Eastern food culture is very prominent in Florence, with Asian restaurants that have established themselves among both tourists and Florentines over the years.
In fact, in the city you can find some sushi restaurants with excellent reviews that are a must-visit for every lover of Japanese cuisine. I have selected the best for you and listed them here. Itadakimasu! which means “buon appetito” in Italian—essentially, Enjoy your meal!
Hoseki
Located at Via Il Prato 64/66r, Hoseki offers a cozy setting ideal for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends. This Japanese restaurant serves a wide array of authentic dishes including sushi, sashimi, tempura, and ramen, blending traditional flavors with innovative touches.
Hoseki is renowned for its commitment to freshness and quality, captivating both local and visiting food enthusiasts. Whether you’re a connoisseur of Japanese cuisine or a curious first-timer, Hoseki provides a genuine taste of Japan right in the heart of Florence.
Momoyama
Located in the vibrant San Frediano district at Borgo S. Frediano 10r, Momoyama is Florence’s first restaurant dedicated to Japanese cuisine since its opening in 1998. This spot blends traditional and fusion dishes, offering a unique experience of Japanese culinary arts.
Begin your visit at Momoyama’s cocktail bar before enjoying a selection of sushi, sashimi, and daily specials. Known for its quality and innovative approach, Momoyama invites you to explore authentic Japanese flavors in the heart of Florence.
Bentoro Firenze
Located at Via Capo di Mondo 14r, Bentoro specializes in authentic and meticulously crafted Japanese cuisine. The name itself reflects its dedication to quality: ‘Bento’ refers to boxed meals prepared with care, ‘Toro’ to Wagyu beef, and ‘Otoro’ to the prime cut of tuna.
Bentoro’s menu features a variety of traditional Japanese dishes made with high-quality ingredients. This restaurant is a destination for those seeking the essence of Japanese culinary traditions in Florence, offering flavors both delicate and profound.
KOKO Japanese Restaurant
Located in Piazza Francesco Ferrucci 4/5r, Koko is among the most renowned Japanese restaurants in Florence. Known for its creative culinary approach, Koko blends high-quality ingredients to produce sophisticated dishes that cater to refined palates.
The menu at Koko features a variety of options, from flavorful rolls to diverse gunkan preparations. A standout recommendation is the Sake Tataki—seared salmon encrusted with sesame seeds and drizzled with the chef’s special sauce. This dish is not only a delight for the palate but also a feast for the eyes.
Aji Tei
Aji Tei offers a quality all-you-can-eat experience in a bright and modern environment on Viale Spartaco Lavagnini 20A. This spot is a favorite among tourists and local workers alike, known for its extensive menu. Highlights include a variety of sushi rolls such as the Golden Tuna Roll and the Dragon Roll, along with other Japanese staples like tempura, udon, and gyoza.
For those with a sweet tooth, the green tea tiramisu is a must-try, offering a unique take on the traditional Italian dessert.
Ieie da Toshi
Ieie da Toshi, at Borgo Pinti 56, is led by Toshifumi Mitsubiki, who opened this restaurant to offer authentic Japanese flavors in Florence, specializing in sushi and sashimi. Across the street, his trattoria Accadì continues to serve Italian cuisine, showcasing his culinary versatility.
Il Cuore
Il Cuore, located at Via Romana 123r, immerses diners in the traditions of Japanese cuisine, having introduced Florence to its refined dishes five years ago. Here, every detail is meticulously crafted, combining high-quality ingredients with expert preparation to enhance traditional recipes.
Diners should not miss the fried chicken marinated in soy sauce, chirashi-zushi, and the Wagyu sirloin steak, each showcasing Il Cuore’s commitment to authenticity and flavor.
