in Tokyo." Known for its fantastic service and generous portions, Oi Izakaya is celebrated for delivering an authentic Japanese experience. The restaurant also features a special selection of Japanese whiskies and bespoke cocktails, enhancing the dining experience. As locals and visitors alike put it, the food is consistently "superb" and the atmosphere "always wonderful."
A photo of Masu Izakaya restaurant
6. Masu Izakaya
4.6
Exceptional(40)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Burleigh Heads
Booked 13 times today
MASU IZAKAYA- is a contemporary Japanese restaurant in an izakaya setting with sushi bar. It focuses on using local and Japanese ingredients but using Japanese techniques, flavours and presentation. The restaurant celebrates shared dining experience from sushi, sashimi, to your favourite grilled dishes, tempura and with a wide selection of Japanese drinks such as sake, shochu, beers and whiskies. Japanese inspired cocktails and some local and Japanese craft beers are also showcased.
A photo of Tayta Nikkei restaurant
7. Tayta Nikkei
4.8
Exceptional(165)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Mermaid Beach
Booked 8 times today
Tayta Nikkei at Mermaid Beach is a culinary gem that brilliantly marries Japanese precision with Peruvian zest, creating an unforgettable Nikkei cuisine experience. Awarded as the best fusion by AFGF, Tayta Nikkei stands out for its use of the freshest produce and highest grade fresh fish. Visitors rave about the Kingfish Tiradito and the creatively crafted cocktails, particularly the Hibiscus Pisco Sour. Diners consistently praise the "phenomenal food" and "funky vibe," with one reviewer noting, "food phenomenal, vibe is funky and always a great service." Another adds, "every dish was creative and perfectly balanced." Tayta Nikkei is not just a meal; it's a vibrant celebration of cross-cultural culinary artistry on the Gold Coast.
A photo of Charcoal Charcoal Yakitori restaurant
8. Charcoal Charcoal Yakitori
4.4
Awesome(23)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Robina
Booked 2 times today
At Charcoal Charcoal Yakitori in Robina, the essence of authentic grill cuisine is elevated to new heights with their masterful use of charcoal grilling techniques. The restaurant's commitment to quality shines through in their selection of premium ingredients like M8–9 Wagyu beef and succulent Japanese scallops, each infused with a distinctive smoky aroma that can only be achieved through charcoal grilling. Praised for creating "an unforgettable culinary experience," diners rave about the "delicious" and "very very good quality meat" as well as the warmly inviting atmosphere. This gem is consistently recommended for its "amazing food and environment," making it a must-visit for grill enthusiasts seeking a memorable dining experience.
A photo of Blessing of the Sun restaurant
9. Blessing of the Sun
5.0
Exceptional(7)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Mermaid Beach
Blessing of the Sun in Mermaid Beach is a culinary jewel, offering a unique twist on Creative Japanese cuisine that is sure to delight any palate. Chef Kohta masterfully blends traditional Japanese techniques with global influences, creating standout dishes like the Japanese Curry Arancini and Mushroom & Truffle Gnocchi. Patrons rave about the "delightful journey of flavors" and the high-quality, seasonal ingredients. With its intimate yet vibrant space, this restaurant provides not just a meal, but a memorable dining experience. As one review perfectly sums it up, "This charming little gem... is a must-visit for anyone looking to savor exceptional food crafted with love.” Make sure to visit Blessing of the Sun for an innovative take on Japanese cuisine that you won't find anywhere else.
A photo of Happy Endings restaurant
10. Happy Endings
3.8
Excellent(17)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Broadbeach
Happy Endings is Broadbeach’s new Japanese-inspired izakaya hiding unsuspectingly above bustling laneway bar and sister venue, Fig + Frankies. While specialising in cocktails, Happy Endings also boasts a late-night snack menu, so you won’t go hungry. Start off with small Japanese-inspired nibbles like hibachi roasted corn and zangi chicken, yakitori and sashimi before moving on to the larger stars. The wagyu don, katsu sando and Korean cauliflower are all home runs with out-of-the-park flavours.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Michelle
    London •12 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    We enjoyed a wonderful anniversary dinner. Each dish was exceptional and it was great to be able to order pieces like the oysters and scallops. The quality and flavours of each dish were amazing, highlights the Lamb ribs and Wok Beef and we had and awesome welcome and service by Fay. Cant wait to return.
    More info
    Mamasan Kitchen and BarPrice: Expensive• Asian• Broadbeach
    •
    4.7
  • Bronwen
    Sydney •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    We were on the Gold Coast on holidays and looking for a special place for a family birthday celebration. We had a rough day and this really picked us all up. A lovely experience and both teenage boys said it was the best restaurant we had been to. Would definitely go back.
    More info
    Etsu IzakayaPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Mermaid Beach
    •
    4.8
  • Jamie
    Gold Coast •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Absolutely love this place. Fourth time being there and always keen to go back. Great staff, amazing food. Whether you're vegan or not, the food is incredible and there's really something for everyone.
    More info
    Izakaya MidoriPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Varsity Lakes
    •
    4.9
  • Liz
    Gold Coast •1 review
    4.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Mixed shared plates with many options. An interesting collection of dishes. They didn't disappoint but didn't bowl me over with that I must return feeling. The wagyu sando was tasty but not attended to in the meticulous Japanese way.
    More info
    Oi IzakayaPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Burleigh Heads
    •
    4.5
  • Valentina
    Gold Coast •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 19 Dec 2024
    The bar is amazing and the staff is lovely. Great place to go to have some beers and play darts.
    More info
    Roji Cat Beer BarPrice: Moderate• Brewery• Miami
    •
    4.8

Discover best Japanese restaurants in Varsity Lakes

Discover the essence of Japanese cuisine in the heart of Varsity Lakes on the Gold Coast, where a selection of restaurants offers a delightful array of traditional and contemporary Japanese dishes. Each establishment is dedicated to delivering authentic flavors, often using locally sourced ingredients to create sushi, sashimi, ramen, and other specialties that cater to various tastes and preferences. The dining scene in this area is vibrant and diverse, featuring eateries that range from casual spots to upscale dining experiences, all infused with the unique culinary traditions of Japan. The restaurants in Varsity Lakes pride themselves on their commitment to quality and authenticity, ensuring that each meal is not only delicious but also a true representation of Japanese culinary arts. Whether you're a local or a visitor, these eateries provide a perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience, from intimate dinners to social gatherings. The focus on customer satisfaction and high standards of food safety further enhances the dining experience, making each visit a safe and enjoyable endeavor. For those intrigued by Japanese cuisine or seeking a genuine taste of Japan in the Gold Coast, Varsity Lakes offers an exceptional culinary journey that promises to satisfy your cravings and introduce you to the rich flavors and unique dishes of Japan.

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